Lean Cuisine

Lean Cuisine is a brand of frozen meals and entrees in the United States and Canada that was created in 1981. It is produced by Nestlé, a multinational food and drink processing conglomerate. Lean Cuisine meals are marketed as a healthier alternative to traditional frozen meals, with a focus on low-calorie, low-fat, and nutritionally balanced options.

History

Lean Cuisine was introduced by Stouffer's, a subsidiary of Nestlé, in 1981. The brand was developed in response to the growing demand for healthier frozen meal options. Initially, Lean Cuisine offered ten different meals, which were designed to be low in calories and fat while providing balanced nutrition. Over the years, the product line has expanded to include a wide variety of entrees, including pasta, pizza, Asian cuisine, and Mexican cuisine.

Product Line

Lean Cuisine offers several product lines to cater to different dietary preferences and needs:

• Favorites: Classic dishes such as macaroni and cheese, lasagna, and chicken alfredo.
• Comfort: Hearty meals like meatloaf, fried chicken, and mashed potatoes.
• Marketplace: Trendy and globally inspired dishes, including gluten-free and organic options.
• Features: Meals with specific health benefits, such as high-protein, low-carb, and low-sodium options.

Nutritional Information

Lean Cuisine meals are designed to be lower in calories and fat compared to traditional frozen meals. Most entrees contain between 200 and 400 calories, with a focus on balanced nutrition. The meals typically include a source of protein, vegetables, and a carbohydrate. Lean Cuisine also offers options for those with specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free, vegetarian, and low-sodium meals.

Marketing and Reception

Lean Cuisine has been marketed as a convenient and healthy meal option for busy individuals. The brand has used various marketing strategies over the years, including television commercials, print advertisements, and social media campaigns. Lean Cuisine has received positive reviews for its taste and convenience, although some critics have noted that the portion sizes can be small and the sodium content can be high in some meals.

Competitors

Lean Cuisine competes with other brands in the frozen meal market, including Healthy Choice, Smart Ones, and Amy's Kitchen. These brands also offer healthier frozen meal options and cater to various dietary preferences.

See Also

• Frozen food
• Nestlé
• Healthy Choice
• Smart Ones
• Amy's Kitchen