NEW YORK, NY–(MARKET WIRE)–Oct 13, 2008 — There’s a battle emerging around the American dinner table as new solutions for prepared meals arise. Addicted to restaurant-quality fare, consumers are seeking meals that also meet their demands for convenience, flavor and variety, according to Prepared Meal Solutions: Culinary Trend Mapping Report from the Center for Culinary Development (CCD) and Packaged Facts. The report outlines this new competitive landscape and offers strategic solutions for meal marketers.

Chef-Inspired Meals. Following in the footsteps of successful chain restaurant Curbside Pickup, offering signature dishes on the fly to harried diners, fine-dining chefs, like Chicago’s Charlie Trotter, are jumping into the prepared meal ring with upscale versions of meals consumers cook at home. Neighborhood Takeout Boutiques counter with easily accessible, bistro-quality comfort food with a local feel and rotating menus.

Prepared Meal Marketers Battle for Share of Takeout Dollars