Spud pack full of appeal

By Paul Dunlop
THE humble spud just got zapped.
Nar Nar Goon company Red Gem Growers and Packers has released a new potato product de-signed to please our busy lifestyles.
Pop a six-pack of locally-grown spuds into the microwave and ‘I’m hungry’ becomes ‘Let’s eat’ in next to no time.
They don’t even need to be unwrapped.
Packed on a purpose-designed tray and wrapped in a special microwave-proof film, the spud pack is intended to combine a healthy meal with modern convenience.
Red Gem general manager Robert Cerchiaro said it could revolutionise cooking methods.
“We are constantly being asked by the consumer for easier preparation methods for the potato, so our team has come up with what we think is a winner, saving busy families and individuals valuable time in the kitchen.”
A marketing campaign promoting the spud pack urges shoppers to forget the peeling and hassles of preparation.
‘Add your favourite toppings! Try sour cream and chives or be tempted with shredded ham with tasty cheese with a dollop of sour cream. The toppings are endless.’
Red Gem business manager Alan Hansson said the spud packs were available in more than 50 Safeway supermarkets around Victoria.
The initiative was a “bit of fun”, he said, but there was a serious, business-like, side as well.
“It’s for the post 4pm shopper who walks into the supermarket and says ‘Right, what’s for dinner tonight?’ They can grab their fish, chicken or other meat and get something quick, easy and nutritious to go with it.
“We’re doing the work for the shopper so they don’t have to do anything.”
The spud pack will compete with packaged pasta and sauce, oven-baked chips and other convenience-based side dishes for a place on our plates.
A 500 gram six-pack of washed Nadine potatoes costs $1.98.