TOAST-IT offers three frozen arepas styles (original, chia flaxseed and cassava) and the freezer-to-toaster arepas inspired by a family recipe are described as "basically what would happen if a bagel and a tortilla had a baby" according to Marina Corina “Coco” Viete Cabezas. These naturally simple, gluten-free and vegan arepas are free from added sugars and preservatives, and their minimal ingredients tick off many boxes for ingredient-conscious consumers in the United States.
The brand made the shift from being an arepa brand to a guilt-free Latin American brand so that it can venture beyond arepas and potentially expand beyond the frozen category. Currently, the brand also offers other frozen appetizers such as pandebono bites and plantain buñuelos.
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Minimal-ingredient Arepas
- TOAST-IT's frozen arepas, made with minimal ingredients, offer a guilt-free option for consumers looking for simple and clean foods.
- Ingredient-conscious Consumers
- The rise in ingredient-conscious consumers in the United States presents an opportunity for brands like TOAST-IT to cater to their needs with gluten-free and vegan options.
- Expansion Beyond Frozen Category
- TOAST-IT's shift from being an arepa brand to a guilt-free Latin American brand allows for potential expansion beyond the frozen category, opening up new market opportunities.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Frozen Foods
- TOAST-IT's range of frozen arepas and appetizers tap into the growing demand for convenient and healthy frozen food options.
- Plant-based
- With their vegan and gluten-free arepas, TOAST-IT caters to the plant-based market, which is experiencing significant growth and offers opportunities for innovative products.
- Latin American Cuisine
- TOAST-IT's guilt-free Latin American brand can capitalize on the popularity of Latin American cuisine and appeal to consumers looking for authentic and healthier options.
