FOODSERVICE BUYER: DELI.

The article offers information on various aspects of purchasing, new technology for storing and marketing of deli products and services in the U.S. The deli category covers cured sausage products, smoked meats and sliced cheeses for making sandwiches, entree salads, and catering platters. Pre-sliced and shaved deli meats now have improved texture, flavor and quality. Recent advances in processing and packaging address perishability and safety of food products. Guidelines that a deli should keep in mind while handling hams and turkeys include reading ingredient list and checking moisture. Executive chef, David Locke, says that food products should be purchased reliable people. Natural trends in deli meat, freshness of meats, and safe handling guidelines are also discussed.