LISLE, Ill. – Kretschmar Master's Cut, a line of super-premium bulk deli items, has been launched nationally at deli counters by Kretschmar Premium Deli Meats & Cheeses – under Smithfield Foods’ John Morrell Food Group umbrella. Proteins include turkey, ham and chicken that use the highest quality, cleanest ingredients, the company relays.

Kretschmar Master's Cut Deli Meats’ sweet, smoky, savory and robust flavors were inspired by consumer culinary trends. Flavors include Sweet Smoked Ham, Black Pepper and Jalapeño Ham, Sweet Molasses Ham, Mesquite and Bourbon Turkey Breast, Santa Fe Turkey Breast, Sun Dried Tomato Turkey Breast, Cajun Style Turkey Breast, Pastrami Seasoned Turkey Breast and Chipotle Barbeque Chicken.


Products in this new line are gluten free plus they contain no added MSG, added nitrites or nitrates or added hormones. Each product also meets criteria for a heart-healthy food, as certified by the American Heart Association.

"We are extremely excited about the launch of Kretschmar Master's Cut," said Michael Sargent, brand manager for Kretschmar. "Its unique flavors and unparalleled quality have raised the bar for premium deli meats."

Kretschmar enlisted Certified Master Chef Brian Beland as a brand ambassador for the product launch. He is the executive chef and director of food and beverage at the Country Club of Detroit and is also a chef instructor at Schoolcraft College in Michigan. Chef Beland, as a brand ambassador, created five original recipes using Kretschmar Master's Cut and plans to make appearances on behalf of Kretschmar throughout the year at trade shows, public relations events and consumer events. Kretschmar will also execute a sweepstakes in which consumers can enter for a chance to win a trip for two to The Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley where Chef Beland will give them a personal cooking tutorial.

"I'm thrilled to share with everyone Kretschmar's newest product line, Master's Cut," Beland said. "Its wide array of flavors and quality ingredients provide tons of possibilities in the kitchen. I've really enjoyed cooking with the meats and developing new recipes for Kretschmar. I know that consumers will appreciate its versatility and top-notch taste in their recipes as well."
 
Kretschmar Premium Deli Meats & Cheeses began operating in 1883. Its hams are made with a unique hardwood smoking process. “Kretschmar poultry and beef are hand-trimmed using the finest cuts. Our full line of off-the-bone deli meats are delicately sliced from the leanest, most tender cuts. And our premium Wisconsin cheeses repeatedly win in competitions world-wide,” the company said in a press release.

For more information, log onto www.kretschmardeli.com or visit Facebook at Facebook.com/Kretschmardeli.