Although Melissa’s World Variety has been a member of the Southeast Produce Council for five years, this year will be its first time exhibiting. And the company is excited about showcasing its newest items at the event.

Robert Schueller, director of public relations for the Los Angeles-based company, said the new items include “Melissa’s” “CLEAN SNAX,” Hollandaise Sauce, Steamed Artichoke Hearts, Roasted Artichoke Hearts, Steamed Garbanzo beans and Steamed French Country Style Beets.

‘Melissa’s’ Roasted Brussels Sprouts.“’CLEAN SNAX’ come in four tasty mixes: Almond, Pumpkin Seed, Coconut and Cranberry,” said Schueller. “Each convenient clamshell package has approximately 30 lightly salted bite-sized squares that also contain nutrient-packed chia and flaxseed, sweetened with honey. It satisfies both sweet and salty cravings in deliciously healthy nuggets of natural flavors, making it the perfect snack for kids and adults alike.”

Melissa’s pre-made Hollandaise Sauce is an iconic emulsified buttery-smooth sauce. The sauce, which has always required a good deal of culinary experience to master, can now be enjoyed by home cooks with little experience.

“Our sauce contains only natural ingredients, tastes as good as home-made, and comes in a convenient one-serving packet,” said Schueller. “Serve it hot on vegetables, especially asparagus. It is also delicious on fish, and it’s a primary component in Eggs Benedict.”

The leaves of Melissa’s Steamed Artichoke Hearts have been removed, leaving just the tasty heart of the vegetable. Already steamed, the ready-to-eat item is vacuum-sealed to insure a just-picked flavor and extended shelf-life.

Melissa’s pre-roasted Brussels sprouts are ready to eat with just a quick heat-up. The convenient eight-ounce package has a minimum shelf of 14 days.

“Like Melissa’s peeled and steamed baby beets, Melissa’s French Country-Style Red Beets is another flavor-added option that is also the perfect solution to the messy preparation associated with this iconic root vegetable,” said Schueller.

“Quartered, peeled, steamed, laced with shallots, herbs and delicate balsamic vinaigrette, these beets are ready-to-eat right out of the package,” he added.

Melissa’s pre-roasted “Dutch Yellow” Potatoes are ready with just a quick heat-up in the microwave. Roasted with a little olive oil, salt and pepper, this convenient 12-ounce package is a complete side dish.

Melissa’s Peeled & Steamed Garbanzo Beans eliminate the pre-soaking and long cooking time to prepare them from scratch. Vacuum sealed, they contain no preservatives.

“And they have a two-month shelf-life,” Schueller pointed out. “Consumers can enjoy them hot or cold right out of the package and use them in countless recipes.”

The company’s southeast team of sales representatives will be greeting and meeting with customers at booth No. 519 at this Southern Exposure event.