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Israeli agrifood company Kad Bnei Darom has unveiled Cuca Herb Pops, a new flash-frozen herb format designed to combine convenience, sustainability and portion control for both retail and foodservice markets.
Developed in collaboration with innovation firm Practical Innovation, the frozen herb spheres are positioned as an alternative to traditional frozen herb trays and individually wrapped portions. Each 15g herb pop is packaged in flexible pouches without rigid plastic trays, helping reduce packaging waste and freezer space requirements.
Kad Bnei Darom said the format was created to address growing consumer and foodservice demand for time-saving, environmentally conscious cooking solutions while maintaining the quality and freshness of herbs.
The company uses Individually Quick Frozen (IQF) technology to preserve flavour, aroma, texture and nutritional value. According to the company, the frozen herb spheres do not stick together inside the pouch, allowing users to remove individual portions easily while minimising thawing and waste.
The herb pops are currently available in six varieties: garlic, onion, parsley, cilantro, dill and basil. The products are made with 100% natural ingredients and contain no additives or artificial ingredients.
David Ben-Ze’ev, CEO of Kad Bnei Darom, said: “We have been in the business of growing fresh produce and creating artisan products for more than 50 years. While honouring our traditional roots, Cuca Pops mark Kad’s expanding foothold in food innovation, bringing vibrancy, ease and environmental consciousness into every kitchen. Our product is creating a new category in the global fresh herbs market."
Kad operates a near fully vertically integrated production model, sourcing herbs from partner farmers in Israel’s Arava desert. The herbs are frozen close to harvest without intermediary packaging, helping lock in “just-picked” freshness and reduce waste across the supply chain.
The launch comes as demand for convenient home cooking solutions continues to rise globally. According to Innova Market Insights, consumers are increasingly preparing meals at home while seeking products that simplify preparation without sacrificing quality or sustainability.
Tal Leizer, CEO of Practical Innovation, said: “These individual, quick-use frozen herb balls were crafted to respond to demands for top quality natural ingredients that provide convenience, precision and flexibility while solving the overuse of plastic packaging and food waste."
The product range is suitable for both retail and foodservice channels and is available for private label partnerships internationally.
The company indicated that the Cuca Herb Pops are the first launch in a broader pipeline of advanced frozen herb solutions aimed at modern kitchens and evolving consumer cooking habits.
