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Americana, the American-inspired bakery brand from Lantmännen Unibake UK, has expanded its foodservice portfolio with the launch of the Gourmet Black & White Seeded Burger Bun, designed to help operators capitalise on demand for premium burger experiences.

The new 4-inch brioche-style bun has been developed for quick-service restaurants, pubs and restaurants, combining a premium glaze with black and white sesame seeds to create a distinctive appearance while delivering the soft texture associated with brioche.

According to Lantmännen Unibake UK, the launch responds to continued growth in the UK burger category, with operators increasingly seeking menu innovations that justify premium pricing without increasing kitchen complexity.

The company cited its own consumer research, which found that more than half (52%) of respondents described the bun as "visually appealing" on first impression, while 32% associated it with high quality and 31% with a premium or gourmet offering. The research also found that, when shown a range of burger buns, 36% of consumers consistently selected the black and white seeded brioche over classic sesame, plain brioche and glazed alternatives.

Holly Holt, brand manager at Lantmännen Unibake UK, said: "Consumers eat with their eyes and first impressions sell burgers. Consumers are looking for eating experiences that feel special and are worth the spend, and the new Gourmet Black & White Seeded Bun gives operators that wow factor straight from the box, with no extra prep, skill or cost in the kitchen. For busy kitchens under pressure on margins, it is a simple way to elevate a burger and command a premium price whilst meeting the growing demand for high-quality burger experience."

The bun is fully baked, pre-sliced and supplied frozen, thawing in around one hour before service. Lantmännen Unibake UK said the format helps operators reduce labour requirements and minimise food waste by thawing stock as required.

Suitable for a broad range of menus, the Gourmet Black & White Seeded Burger Bun is vegan, Halal-certified and compliant with the Food Standards Agency's 2024 salt guidelines.

The launch is the first in a series of new product developments planned for the Americana brand this year as Lantmännen Unibake UK continues to expand its premium foodservice bakery offering.