Here at Team YAMAS!, we know that the dairy category is changing. It’s no longer just about the basics; it’s about experience, texture, and that feeling of being transported to a warmer climate with a single bite. We are thrilled to introduce our brand-new frozen range: YAMAS! Halloumi Popcorn, Chilli Halloumi Bites, and Garlic & Herb Halloumi Bites.
While we are famous for our authentic Greek and Cypriot cheeses, we understand that today’s eating out dynamic is changing. Kitchens need convenience, but consumers refuse to compromise on quality. That’s why we’ve taken authentic PDO Halloumi and wrapped it in perfectly crisp coatings to create the ultimate heat-and-eat solution.
The Insight: What Consumers Are Actually Craving
We know that consumers are becoming increasingly savvy about what they purchase, both in and out of home. According to recent data from Lumina Intelligence [1], Taste/Flavour is the absolute number one factor consumers use to evaluate quality, with 86% citing it as their top priority. Interestingly, ‘Price’ comes in second at 72%, proving that while value matters, flavour still rules the roost.
But there is a new player in the decision-making process: Texture. The Grocer reports that it is increasingly becoming a key differentiator, with consumers looking for more than just taste [2]. They want that satisfying crunch followed by a soft, chewy centre.
Furthermore, we are seeing a significant shift regarding health perception. The backlash against Ultra Processed Food (UPF) is real in the UK. In fact, 51% of consumers now avoid some or all UPF as much as possible, and 56% view UPF less favourably than they used to. [3]
This presents a massive opportunity as reported by Lumina Intelligence. Consumers are willing to pay more – 72% of them, to be exact – for higher quality ingredients [4]. They are seeking health-led opportunities around minimal processing. This is where YAMAS! steps in. By using authentic PDO Halloumi as our core ingredient, we provide that premium provenance consumers trust, in a format that fits their evolving demands.
Meet the New Range: Golden, Crispy, and Authentic
Our new frozen line-up is designed to offer versatility across the menu, from starters and sharers to sides and salad toppers. Each product is supplied frozen for maximum shelf life and are cooked from frozen in minutes for kitchen efficiency.
YAMAS! Halloumi Popcorn
Snackification is a trend that isn’t going away. Our Halloumi Popcorn consists of little bites with loud flavour. We’ve taken authentic PDO Halloumi and wrapped it in a perfectly crisp coating. These are designed to be popped, dunked, and devoured.
They are the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether used as a mezze or tapas option, or simply as a source of protein to toss onto a salad, they deliver a golden finish and that perfect soft and chewy centre.
YAMAS! Chilli Halloumi Bites
For those seeking a bit of heat, these vibrant little bites bring a kick of Mediterranean warmth to the table. We’ve infused authentic PDO halloumi with a kick of chilli flavour.
The texture here is paramount; the coating gives a satisfying crunch that leads to a lovely, soft halloumi centre. These deliver tongue-tingling tastiness with a fiery kick. They are a perfect premium heat-and-eat option and work brilliantly as a spicy side, tempting upsell or as an extravagant burger topper.
YAMAS! Garlic & Herb Halloumi Bites
This is a delish flavour combination that is always a hit. We’ve combined our authentic cheese with a fragrant garlic and herb blend.
Encased in a crunchy crust, they deliver that signature halloumi ‘squeak’ every time. The phrase ‘Golden, garlicky, gone in seconds’ sums them up perfectly. These are an accessible, high-quality starter, side, or showstopping main that brings sunshine and flavour to any menu.
Unlocking Menu Potential: From Sunrise to Sunset
We know your operators need ingredients that work as hard as they do. That’s why we’ve designed this range for maximum versatile day-part usage. Whether it’s boosting a brunch menu or elevating a bar snack offering, these bites deliver consistent quality and high perceived value around the clock.
Here are a few winning ideas to get started:
- Loaded Fries: Top fries with Halloumi Popcorn, YAMAS! Greek Feta, and fragrant oregano for a delicious sharing plate.
- The Salad Upgrade: Move over croutons. A Caesar Salad with Garlic & Herb Halloumi Bites or a Salt & Pepper Popcorn Halloumi Salad adds texture, protein, and warmth to cold dishes.
- The Modern Burger: Add texture & excitement to a Chicken Burger with Chilli Halloumi Bites skewered atop! It adds a premium touch and a spicy kick without needing separate sauces.
- Winter Warmers: This range isn’t just for summer. Suggest Roasted Tomato & Pepper Pasta with Popcorn Halloumi or use them as toppers for Spiced Pumpkin Soup.
- Grazing Boards: Liven up sharing boards with a Middle Eastern Grazing Board with Chilli Halloumi Bites or add a wider Mediterranean vibe to a traditional Italian Grazing Board, making for a visually stunning and high-value sharer.
The Operational Edge
For the trade, it’s not just about how good it tastes. It’s also about how it performs in the rigours of busy kitchens.
We know that great taste and fair price are how consumers determine good value for money, and our range hits that sweet spot. By utilising frozen storage, operators can minimise waste and manage portion control effortlessly. The cook times are rapid – under 3 minutes in a deep fryer – meaning tickets don’t back up during service. Plus, they are suitable for vegetarians, widening the menu appeal instantly.
We even offer a Branded Serve Kit which includes branded pots, napkins, and table talkers. This is the perfect way to engage with the product for ‘Food on the Go’ or ‘Bar Snacks & Beer Munch’ occasions.
Time to Chat Cheese?
We are passionate about delivering delicious dairy products from one of the most rich and beautiful parts of the world. With this new coated range, we are making it easier than ever for your customers to access authentic Mediterranean sunshine.
If you’re interested and would like more information, specification sheets, or samples, just get in touch with your account manager!
