Organic meats processor Applegate, Bridgewater, N.J., says new Applegate HALF TIME, is the first lunch kit featuring natural and organic ingredients.

Available nationwide at food retailers such as Target, BJ’s and Safeway, Applegate HALF TIME combines three of the leading brands in the natural and organic channel: Applegate (natural and organic meats and cheeses), Stonyfield (organic yogurt) and Annie’s (organic fruit snacks and crackers) into one convenient kit.

“Our survey showed that parents love the convenience of pre–packed lunch kits, but not necessarily the ingredients,” says Neil Leinwand, Applegate senior vice president of marketing.

He says 88% of parents surveyed said they thought pre–packed lunch kits were convenient, while 79% said they were concerned about the nitrates, preservatives and artificial ingredients in those kits.

“With HALF TIME, parents don’t have to compromise between convenience and quality because we’re combining the three trusted natural and organic brands that are already in their refrigerators and pantries,” says Leinwand.

Applegate HALF TIME comes in three varieties: Turkey & Cheese, Ham & Cheese, and Bologna & Cheese. HALF TIME has a suggested retail price of $4.99, and all kits include: Applegate Naturals meats, which have no artificial ingredients or preservatives and are antibiotic free; Applegate American cheese; made with no added hormones; Stonyfield YoKids Squeezers Strawberry Organic Lowfat Yogurt, and Annie’s Homegrown Buttery Rich Crackers.