PG Web Extra: Bimbo Launches Bread Brand Contests

Bimbo Bakeries USA's Arnold, Brownberry and Orowheat bread brands have launched the inaugural America's Better Sandwich Contest to find recipes that meet consumer needs for flavor and nutrition.

From July 23 to Aug. 22, entrants could submit as many as two recipes, using the brands' Whole Grain Sliced Breads or Sandwich Thins Rolls, in the following categories:

• Creative Classic: nutritious versions of tried-and-true sandwich creations
• Stealthily Simple: flavorful sandwiches with five or fewer ingredients.
• Fueling Good: sandwiches incorporating ingredients packed with protein and healthful fats, such as eggs and nut butters
• Meatless Marvel: sandwiches containing plant proteins like soy, tofu and hummus, as well as vegetables, fruits, nuts or cheeses

"Health authorities recommend adults consume three to five servings or more of whole grains every day. … [W]e believe there is no better way to get in a serving of whole grains than with a scrumptious sandwich made with our breads," notes Abby Prior, director of marketing for the brands. "With the launch of America’s Better Sandwich Contest, [we hope] to help Americans find nutritious and delicious ways to consume the daily recommendation of 48 grams of whole grains."

All eligible recipes will be judged by a panel of experts for their nutrition, creativity and ease of preparation. The top three finalists from each category will be also posted online for public voting to help determine category and grand-prize winners. In November, Horsham, Pa.-based Bimbo will reveal the highest-scoring recipes in each category, awarding each one $5,000. The highest-scoring submission overall will receive the $25,000 grand prize and the right to call itself "America's Better Sandwich."

Eat Well, Play Happy Contest

In other Bimbo contest news, the company's Sara Lee Bread, Nature's Harvest and Bimbo Bread brands have rolled out the Eat Well, Play Happy Contest, which will award one winner a new $50,000 playground for his or her school.

"Recess and time outdoors are great sources of exercise and wellness, and critical in keeping kids happy and healthy," observes Marlene Sidhu, Sara Lee brand manager. "We focus daily on the importance of eating healthy and great nutrition, but we also wanted to invest in the effort to encourage kids follow their natural instinct to get outside and get moving!"

Entrants 18 years and older had to write an essay of 200 or fewer words on why their school is in need of a new playground. Along with the school playground, the winner will receive a backyard playground worth $3,000. Contestants also have a chance to win such prizes as a bike and helmet, golf sets, and skateboards. The seven-week contest runs through Friday, Sept. 19.