Columbus Craft Meats finds consumers demanding versatile deli meats
Columbus Craft Meats brand identifies an opportunity to bring elevated pepperoni to the deli aisle.

Columbus Uncured Pepperoni on sandwiches
Photos courtesy of Columbus Craft Meats
Salumi brand Columbus Craft Meats is launching its first standalone pepperoni deli product: Columbus Uncured Pepperoni. A brand rooted in Italian American tradition, the Columbus brand recognized an opportunity to bring elevated pepperoni to the deli aisle, crafted for consumers craving premium flavor and versatility.
Columbus Uncured Pepperoni"The deli pepperoni category has seen significant growth, with $108 million in retail sales and a 5.5% increase year-over-year," said Katie Yan, brand manager for Columbus Craft Meats. According to Toluna Sliced Pepperoni Custom Research, "Nearly 70% of consumers are looking for new flavors and sizes in deli pepperoni. This product meets that demand with premium quality and versatility."
Columbus Uncured Pepperoni is crafted with whole cuts of hand-trimmed pork and seasoned with cracked fennel and paprika, delivering a spicy and smoky flavor profile. Uncured pepperoni is slow-aged and never heat-treated, keeping with the brand's commitment to traditional methods.
With a medium diameter and a slice thickness that balances flavor and texture, this pepperoni is suitable for a variety of uses beyond pizza. It contains no added nitrates or nitrites, except those naturally occurring in celery juice powder and sea salt. It is gluten free and contains no MSG or trans fats.
Columbus Uncured Pepperoni snacks"We saw an opportunity to deliver a pepperoni that fits seamlessly into everyday eating occasions, from sandwiches to school lunches, or just to snack on," said Evan Inada, charcuterie director for the Columbus Craft Meats brand. "This product is our answer to that demand. It's not just for charcuterie—it's designed for everyday use across multiple eating occasions."
Columbus Uncured Pepperoni is available at select retailers nationwide, including Kroger, Albertsons Portland and Mid-Atlantic, Giant Carlisle, Hy-Vee, Save Mart, Associated Wholesale Grocers, Associated Food Stores and Ralphs. The product is sold in a 4-ounce tray with a suggested retail price of $5.69.
Source: Columbus Craft Meats
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