Grace range of instant porridge mixes, a quick breakfast in five minutes. - photo by Nashauna Drummond

Keisha Shakespeare-Blackmore, Staff Reporter

Jamaica, like the rest of the world, is on a fast track and people do not have the time to prepare meals. Grace Foods and Services has found a way to provide a breakfast thatis not time-consuming and nutritious. On January 15, Grace Instant Porridge came on the market, providing a healthy and nutritious meal that is ready in five minutes.

Colette Morrison, brand manager for Grace Instant Porridge, said that the company is always looking for new ideas to convert products that will fit the lifestyle of their consumers. Plus, they wanted to produce a product that catered to the Jamaican people and that is pleasing to the palate.

Before the product was transformed from just an idea to reality, they conducted several surveys which proved that porridge is highly consumed by Jamaicans. But good, whole cornmeal came out as being the most popular among the lot.

Four flavours

The Grace Instant Porridge line carries four flavours: oats, banana oats, cornmeal and green banana. Miss Morrison notes that since the product hit the market, the cornmeal and the banana oats flavours are the most popular ones."I believe that people are curious and excited about the cornmeal especially," she said.

She told Food that Jamaicans have the perception that cornmeal needs to be thoroughly cooked or it will give you a bellyache. Therefore, they had to find a way to prepare the cornmeal so that it does not require 20 minutes of cooking time.

She also said that all the products are well spiced, flavourful and just as thick as home-made porridge. They are also filling and come in a handy cup. She further stated that each flavour is very nutritious especially the oats which has many health benefits. As we know, oats helps to lower cholesterol levels, and helps in weight loss and diabetes.

So, whether you are on the go, or you simply cannot be bothered to cook, Grace Instant Porridge is the way to go. All you need is five minutes and some boiling water and breakfast is ready.

Demand for the porridge has been tremendous. In fact, the brand manager said the demand tripled their forecast.

How to prepare

Step one: Open lid half way then pour boiling water to the fill line.

Step two: Stir briskly and make sure to get the corners.

Step three: Leave to simmer for five minutes then enjoy.

Comments:

The banana oats is really good and not too sweet, it is just right I am heading out to buy some.

The banana flavour is very flavourful but the cinnamon is too much for me.

The cornmeal was rich in its taste, something that I would have again.

The cornmeal has a good flavour but I still prefer to make my own porridge from scratch.

These are great for children at boarding school.

I like the idea of instant porridge, my mornings are too short to prepare breakfast, so this way, my children will still have a healthy breakfast.