Category update: Prepared foods drive deli sales growth in May.

Supermarket deli departments experienced strong sales growth in May, with overall deli sales up 2.9% in both dollars and units compared to the previous year. Deli prepared foods saw a 4.4% increase in dollar sales, while deli entertaining and deli cheese also saw gains. The rise in sales coincided with a decline in restaurant visits, as more consumers reported dining out less often. Fresh produce sales also performed well, with fresh fruit leading the way with a 5.9% increase in dollar sales. The meat category saw a 3.3% increase in dollar sales, driven by fresh meat, while processed meats declined. Frozen foods sales remained flat, with indications of increasing trips to the department. Sales of fresh and frozen seafood declined, while shelf-stable seafood performed better. [Extracted from the article]