PC Panasonic Corp.

SECAUCUS, N.J., Feb. 11 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Panasonic, a leader in microwave technology, today announced a collaboration with The Culinary Institute of America. This collaboration is designed to enhance culinary support for its renowned line of consumer microwave ovens. As part of this collaboration, The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) will develop no-fuss gourmet recipes for cooking with Panasonic microwaves, as well as create key microwave cooking technique videos that will be hosted on Panasonic's microwave "Virtual Test Kitchen" website. Developed with an eye toward keeping the American consumer fueled with healthy and delicious meals that are easy and quick to prepare, these recipes will feature economical and readily available ingredients with broad appeal. As well as providing complete recipes for preparation in a Panasonic microwave, the CIA team, headed by Certified Master Chefs, will also develop cooking tips based on their experience cooking while using Panasonic's cooking technology. "The CIA, as a leader in culinary research and development, was a natural choice when Panasonic looked to show the world the endless possibilities of microwave cooking," said Dan Silver, Group Head, Home Appliance Group, Panasonic. "We conducted a survey that showed only a third of people use their microwaves for cooking beyond reheating. We want to change that, to show people that microwave cooking can be easy, fun, fast and healthy. Thanks to this collaboration, we will be able to offer consumers a wide range of delicious contemporary recipes perfect for preparation in a Panasonic microwave. This collaboration also shows that we at Panasonic are committed to supporting our products throughout their lifetime, not just up to point-of-sale. Visitors to our website and 'Virtual Test Kitchen' can expect to find a host of delicious and easy-to-prepare recipes. We're not just a manufacturer, we are a resource." Panasonic's microwave ovens feature Inverter(TM) technology, a unique capability that allows for more even cooking. Unlike other microwave ovens, Inverter allows for an always-on, constant energy flow at variable intensities. Other ovens try to create lower energy levels by using the same maximum power all the time, but repeatedly turning it on and off. Panasonic's consistent and precise heat means more control over cooking, reheating and defrosting with more even results and no overcooked edges. "We are excited to collaborate with Panasonic and conduct research and development using their microwaves," said Ron DeSantis, Certified Master Chef and Project Director of CIA Consulting. "This is a great opportunity to show the American consumer that microwave cooking is about so much more than just reheating and making popcorn -- microwave cooking is about ease of preparation and healthy, delicious eating." In addition to developing healthy and delicious recipes for preparation in Panasonic microwaves, the CIA will also conduct complete nutritional analysis with dietary information for each recipe. For more information about Panasonic microwaves, please visit http://www.panasonic.com/inverter. About Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company Based in Secaucus, N.J., Panasonic Consumer Electronics Company (PCEC), a market and technology leader in High Definition television, is a Division of Panasonic Corporation of North America, the principal North American subsidiary of Panasonic Corporation (NYSE:PC) and the hub of Panasonic's U.S. marketing, sales, service and R&D operations. Information about Panasonic products is available at http://www.panasonic.com/. Additional company information for journalists is available at http://www.panasonic.com/pressroom. About The Culinary Institute of America Founded in 1946, The Culinary Institute of America is an independent, not-for-profit college offering bachelor's and associate degrees, as well as certificate programs, in either culinary arts or baking and pastry arts. As the world's premier culinary college, the CIA has a network of more than 37,000 alumni that includes industry leaders such as Grant Achatz, Anthony Bourdain, Michael Chiarello, Cat Cora, Steve Ells, Todd English, Duff Goldman, Sara Moulton, Charlie Palmer, and Roy Yamaguchi. The college has campuses in New York (Hyde Park), California (The CIA at Greystone, St. Helena), and Texas (San Antonio). In addition to its degree programs, the CIA also offers courses for professionals and food enthusiasts, as well as wine education. For more information, and a complete listing of program offerings at each site, visit the CIA online at http://www.ciachef.edu/. DATASOURCE: Panasonic CONTACT: Molly McDowell of Panasonic, +1-201-348-7185, ; or Naomi Sorkin of GLA Communications, +1-908-889-8300 x106, Web Site: http://www.panasonic.com/

Copyright