Food & Beverage Magazine - December Issue 2023 Brand Cover by Food & Beverage Magazine

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DECEMBER ISSUE 2023 COVER IMAGE Sunshine Punch

Image Credit: Shuttershot Productions

PUBLISHER MICHAEL POLITZ Michael@fb101.com DIRECTOR & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF LAUREN KANE Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT MANAGER SHELBY POLITZ Shelby.Politz@fbmagazine.co EUROPEAN FOOD ADVISOR ATTILIO BORRA Attilio.Borra@fbmagazine.co DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMATIC SALES BARB ROGERS Programmatic@fbmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS LENORE O’MEARA Lenore.Omeara@fbmagazine.co DAVID JACOBS David.Jacobs@fbmagazine.co AUSTIN VALDEZ Austin.Valdez@fbmagazine.co SUSAN GOLD Susan.Gold@fbmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS MICHAEL POLITZ STEPHANIE BLITZ CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DEBBIE HALL LAUREN MCINDOO LENORE O’MEARA SUSAN GOLD SHELBY POLITZ AUSTIN VALDEZ RYAN SLATTERY

We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles

Food & Beverage Magazine® is owned and published electronically by Beautiful People, LLC. Copyright 1995-2016 Beautiful People LLC. All rights reserved. Food & Beverage Magazine® and distinctive logo are trademarks owned by Beautiful People, LLC. “fb101.com” is a trademark of Beautiful People, LLC. No part of this electronic magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of Food & Beverage Magazine. Requests for permission should be directed to: Lauren.Kane@fbmagazine.com. The information contained has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organizations. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author, organization or public relation ﬁrm. Food & Beverage Magazine is not aﬃliated with any other food and beverage or hospitality publication.

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A NOSTALGICALLY

FRESH SPIRIT MADE FOR FRIENDS In the world of wine and spirits, there are no shortage of options. However, finding something innovative, authentic, and delicious is a rarity but as proven by Sunshine Punch, not an impossibility. This award-winning, alcoholic beverage is an orange dreamsicle in liquid form and checks all the boxes! Built upon the foundation of friendship and fun times, the Sunshine Punch brand is as memorable as the experiences it creates. Brian Thomason and Matt Hemmings are the co-founders of Sunshine Punch and have known one another for almost three decades, sharing countless stories of time spent sitting around a campfire on the beach, picking guitars throughout the night. Along with leaders like Jonathan Swope, the brand’s Chief Marketing Officer, the group is building a top shelf organization that is as exciting as the product itself. Speaking of the product, it’s truly an extension of that camaraderie and the idea that Sunshine Punch invites consumers to reflect fondly on the past while creating meaningful moments in the present. “Sunshine Punch was a beverage that began as a homemade creation by our partner. Over the years, we began to recognize the attraction and versatility of the product and just how entangled it was in our lifestyle,” said Hemmings. “We just got to a point where it felt right to commercialize it and we’ve been lockstepped together on the creation of the brand, the formulation of the product, the strategy of bringing Sunshine Punch to market ever since.” At the onset of the production process, the Sunshine Punch team imagined it wouldn’t be that difficult to transition from Page 5 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

“Sunshine Punch was a beverage that began as a homemade creation by our partner. Over the years, we began to recognize the attraction and versatility of the product and just how entangled it was in our lifestyle,” said Hemmings. “We just got to a point where it felt right to commercialize it and we’ve been lockstepped together on the creation of the brand, the formulation of the product, the strategy of bringing Sunshine Punch to market ever since.” making small batches to mass production. In reality, it turned out to be a much greater challenge. This realization led them to hire one of the best formulation beverage companies in the country. It was a learning process, but an enjoyable one. The team gained invaluable insight into the science of flavor combinations and the way in which it is received by the palate. Spending two or three days at a time, Brian and Matt would taste up to 70 iterations of Sunshine Punch. They became experts at talking about the various components of the spirit and tasting terminologies. In the end, partnering with a reputable beverage research and development team was worth it to ensure the aesthetics and taste of the final product would meet the elevated Sunshine Punch standards. You don’t have to learn to like it — you’ll instantly love it! In observing the brand’s ever-evolving demographic, Sunshine Punch took note of how the “rite of passage” for this generation differs from those of us born in prior decades. Nowadays, it’s all about finding a spirit that’s lower proof, tastes good, and delivers feel good vibes.

“All of our first drinks were something that tasted awful and we were told things like, it will grow on you,” said Thomason. “College students and young adults today aren’t interested in learning to like something. They want something that’s delicious now — and that’s Sunshine Punch.” Consumers also appreciate the convenience factor, as proven by the continued impact RTD beverages have on the dynamic of the alcohol industry. Although Sunshine Punch is not looking to take over that niche market, the product does strategically share the same underlying metrics that are driving the ready to drink craze. The initial mindset for the brand involved simply enjoying Sunshine Punch straight over ice. Although that is how the team recommends people first try it, they are coming to find that Sunshine Punch is a bartender’s best friend. And that’s because quite frankly, there is nothing else like it behind the bar. The completely unique flavor profile is consistently complementary and extremely versatile. From December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 6

spicy margaritas to cold brew coffee, the consumers unanimously agree that Sunshine Punch pairs well with almost any beverage. Receiving positive feedback and hearing all the innovative ways their originally homemade spirit is being put to use by the masses has been extremely fulfilling for Brian, Matt and Jonathan. And we are constantly hearing about innovative ways people have found to use Sunshine Punch. Surprised by inbound traffic and watching how this product has grown and become bigger than we could have imagined. As the Sunshine Punch movement continues to gain traction, they’ve embraced the term nostalgically fresh, which is not a clever marketing tactic but rather a direct result of reviews from those who have tried it. There’s something unique about Sunshine Punch that brings people back to their childhood but in a way that feels innovative and forward-thinking.

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Packing an authentic punch of personality. The inception of Sunshine Punch was a very genuine process. It’s a product inspired by friendship and valuing experiences over things. Designed to be sessionable, Sunshine Punch exists to be shared among good people sharing in good times. And as the brand continues to grow, maintaining that sense of authenticity and community is a priority. “We are passionate about staying true to who we are and building a company with intention focused on culture,” said Swope. “We want to have influence in the industry. But it’s not a popularity contest. It comes down to thinking differently about tired spaces while serving the masses.” As the brand continues to expand, they see the value in localizing at a national level. Because the players in this space are so big, the Sunshine Punch team needs to think of fresh, alternative ways to show up, gain

“We are passionate about staying true to who we are and building a company with intention focused on culture,” said Swope. “We want to have influence in the industry. But it’s not a popularity contest. It comes down to thinking differently about tired spaces while serving the masses.”

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awareness and keep people’s attention. This involves giveaways, collaborating with influencers, branded murals, pop up installations, sponsorships, event appearances and more. You’ll want to keep an eye out as Sunshine Punch prepares for its nationwide expansion — the beloved orange dreamsicle spirit will be in 41 states by the end of April 2024. There are also talks of partnering with some big name rum brands on a campaign to promote forward-thinking shooters and cocktails. Not to mention, there will be some exciting newcomers in the liquor space under Sunshine Punch’s larger entity of BAR Brands. And you can be certain that each product will be masterfully designed, extremely delicious and disruptive in its own right. “As a foundation for a much larger vision, I am blown away by the strength of the brand and how quickly it’s turning heads and paving the way for some bigger concepts to come,” said Hemmings. “I can remember the first time we enjoyed our homemade version of Sunshine Punch and to be able to see how it’s transformed into an idea that became a widely accepted and loved product is extremely humbling,” added Thomason. From coastlines to skylines to backyards everywhere, Sunshine Punch embodies a lifestyle of laid back beach vibes in every type of setting. This fun, inclusive and social spirit is yours for the tasting. So, whether you’re already a fan of Sunshine Punch or are hearing about it for the first time, grab a bottle to share among family and friends and just ask yourself — what’s the best that could happen? To learn more about the brand and to purchase the product, visit https://sunshinepunch.me/ Sunshine Punch is the recipient of the DOUBLE GOLD Masked Double Blind Tasting and the 100 point/ CENTURY Unmasked Total Package Design Distinction at the renowned PR%F Awards.

“As a foundation for a much larger vision, I am blown away by the strength of the brand and how quickly it’s turning heads and paving the way for some bigger concepts to come,” said Hemmings. “I can remember the first time we enjoyed our homemade version of Sunshine Punch and to be able to see how it’s transformed into an idea that became a widely accepted and loved product is extremely humbling,” added Thomason. Page 9 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

RECIPE

THE SUNBURN 2 oz Sunshine Punch 2 oz Pineapple Juice ½ oz Coconut Rum ½ oz Dark Rum Combine - Shake - Pour Sprinkle with Nutmeg. Garnish with orange slice.

RECIPE

GOOD MORNING SUNSHINE 2 oz Sunshine Punch

2 oz Cold Brew Coffee Combine - Shake - Serve over Ice

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RECIPE

THE SUNDOWN 1 oz Sunshine Punch 1 oz Coffee Infused Tequila Combine - Shake Pour into Shooter Glass

“College students and young adults today aren’t interested in learning to like something. They want something that’s delicious now — and that’s Sunshine Punch.” Page 11 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

DECEMBER ISSUE 2023 COVER IMAGE AC Barbecue Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer Image Credit: Matt Sayles/A&E 2023

We honor and remember the support of Chef Kerry Simon, Gary Cantor, Robin Leach, Chef Paul Prudhomme, & Gary Coles

PAGE 5

COVER FEATURE

Contents December 2023 Inside this issue Page 5 Page 17 Page 19 Page 21 Page 23 Page 27 Page 31 Page 35 Page 39 Page 41 Page 43 Page 47

Cover Feature: Hustle Heart ECRM celebrates its 30th Anniversary GiftAMeal Cheers this Holiday SNAX-Sational Brands’ Holiday Giving Campaign A Chocolate Lover’s Dream Come True How Avocados From Mexico Changed Produc Marketing A Mosaic Of Chalk, Vines, And Talent. Roadside Taco Three Qualities to Consider When Considering an Investor for Your Restaurant OFF GRID VIP Viewing Suite At SUSHI ROKU Rhum Barbancourt

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Page 49

Pop Stars

Page 51

Feast of Flavors: Exploring Italy’s Rich Christmas Culinary Traditions

Page 55

Iron Chef, Jose Garces Shares Tips and Tricks for an Unforgettable Holiday Meal

Page 59

SNAX-Sational Brands

Page 61

Glass Ceiling

Page 63

4 Tech-Driven Tactics for Restaurant Growth and Longevity

Page 67

Mr. T: Guillaume Guedj

Page 69

Pizza Girl

Page 73

Turn 66

Page 77

Solving Food Insecurity

Page 81

Editor’s Top Pick

Page 143

Passion Tree

Page 153

Brand Feature: Sunshine Punch

PAGE 69

27 PAGE

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Hustle. Heart. And authentic hometown barbeque.

Most people will tell you it’s not a good idea to go into business with friends or family. In the case of Anthony Anderson and Cedric The Entertainer, making the decision to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams together was a no brainer. Having experienced a plethora of success as comedians and actors, Anthony and Cedric had been on the lookout for different business venture opportunities — particularly in the food industry.

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At the time when discussions about AC Barbeque came about, a liquor brand approached the pair about a potential partnership. In the end, the two landed on the BBQ business as it felt more authentic to who they are and what they enjoy doing. A self-proclaimed foodie, Anthony had already been in the culinary space working on a line of hot sauces and appearing in multiple shows on the Food Network. And Cedric was a natural at doing what he does best — entertaining — at gatherings with family, friends, and of course delicious BBQ food. In this way, their skills, knowledge and insights complement one another well. Anthony takes on more of the chef role, while Cedric’s ideas are inspired by the celebratory nature of the brand. They are both constantly collaborating and thinking of ways to bring the AC Barbeque slogan of “Rooted in culture. Fueled by community.” to life. “Cedric and I recognize that we are always willing to put in the work in our professional and personal lives,” said Anthony. “We’re go-getters. . And our shared commitment to creating opportunities for ourselves along with those around us, results in an undeniable synergy as we work to build and broaden the AC Barbeque brand along with our friendship.”

...our shared commitment to creating opportunities for ourselves along with those around us, results in an undeniable synergy as we work to build and broaden the AC Barbeque brand along with our friendship. December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 8

Anthony and Cedric have surrounded themselves with a team of dynamic individuals who are fully vested in helping them to realize the AC Barbeque visions of grandeur in order to continuously propel the brand forward. Understanding the importance of creating and fostering meaningful relationships, Anthony and Cedric aren’t afraid to pull over on the side of the road when they see people grilling and just start a conversation. It doesn’t even matter if they are interested in using the AC Barbeque products. At the end of the day, Anthony and Cedric do not view themselves as being in direct competition with other barbecue brands on the market. They are focused on embracing this unique culinary sector that is innately welcoming to so many styles of cooking and cultural influences. It’s about creating products that bring people together in a memorable and positive way. Providing a sense of belonging via the art of BBQ.

In fact, when they first launched the AC Barbeque brand, the actors partnered with A&E Network to document their quest to perfect the skill of the grill in an unscripted series titled “Kings of BBQ.” It was a very natural way to begin their pursuit of making genuine connections while leaving their AC Barbeque mark on prime beef, chicken, pork, fish and everything else you could possibly throw on the grill. Anthony and Cedric are extremely excited about the possibility of creating something big within this space. Playing a different kind of leading role. As one might expect, the entrepreneurship experience is different from that of an actor. Before becoming business owners, Anthony and Cedric were used to promoting and being a part of productions that followed the direction of other entities. In the case of AC Barbeque, they take great pride in being the face of the brand and product, knowing they did it for themselves. From conception to completion, the responsibility has fallen squarely on the dynamic duo’s shoulders — and they wouldn’t have it any other way.

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“As entrepreneurs, every little win feels like a big win for us,” said Cedric. “When you take a chance and it ends up working out. When you see your brand on the shelves in Lowes and Walmart. When you cross paths with people who believe in you and your product. These victories as a business owner are more fulfilling to me than having someone compliment my role in a TV show.”

Building upon the foundation of flavors they had come to know and love throughout the course of their childhood and worldly travels, Anthony and Cedric worked with culinary scientists and renowned chefs to land on a collection of final products that delivered a refined, unexpected sense of nostalgia. Utilizing the senses in a way that takes people back to a time and place of innocence is a significant part of what AC Barbeque is striving to achieve.

It’s obvious this is more than just a professional endeavor, but a passion project as well. Cedric hails from St. Louis, Missouri, while Anthony has familial ties to the southern state of Arkansas. The barbecue culture runs through their veins, making the AC Barbeque brand a true extension of their roots. So it should come as no surprise that the process of creating their current line of rubs and sauces began with personal recipes.

It was a back and forth, detail-oriented, experimental process that allowed them to gain a better understanding of the variety of palate preferences and the complexities of ingredient interactions. In staying true to the spirit of their brand, Anthony and Cedric landed on three BBQ rubs (Midnight Smoke, The MVP, and Lemon Stepper) along with two BBQ sauces (All Day, Every Day and AC Gold AKA Caroline Wine).

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“To us, Black excellence is about lifting as we climb and finding ways to reinvest into the communities from which we came,” said Anthony.

In addition to enriching the BBQ culture, community and overall experience, the AC Barbeque brand was founded on the principles of Black excellence. Anthony and Cedric are always grinding it out, making a concerted effort to be the best they can be in all aspects of their lives. At the same time, they continue to be transparent about their process and the mindset for their business in a way that lets people know they care. “To us, Black excellence is about lifting as we climb and finding ways to reinvest into the communities from which we came,” said Anthony. “It’s about representing the Black community in a positive light — saying and doing things in a way people can look up to you as a role model and a source of inspiration for what they themselves can accomplish,” added Cedric. Along those lines, it’s important that individuals within the Black community are able to share their unique experiences and perspectives. To Anthony and Cedric’s knowledge, the true origin story of the barbecue culture has never been told by someone within the Black community. It’s valuable to gain insight into the way it provides a sense of belonging, how it all began, and why it’s still relevant today. As far as Anthony and Cedric are concerned, AC Barbeque is the perfect narrator, sharing these stories in a way that will resonate with people. Anthony and Cedric are excited about the steady growth they’ve experienced since the inception of AC Barbeque. Opportunities to expand in a creative and organic way continue to present themselves, making the future that much more flavorful and satisfying. December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 12

Big personalities and even bigger plans. There’s no denying that when Anthony and Cedric are together, the fun energy and optimistic vibes are tangible. It just so happens that the concepts they have in the works for AC Barbeque in 2024 and beyond are equally as exciting. In addition to focusing on a seemingly obvious expansion of their current collection of rubs and sauces, AC Barbeque is in the process of curating an accessory line. These new SKUs will include items such as a caddy for conveniently storing all your BBQ necessities near the grill, aprons, burger presses, tongs, cutlery, spatulas (or “hot food flippers” as Anthony calls them), and more.

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Anthony and Cedric have also developed a partnership with Sodexo and SodexoMagic to introduce AC Barbeque onsite college campus kitchens. Their first location will be at Jackson State University with the intent of having a presence on other HBCU campuses nationwide. The cafeterias and commissary at universities have significantly transformed over the years. Nowadays it is common for big brand, chain restaurants to become a part of the school’s meal program. Being the innovators that they are, Anthony and Cedric identified the untapped potential that exists in this niche space.

“Aligning ourselves with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) allows us to introduce the AC Barbeque brand to their business students who can then become a part of what we’re building on campus,” said Anthony. Allowing these individuals to get firsthand experience in the entrepreneurial world while playing a role in the advancement of AC Barbeque is a win-win.” “And this is a chance for us to build a youthful fanbase who will get to know and love the AC Barbeque brand, growing up with our food and flavors,” stated Cedric. But wait, there’s more! Anthony and Cedric have no intention of slowing down as they draw up the plans and layout the details for a highly anticipated brickand-mortar restaurant. This flagship location will be in Westfield Century City Mall, proudly serving up traditional BBQ dishes with an unexpected twist. Whether it’s mac n’ cheese served in the form of a muffin or a peach cobbler with an added egg roll twist — the culinary creations and atmosphere will be the perfect combination of sentimental and sensational.

There will also be a philanthropic component to the business. Anthony and Cedric are aligned in their goal of utilizing AC Barbeque for the greater good of their communities near and far.

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There will also be a philanthropic component to the business. Anthony and Cedric are aligned in their goal of utilizing AC Barbeque for the greater good of their communities near and far. They are working on concepts that involve alleviating the issue of food deserts, providing education scholarships, implementing healthy lifestyle initiatives, and more. It’s all about cultivating wins and a sense of togetherness. “I love the idea of integrating the ‘husky and handsome’ athlete of the week and ‘Kings and Queens of BBQ’,” said Cedric. “Things that invite people to be a part of the culture in a way that expands upon the brand without beating you over the head with marketing. That’s what’s been really unique about the success we’ve been experiencing and the unlimited potential we have in front of us.” There’s no telling where the AC BBQ brand will go next but what is for certain is that it will be filled with authentic culinary creations and moments worth savoring.

A MESSAGE OF GRATITUDE

We’d like to thank everyone out there who continues to support the AC Barbeque brand — it means so much to us, to the BBQ community and to what we are trying to accomplish. To the Walmarts, Lowe’s and future stores — we are humbled by your belief in our products. And to all the pitmasters, chefs, and entertainers who embrace our vision — we see you using our rubs and sauces, sharing your recipes, and spreading the word about the AC Barbeque brand on your own volition. Thank you! Bringing AC Barbeque to fruition has been a lifelong dream of ours and we couldn’t have done it without our amazingly dynamic and supportive community. - Anthony Anderson and Cedric The Entertainer AC Barbeque is currently selling a limited edition holiday gift set at Lowe’s stores nationwide. This nicely packaged trio of BBQ rubs is guaranteed to please anyone who loves to cook or host gatherings with family and friends. You can view and purchase any of the AC Barbeque products here and you’ll definitely want to check out all the cool AC Barbeque merch. Page 15 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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As ECRM celebrates its 30th Anniversary next year, it will be returning to its roots hosting a full roster of in-person Sessions across categories within food and beverage, health and beauty care, general merchandise and pharmacy/medical markets.

Oyola, General Manager, Business Development - Sales for Mason Vitamins. “Nothing beats the in-person face time we get during the buyer meetings, and the many networking opportunities really help us build strong industry relationships. Here’s to another successful 30 years, ECRM!”

ECRM was founded in 1994 by Charlie Bowlus as an efficient way for buyers to connect with brands in-person to discover new products and plan their categories. In March 2020, when the pandemic resulted in severe travel restrictions, the company pivoted to virtual meetings using its proprietary ECRM Connect platform, on which it has hosted close to 400,000 meetings to date.

In addition, ECRM has expanded its very popular roundtable program to all of its Sessions. The ECRM Roundtables provide an opportunity for participating buyers and brands to have casual offthe-record moderated discussions on a variety of key industry topics during which they can share the latest trends and best practices.

Now that travel restrictions are lifted and buyers and sellers are increasingly seeking in-person meeting opportunities, ECRM has evolved yet again to meet this demand. In total, ECRM has hosted more than 3 million meetings between buyers and sellers since its inception in 1994.

Starting this month and throughout 2024, ECRM plans to also feature content reflecting on how the company has evolved to continue serving its retailers, foodservice operators and brands with new technology, high-touch services and fun activities.

“ECRM is a valued partner, providing Southeastern Grocers with critical tools and opportunities to meet our customers’ ever-changing needs, and we are honored to share in the celebration of this milestone anniversary with the return to in-person meetings,” said Dewayne Rabon, Chief Merchandising Officer for Southeastern Grocers. “ECRM demonstrated excellence in innovation and advancement with its seamless transition to virtual meetings during the pandemic, enabling us to continue discovering new products to offer our customers. We look forward to expanding upon our virtual connections at our in-person meetings, and once again have the opportunity for hands-on product evaluation -- an essential component to our merchandising strategy as shopper behaviors and preferences continue to shift.”

“If we’ve learned anything about the company in observing its 30-year history – and having been part of the team for 20 of them – it’s that we are certainly resilient and adaptable,” said Sarah Davidson, EVP of ECRM. “As our customers’ needs have changed, we’ve changed with them, continuing to find ways of delivering our trademark high-touch service and a wealth of opportunities for product discovery and relationship-building. We are thrilled that we’ll be able to share our anniversary celebrations with our customers inperson.”

All ECRM’s 68 category-specific 2024 Sessions will be hosted in top-tier hotels and resorts at locations throughout the U.S. and Europe, including Barcelona, Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, and New Orleans. In addition to the face-to-face meetings between buyers and sellers that ECRM has always been known for, each session will feature educational programming that is packed with thought leadership and actionable insights, as well as tons of networking opportunities during meals, cocktail receptions, offsite dinners and store tours. “I’ve been coming to ECRM Sessions since the beginning and have landed several key retail accounts as a result,” said Nilda

ABOUT ECRM ECRM brings efficiencies and effectiveness to the buying and selling process by propelling connections between buyers and suppliers through highly-curated, in-person meetings. With 29 years of experience, ECRM’s sessions promote relationships, forward thinking insights and process efficiencies. ECRM works with companies around the world in a variety of different categories including food & beverage, general merchandise, health & beauty care, pharmacy & medical markets and foodservice.

For more information, or to schedule interviews, please contact: Joseph Tarnowski VP of Content & Global Media, ECRM joe.tarnowski@rangeme.com

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GIVING THANKS

Tog!her

How GiftAMeal and Your Restaurant can Make a Difference this Holiday Season

As we gather around the table this holiday season, reflecting on the year’s blessings, there’s a profound opportunity for restaurants to give back to the communities that have supported them. GiftAMeal, the cause-marketing program I’m proud to lead as Founder & CEO, offers a unique avenue for restaurants to make a meaningful impact this holiday season. This has been a transformative year for GiftAMeal, and I’m thrilled to share the milestones we’ve achieved together. With over 900 restaurant partners nationwide, GiftAMeal has become a beacon of positive change in the industry. Our reach has expanded to 37 states, a testament to the collective dedication of our partners and the communities we serve.

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In October 2023, we reached a new record impact, providing 53,449 meals in a single month to families in need through over 100 local food banks. To date, GiftAMeal has distributed 1,639,499 meals, translating to nearly 2 million pounds of food. It’s a remarkable testament to what can be accomplished when businesses and communities come together. Our commitment to making a positive impact has not gone unnoticed. GiftAMeal was honored to receive the Grand Prize in Amazon Business’ 2023 Small Business Grant, standing out among 35,000 national applicants. This recognition underscores the significance of our collective efforts and the positive change we’re driving.

To date, GiftAMeal has distributed 1,639,499 meals, translating to nearly 2 million pounds of food. It’s a remarkable testament to what can be accomplished when businesses and communities come together. Reflecting on this journey, I am immensely grateful for the support and enthusiasm that the GiftAMeal community has shown. The impact we’ve made wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our restaurant partners, staff, and the communities that have embraced our mission.

For restaurants, the decision to join GiftAMeal goes beyond traditional philanthropy. Our growing list of partners includes a diverse range of establishments, from local favorites to nationwide chains, all sharing a common goal – to give back to their communities. This holiday season, as families come together to share a meal, GiftAMeal provides an opportunity for restaurants to extend that spirit of togetherness beyond their doors. The emotional connection fostered by our feel-good experience is not only changing lives but also enhancing customer loyalty. Guests from partner restaurants return 39% more frequently, spend 20% more per visit, and tip 32% more than standard patrons. Our journey is fortified by the guidance of our distinguished Advisory Board, composed of industry veterans and thoughtleaders such as Phil Crawford, CTO of CKE Restaurants, and Andrew Rebhun, Chief Experience Officer of CAVA. Their endorsement underscores the transformative impact of GiftAMeal’s platform on hunger relief in communities across the country. For restaurants seeking a meaningful way to give back this holiday season, GiftAMeal offers a compelling opportunity. By becoming a partner, you’re not just providing meals; you’re creating a positive ripple effect in your community. As we express gratitude for the abundance in our lives, let’s remember the power we have to make a difference in the lives of others. This season, I invite restaurants to join GiftAMeal in the spirit of giving, creating a legacy of impact that extends far beyond the holiday season. Together, we can make this holiday season a celebration of gratitude and generosity for all.

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El Cristiano @elcristianotequila

The ultra premium of luxury tequilas, El Cristiano offers an additive free and sustainable, delicious and award-winning world class tequila, featuring the finest aged blue weber agave out of Jalisco, Mexico. Offered in a gift set for the holiday season, this tequila is both a sipper and an entertainer’s dream. It’s pure taste leaves no burn, no hangover and is purity with a purpose, as they fund both orphanages and youth sports teams in Guadalajara with their proceeds, Their offering selection includes Silver, Reposado, Extra Reposado and Extra Aged Anejo. They are at Total Wines nationwide as well as local retailers across the US, with a full store locator on their website, including hotels, restaurants and nightlife establishments as well. They are in local restaurant, bars and Speakeasies like Cold Shoulder and Gracias Madre in Los Angeles, private members clubs like Soho House and San Vicente Bungalows, Vegas hotels and casino resorts like Resorts World and WYNN, hotels across the country from W South Beach to Ritz Carlton and Proper Hotels, plus world renowned notable restaurants like Nobu and Spago. Visit online at www.el-cristiano.com

BeatBox Beverages @Beatboxbeverages

The perfect ready-to-drink boxed beverage featuring flavors like hard tea, fruit punch, peach punch, pink lemonade and tropical punch, introduces Green Apple for holiday, the perfect flavor for the season to compliment any holiday party spread. An easy and delicious option for entertaining, the drinks are low in sugar, low in carbs, and low in calories, served in ecofriendly resealable packaging. Known as “The world’s tastiest and original party punch,” BeatBox, an alum of Shark Tank, is the perfect RTD offering. Ideal for on-the-go events like outdoor concerts, drive-ins and gatherings with friends, the beverages are available all over the country at convenience stores, grocery and specialty chains. Visit beatboxbeverages.com for full brand and flavor info as well as store locator information. Their fun packaging and throwback nostalgia branding, takes the experience of BeatBox to another level.

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Casa Luigi @casaluigiprosecco Casa Luigi offers a range of premium Prosecco- based sparkling wine cocktails, including Bianco, Rosé, Imperial, Veneziano, and Hugo spritz. Each of these cocktails offers a unique flavor profile and a taste of European sophistication in a convenient, beautifully designed floral can, inspired by founder Claudia’s grandmother’s teacup. They take pride in European heritage and the tradition of Prosecco, and they want customers to feel that experience from the moment they have a can in their hands. They are the only brand in the US offering Prosecco, Sparking Rosé and Prosecco Spritz in cans, using Glera grapes from the beautiful and world famous region of Veneto in Northern Italy. https://www.casa-luigi.com

Free AF Beverages @SoberCurious_AF

Free AF “sober curious” beverages are an award winning non alcoholic premade cocktail beverage that are also “Tasty AF.” Enhanced with Afterglow (™), which is a 100% natural botanical heat extract mimicking the warmth of alcohol and rosy glow, without the booze or hangover. They are low in sugar, low in calories and gluten free. This is the perfect drink for those that are sober curious, wanting a break from liquor, and also for Dry January which lies ahead. But, with the holiday season upon us, this is the perfect cocktail to serve to those that do not drink or are wanting to skip the liquor component. They recently introduced their latest flavor addition, Cucumber G&T, truly perfect for holiday entertaining either on its own or in combination with their full flavor portfolio, Paloma, Apero Spritz, Cuba Libre, and Vod%a Spritz. All are available at Sprouts, with additional purchasing information on their website, www.us.af-drinks.com

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SNAX-Sational Brands’ Holiday Giving Campaign with Ryan Seacrest Foundation Marked by

#GIVINGTUESDAY Gingerbread House Initiative Supported by Coast To Coast Events in NYC and Los Angeles Cookie Pop Iced Gingerbread and Candy Pop Peppermint Hot Chocolate Special Edition Flavors Proceeds Benefit Ryan Seacrest Foundation For Annual #Snackgiving Drive, with events at The Ned NoMad and Cold Shoulder Speakeasy in Los Angeles

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SNAX-Sational Brands’ Candy Pop and Cookie Pop signature special edition holiday flavors -- Cookie Pop Popcorn Iced Gingerbread and Candy Pop Popcorn Peppermint Hot Chocolate -- for which the Ryan Seacrest Foundation is a charitable partner of the campaign, were highlighted by the November 28th national day of giving. For the 2023 holiday season, the brand launched a Gingerbread House Contest Giveaway, engaging consumers on social media to partake in a family-friendly activity to raise awareness for the foundation and their work. This kicked off on November 6th and will continue to run through the holiday season, further amplified on November 28th for #GivingTuesday. The limited edition seasonal flavors are currently available in 5.25oz size bags and available for purchase at Kroger, Publix, Save-A-Lot, Safeway, Albertsons, H.E.B., Shoprite, and more, currently on shelves ($4.29 - $4.79). Available at all retail locations that carry Cookie, Candy, and Cereal Pop, plus E-comm at www. cookiepopcandypop.com These delicious two seasonal flavors returned due to consumer demand, originally inspired by signature holiday treats and desserts - Frosting, Gingerbread Cookies, Peppermint Candies, and Hot Chocolate. The indulgent combinations of Iced Gingerbread and Peppermint Hot Chocolate, combined with Cookie Pop and Candy Pop’s delicious non-GMO popcorn, make for the perfect holiday season snack offering to family and friends. Plus, it remains guilt-free at only 150 calories per serving. On November 6th, SNAX-Sational launched their Gingerbread House Contest Giveaway timed to #GivingTuesday to allow their customers to partake in the fun, driving a social media campaign with at-home Gingerbread kits utilizing the popcorn, celebrated with a Gingerbread House making event in New York City on November 10th for press, influencers and vips at The Ned NoMad in Manhattan. The drink also featured specialty holiday themed cocktails by Thomas Ashborne and non-alcoholic cocktails by Free AF, plus glitter adorned prosecco and the holiday flavor popcorn as garnish. On November 28th, the Los Angeles VIP event was held at Cold Shoulder Speakeasy bar, with another intimate gathering of VIPS to partake in the Gingerbread Making workshop in celebration of the holiday skews and charity partnership. Cold Shoulder featured their signature holiday libations, featuring El Cristiano Tequila, and topped with the delicious holiday popcorn flavors. The winner of the social contest gets a 6 month supply of their favorite flavor plus the gratitude for supporting this great cause. The goal is to spread awareness for Ryan Seacrest Foundation as a charitable partner through the #GivingTuesday campaign and holiday giveaway. SNAX-Sational Brands relationship with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, now in its third year, is committed to supporting the RSF non-profit organization dedicated to inspiring today’s youth through entertainment and education-focused initiatives. RSF’s first initiative is to build broadcast media centers, named Seacrest Studios, within pediatric hospitals for patients to explore the creative realms of radio, television, and new media.

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GivingTuesday is the global generosity movement that unleashes the power of people and organizations to transform their communities and the world. A portion of the proceeds from retail sales and at cookiepopcandypop.com will be donated to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. This non-profit is dedicated to inspiring today’s youth through entertainment and education-focused initiatives in children’s hospitals nationwide. SNAX-Sational Brands’ premiere power duo Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, continues to be the innovative popcorn snacking leader combining everyone’s favorite things - ready-to-eat popcorn featuring America’s cookie and candy favorites, yielding the perfect, must-have snack creation. The better-for-you snack is made 100% in the U.S. with non-GMO corn, is low in sodium, and only 150 calories per serving. The popular, low-calorie, cookie or candy-coated line was named a “Top 20 Snack” by Buzzfeed and continues to garner attention amongst consumers, media, and celebrities, such as Cardi B., Kourtney Kardashian, Lance Bass, Kevin Hart, Mario Lopez, and David Dobrik. “We are incredibly grateful to SNAX-Sational Brands for their ongoing support of the foundation and our 13 Seacrest Studios across the country,” notes Meredith Seacrest, Executive Director & COO for RSF. “Brands like theirs help in our mission to bring positive and uplifting experiences to patients and their families while in the hospital.” “We are so thrilled to continue supporting the incredible efforts of the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, as well as engage our customers with the Gingerbread House Giveaway. We are honored to work closely with such an impactful nonprofit.” - Adam Cohen, Chief Marketing Officer, SNAX-Sational Brands Group The Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to inspiring today’s youth through entertainment and

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education-focused initiatives. RSF’s primary initiative is to build broadcast media centers — Seacrest Studios — within pediatric hospitals for patients to explore the creative realms of radio, television, and new media. Founded in 2009, RSF currently has Seacrest Studios at hospitals in Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Cincinnati, Dallas, Denver, Orange County, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Nashville, Orlando, Memphis, and Queens. A new studio is scheduled to open later this year in Salt Lake City, UT at Primary Children’s Hospital. For more information, visit www. ryanseacrestfoundation.org. SNAX-Sational Brand’s premiere popcorn brands are composed of the popular Cookie Pop and Candy Pop varieties. Since its debut, it has become America’s #1 popcorn brand, featuring flavors such as Cookie Pop made with OREO® cookie pieces, Cookie Pop made with NUTTER BUTTER® and Cookie Pop made with CHIPS AHOY!® cookie pieces, Candy Pop made with M&M’s® Minis candy pieces, Candy Pop made with SNICKERS®, Candy Pop made with Sour Patch Kids®, Candy Pop made with TWIX® candy pieces, Candy Pop made with Butterfinger® candy pieces, plus Cereal Pop made with FRUITY PEBBLES® and Cereal Pop made with COCOA PEBBLES®. They are the leader in the industry as a sweet & savory pioneer, combining delicious signature candy flavors and cookie coatings with low-sodium, non-GMO corn, at only 150 calories per serving. With retail partners such as Kroger, Publix, Save-A-Lot, Safeway, Albertsons, H.E.B.Shoprite. You can also locate their special edition holiday flavors through their Ecomm Store finder, www.cookiepopcandypop.com. SNAXSational Brands Group premier popcorn brand also introduced its newest portfolio expansion in February 2023, Cereal Pop, joining sister brands Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, featuring instant flavor favorites, Cereal Pop made with FRUITY PEBBLES® and Cereal Pop made with COCOA PEBBLES®.

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A Chocolate Lover’s Dream Come True

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Chocolate. There’s so much to love about this classic dessert. In fact, the annual global consumption of this particular sweet in 2022 was roughly 7.5 million tons! However, not all chocolate is created equal — especially when it’s in the form of liqueur. For over 60 years, Mozart has been the leader in this niche market, working passionately with a master chocolatier in Salzburg, Austria, to produce a wide array of chocolate liqueurs that deliver perfected flavors and elevated experiences. Once you’ve tasted this product, any alternative doesn’t stand a chance of meeting your expectations. “Like the music of Mozart, the composition of our chocolate liqueur is characterized by its high quality and attention to detail,” said Dietmar Fadinger, Mozart’s Distiller. “I only select the finest raw ingredients for our products, like cocoa from West Africa and vanilla from Madagascar.” The original Mozart Chocolate Liqueur is handcrafted with love. Starting with three main ingredients — cocoa, Bourbon vanilla, and sugar beets — the master chocolatier goes through a multi-step process to achieve the optimal taste. It starts with the distillation of the sugar beets. Next is the maceration of the cocoa and vanilla. Last but not least, the cocoa and vanilla are integrated with the other ingredients by working with different temperatures in an elaborate blending process, creating the unique and superior Mozart Chocolate Liqueur. The result is a wide array of the highest quality products and multitudes of rave reviews. When it comes time to craft a new chocolate flavor, Mozart Chocolate Liqueur understands the importance of selecting the right raw materials and knowing how to properly combine each ingredient. There are numerous prerequisites for developing chocolate liqueur. It’s a learning process that involves an innate attention to detail and unwavering commitment. Depending on which Mozart Chocolate Liqueur is created, we refine our products with the finest Belgian chocolate, a special cream from the Netherlands, and/or caramel. But it’s not just how Mozart Chocolate Liqueur is made, it’s about where this masterpiece of a product is made. Continuing A Sweet Legacy Austria boasts a rich and delectable connection to chocolate, with a history deeply rooted in the art of confectionery. The country’s love affair with chocolate can be traced back to the 18th century when Maria Theresa, the Archduchess of Austria, and her court were introduced to the delicacy. However, it was in the 19th century that Austria truly made its mark on the chocolate scene with the emergence of iconic chocolatiers. Today, the country’s chocolate culture is alive and thriving, with a myriad of artisanal chocolatiers

crafting premium chocolates and company’s like Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs contributing to Austria’s sweet legacy. “The Mozart Distillerie has manufactured exemplary products for over 65 years in Austria. In 1979, the distillerie began specializing in the production of chocolate liqueurs and has since earned its reputation as the authentic chocolate liqueur of choice,” said Carina Planeta, MA Senior Brand Manager Mozart Chocolate Liqueur. “The foundation of our company is built upon a foundation of expertise, creativity, and a devotion to our products and the people they are made to please.” The company’s roots are in Austria, but Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs prides itself on being a global brand with their chocolate products being influenced by the most popular chocolate flavors in the world. In fact, they are the only chocolate liqueur brand with a milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate , and a coffee chocolate — gluten free and great for making espresso martinis! Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs also offers highly anticipated seasonal releases such as Pumpkin Chocolate in the fall and Strawberry White Chocolate in the summer. All products are gluten free with the Dark Chocolate flavor being vegan as well. The Complete Package The idea behind the first Mozart Chocolate Liqueur was to create a liquid chocolate praliné similar to the popular Mozart chocolates confectionery from Salzburg, Austria. Keeping this in mind, the packaging and presentation needed to be as impressive as the product itself. Wrapped in a luxurious foil, a bottle of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur playfully and elegantly takes on the appearance of a classy dessert you can drink. “One day my best friend gave me a bottle of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur as a gift and the golden wrapping immediately stood out,” said Jenny Manger, Marketing Director Marussia Beverages USA. “Every sip delivered a smooth, creamy chocolate flavor. To this day, I’ve never experienced a spirit as delicious as this.” Customers have mentioned how this product is an absolute delight. Compared to other chocolate liqueurs on the market, the Mozart brand uses all natural ingredients. It’s one of the many reasons Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs continues to pave the way forward in this particular spirit category. They are constantly working on new product ideas, taking into consideration the latest trends in the chocolate industry and the desires of consumers in the countries where Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs are sold.

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The chocolate range of their products all have a soft, playful, creamy and delicate finish with a subtle hint of alcohol. After tasting it, you’ll be both surprised and delighted by the quality. Consumers will also appreciate knowing what’s inside, namely all natural ingredients. And these simple ingredients are transformed into a sophisticated line of chocolate liqueurs that are extremely delicious and versatile. There are countless ways to enjoy a glass of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur, including these crowd pleasing choctail recipes:

White Chocolate Peppermint Mozartini Ingredients Karo syrup Crushed peppermint candies Ice 4 ounces Mozart White Chocolate Liqueur 4 ounces vodka ¼ teaspoon peppermint extract Directions Dip two martini glasses in Karo syrup and dip into crushed peppermints. Chill glasses. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice then add the Mozart, vodka, and peppermint extract. Shake for 30 seconds and divided between the glasses. Credit: @glutenfreeandmoremag

Chocolate Cream Mozartini Ingredients Chocolate syrup 4 ounces Mozart Chocolate Cream 2 ounces vodka 2 ounces heavy cream Whipped cream Chocolate curl or shaved chocolate Directions Fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Add the Mozart Chocolate cream, vodka, and heavy cream and shake for 30 seconds. Strain into martini glasses. Top with whipped cream and chocolate. Credit: @glutenfreeandmoremag

Take a moment and imagine eating a piece of a really good, high quality chocolate bar as the chocolate slowly melts on your tongue. That’s how Mozart Chocolate Liqueur tastes. It’s a smoothly balanced and delightful treat with a rich and viscous liquid that pours slowly and is easily savored. So when you find yourself craving something rich and sweet, treat yourself to a bottle of Mozart Chocolate Liqueur — you will not be disappointed! Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs are the perfect gift for others or for yourself. You can view the complete line of products here. Already have a bottle of Mozart Chocolate Liqueurs and want some mixologist-approved inspiration? Here’s a list of choctail recipes you’ll enjoy trying.

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HOW AVOCADOS FROM MEXICO CHANGED PRODUCE MARKETING THE BRAND IS CELEBRATING ITS 10TH ANNIVERSARY By Ryan Slattery

Two years after Avocados From Mexico formed to market the creamy green fruit to Americans, the new brand burst on the scene in a big way–with a Super Bowl advertisement. It was the first produce commercial to ever air during the game. In 2015, Avocados From Mexico introduced itself with a comedic spot titled “First Draft Ever.” It featured exNFL players Jerry Rice, Doug Flutie, and a caveman, as commentators to a prehistoric selection process which had each country selecting a single item. Australia, for example, picks the kangaroo. Brazil takes the sloth and Rice criticizes its “off-the-field issues.” Mexico obviously chooses the avocado and Flutie praises the pick, “That makes a ton of sense. Rich volcanic soil. That will make Avocados From Mexico the ideal yearround snack.” A voice-over then concludes, “Grown with love from the beginning of time.” We’ve been seeing their funny Super Bowl ads and hearing that catchy jingle every year since.

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The move paid off. Executives say in the weeks leading up to the NFL Championship game, Avocados From Mexico is responsible for approximately 95% of avocado sales in the United States, importing 250 million pounds during that time frame. “Our results have been fantastic, and our Big Game ad campaigns have driven brand awareness and visibility over the years, generating more than 55 billion impressions for the brand,” says Alvaro Luque, President and CEO of Avocados From Mexico. “In 2015, we became the first-ever produce brand to advertise during the Big Game. This was a strategic move for us to highlight the synergies between football, football watch parties, and guacamole. Over the next eight years, we continued to tell a strong story: we

are always in season, always versatile, always fun and delicious, and always good.” The brand was founded in 2013 as a collaboration between the Mexican Hass Avocado Importers Association (MHAIA) and the Association of Avocado Exporting Producers and Packers of Mexico (APEAM) with the dual purpose of driving demand and building a brand for Mexican avocados. Now, as Avocados From Mexico celebrates its 10th anniversary, it’s an established, trusted brand with name recognition and a penchant for humorous advertising. Because the avocados are grown year-round in Michoacán, they’re able to market the product throughout the year and for top consumption occasions like Cinco de Mayo.

Did you know that 250 million pounds of avocados are consumed during the four weeks leading up to the Super Bowl? That’s enough to cover a football field with more than 75 feet of guacamole.

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“We’ve reinvented produce marketing in the U.S. and have essentially built a brand in a brandless category,” Luque says. “In ten years, we’ve doubled the market of Mexican avocado imports in the U.S. and tripled brand preference. We’ve also seen twenty-percent growth in foodservice market share, and a seven-percent increase in menu penetration across foodservice.” In October, to celebrate their impacts on the avocado industry, they cut the ribbon on a brand new AvoLab, just outside Dallas. This is a place they describe as a culinary playground where professionals can create, innovate and develop menu items featuring avocados. The lab has a cocina to host innovation sessions and shoot new recipe content; chef stations for demoing recipes and sharing education techniques; and a mixology lounge that can be used for culinary mixology classes, after-hours events or as a meeting space. “Friends from every corner of the industry came to celebrate with us and taste some new avo-inspired dishes,” Luque recalls. What comes out of AvoLab? Just about everything. How about a blended avocado margarita. Luque claims it’s a

pleasant drink with a smooth, creamy texture. “It’s just one of the new and innovative ways that people can use avocados that they may not have thought of before,” he says. In addition to AvoLab, they created AvoEatery, the first polished-casual pop-up avocado restaurant in Dallas, and AvoEats–the first sports concession avocado concept. The brand recently teamed with the L.A. Galaxy to open their fresh avocado concessions inside the team’s stadium. Luque says they worked with Levy Restaurants and Executive Chef Matthew Lindblom to create the avocado-infused menu. Fans can enjoy an elote cone, carne asada pizza, nacho quesadilla, and chips with salsa and avocados. Avocados From Mexico’s success story is one to envy. In the 10 years since its inception, the brand’s marketing efforts have increased to record levels with 8 out of every 10 avocados in the U.S. now originating in Mexico. This year, Avocados From Mexico will import nearly 2.5 billion pounds of avocados. avocadosfrommexico.com.

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A Mosaic Of Chalk, Vines, And Talent.

Every wine has a story to tell. In the case of Champagne Jacquart, every bottle plays a part in the overarching narrative of unwavering passion and authentically refined flavor palates. This unique collection of wines began in 1964, when thirty artisan winemakers sought to create a product that provided an exceptional experience with every sip. Their notable skills and extraordinary vineyards turned out to be the perfect pairing, yielding wines of the highest quality.

assembly lines out of the equation, Champagne Jacquart’s wines are crafted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting the distinct terroir of our vineyards. The grape varietals chosen, the specific microclimate of the region, the soil composition, and the winemaking techniques employed all contribute to the intricate tapestry of flavors and aromas found in a bottle bearing the Champagne Jacquart name.

Most accurately defined by the place and people who make it, the Champagne Jacquart of today has stayed true to its roots. It is a manifestation of the mosaic of chalk, vines and talent that brought the original vision to life.

Located on a magnificent vineyard that spreads over the entire Champagne appellation area, the winemakers have access to nearly 60 villages. These expansive plots present an unimaginable diversity of terroirs and a unique opportunity to bring them to life.

The complexity of these artisanal wines is a fascinating interplay of various factors that converge to create a unique and nuanced sensory experience. Leaving mass-production tactics and

Blending and assembling are key parts of the champagne creation. For Champagne Jacquart’s dedicated winemakers, this process lasts approximately three months, during which they taste and

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analyze 300 to 400 wines to ensure everything is exactly right. In the case of blended cuvées, the aim is to maintain the consistency of a style. Thanks to the fact that Champagne Jacquart has access to a great diversity of wines — from the latest harvest and also from the reserve wine collections they keep in their cellars — they are able to maintain a uniformity among the final products. On the contrary, specific cuvées, generally vintage wines, are made from a small number of terroirs. They reflect the characteristics of a particular harvest and tend to differ significantly from one edition to the next. Vinifying each grape variety from each terroir separately yields the most possible nuances in hues, aromas, and tastes among the Champagne Jacquart original wine assemblage. Offering a diverse range of champagnes in their portfolio, everyone from wine connoisseurs to novices will find something they can love and afford. That being said, the Mosaïque Brut is the company’s best-selling champagne. It also happens to do an exemplary job of expressing the brand’s overall style and philosophy par excellence. It is the champagne to start with when discovering Champagne Jacquart. Another emblematic cuvée in the artisan wine collection is the Blanc de Blancs — 100% chardonnay. As the king grape variety at Champagne Jacquart, they’ve been producing chardonnay since 1983. Back then, Blanc de Blancs wasn’t so fashionable! Champagne Jacquart brings optimism and energy to the world of champagne with a more relaxed approach to luxury. December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 36

For this young company, creating champagnes with a contemporary style and a graceful, refined character has been a significant part of the overall brand mission. And at the same time, allowing the winemakers’ pride for the fresh, luminous approach of their chardonnays is of importance as well. In alignment with that mantra of embracing innovation layered with tradition. Champagne Jacquart has created a mono-terroir collection. It started with a chardonnay, Chouilly grand cru 2014 (released 2019), followed by a chardonnay, Villers-Marmery premier cru 2016 (released 2022). Others are currently being aged in their cellars and will be released gradually over the next few years. These cuvées demonstrate the limitless possibilities offered by the expansive Champagne Jacquart vineyard. The intricate blending is a masterpiece in and of itself. The idea is to simultaneously highlight each solo mosaic piece while discovering an appreciation for the winery work of art in its entirety. Working every day to build upon their rich history, Champagne Jacquart is guided by unfailing optimism while looking resolutely to the future. This is reflected in the brand’s style, and the mosaic concept that enables them to see the whole picture through their blended cuvées; but also to zoom in and identify the typicity of their terroirs through our specific cuvées (Blanc de Blancs, Monocure moncépage). Champagne Jacquart was created by a group of winemakers who were also winelovers. And even though the company has grown since its inception, the human element has maintained a strong, significant presence. In 2024, this authentic wine company will celebrate their 60th anniversary! It is guaranteed to be a very important year filled with milestones and celebrations worth savoring. So raise your glasses and expectations because the best is yet to come for Champagne Jacquart. View the Champagne Jacquart collection of wines here.

Sip On This Insight: The concept of terroir, a term rooted in the French language and loosely translated as “sense of place,” plays a pivotal role in shaping the distinctive flavors of wine. The mineral content of the soil, amount of sunlight, temperature variations, and overall microclimate of a vineyard act as a sort of geographical DNA, shaping the identity of each wine and highlighting the interconnectedness between the land and the final product in the glass. Page 37 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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ROADSIDE TACO STUDIO CITY INTRODUCES RAMEN MENU AND COVERED, HEATED PATIO FOR THE WINTER SEASON Roadside Taco, the popular Studio City based Mexican-street style taqueria and bar by Blue Collar Hospitality, featuring Chef Lanny Marquez and owner Vincent Laresca, announces a new winter menu highlighted by Marquez specialty Ramen dishes and also introduces a new covered heated patio for the winter season. From Chef Lanny Marquez, Roadside Taco introduces a signature Ramen dish, highlighted as the Chicken Birria Ramen. Ingredients include Chicken Birria, Hot Tapatio Ramen, Onion, Cilantro, Avocado and Chipotle Aioli, among others in Lanny’s special formula. “We are always excited to add new, exciting and flavorful additions to our menu, expanding our offerings to our loyal customers. Ramen paired with Birria is definitely something Lanny has wanted to introduce for a while, and his dishes are absolutely delicious, he is a genius. I can’t wait for our patrons to taste it.” - Roadside Taco Owner/Founder, Vincent Laresca Their 3000 square foot Studio City flagship location consists of a large exterior dining patio, double-sided full service cocktail bar, an internal dining room, private back dining patio, and self-order taco station which remains a bustling scene daily for breakfast, brunch, lunch and dinner, residing in the heart of Studio City, minutes from Universal Studios. Page 39 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

Roadside Taco is also known for their comprehensive tequila and mezcal menu, as well as their extensive margarita menu inclusive of over 22 custom blended creations offered in novelty oversized tiki glasses. An adapted version of their popular Los Angeles concept will join the landscape of Fontainebleau Las Vegas as part of their new food Promenade this December. Roadside Taco’s Executive Chef Lanny Marquez has been cooking in the industry since the age of fifteen, where he was first immersed in the smells, sounds, and tastes of the culinary world. Having grown up in California he has always had a passion for the LA Taco culture, the melting pot of culinary traditions. Lanny hails from a family of chefs, raised with both a father and brother running kitchens, instilling the passion for cooking in Marquez at a young age. Lanny has worked alongside incredible chefs and cooks throughout his career, exchanging recipes and creating fresh takes on original staples all along the way. Lanny’s culinary vision for Roadside Taco was to have a complete immersion representing the best roadside tacos stands throughout Mexico. Lanny formerly worked as the Executive Chef at Rosa Mexicano and Pink Taco before he became a partner in Roadside Taco with seasoned operator and restaurateur Vincent Laresca. Roadside Taco is a food haven at heart taking their customers on a roadside taco journey through Mexico. Their authentic Mexican-inspired menu of street style tacos and shareable plates grab guests tastebuds with its casual, yet inspiring offerings. Some of their favorite signature highlighted taco offerings include their marinated chicken Chicken Birria Taco, Street Corn featuring chipotle aoli, cotija cheese, tajin and cilantro, Baja Fish Taco featuring Mahi Mahi marinated in Adobo, Chipotle slaw, avocado salsa and flour tortilla, Chorizo Taco, Hot Chicken Taco, Cochinita Pibil Taco, Classic Chicken Taco, Fried Fish Taco featuring Battered Cod Fish, Carnitas Taco, The Loaded Mulita Taco, Carne Asada Taco, Cauliflower Al Pastor Taco, Shrimp Taco, and another favorite being their vegan Mushroom Taco featuring Cremini Mushroom, Cilantro Vin, Oaxaca Cheese, Salsa Arbol, onion and, cilant-

ro, plus their signature Quesadilla Taco, Sonora Taco, and The Roadside Taco which features Turkey Picadillo, Mexicana Creme, Cilantro Vin, Lettuce, Arbol Salsa, Cheddar Cheese, Tomato and hard shell tortilla. They also offer Taco Platters and Taco Sampler Platters for larger groups. Their burrito menu is also quite large, with 9 signature burritos inclusive of meat, vegetarian and vegan offerings. They offer a Breakfast Burrito menu, a favorite of Roadsiders, inclusive of the El Chorizo Burrito, Chilaquiles Burrito and Bacon Egg & Cheese Burrito. Sides include homemade Molcajete, Arbol and Verde Salsas, Rice and Beans, Exquisite (Corn off the cob), Street Corn, Chips & Salsa, Guacamole, Queso Chorizo Dip, their signature Roadside Nachos, plus their popular Churros dessert and even a kids menu. About Roadside Taco / Blue Collar Hospitality Blue Collar Hospitality founded by industry veteran and notable actor Vincent Laresca, currently consists of the Los Angeles based Roadside Taco, Blue Collar bar and Cold Shoulder speakeasy. In addition to these three coveted niche venues, operator and restaurateur Laresca has both owned, partnered, and consulted on dozens of notable hospitality establishments across nightlife and restaurants for the last twenty five years. As an operator, he carefully chooses his partners based on skill and passion, and puts forth concepts that consist of a clear vision, stemming from a labor of love and a marketplace void. Roadside Taco is an established neighborhood favorite taqueria concept in Los Angeles’ Studio City offering authentic Mexican street tacos, burritos and bites; a menu constructed by partner and chef Lanny Marquez in conjunction with Laresca. The large patio and extensive tequila, mezcal and margarita bar attracts locals and tourists alike, with a welcoming and dynamic atmosphere welcoming residents with their children to the likes of Mark Walberg. Roadside Taco Studio City is located at 10628 Ventura Blvd, Studio City, CA 91604 with all menus and information available on their website at www.roadsidetaco.com and follow @RoadsideTaco on Instagram and social media channels.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 40

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Early-stage investment and growth can be daunting for entrepreneurial restaurateurs. Further, restaurant owners are challenged by rising costs associated with food ingredients, packaging, delivery, merchant service fees, labor, lease and utility costs just to name a few. The vast majority of restaurants are independent, and a singleunit operation, struggling through a steep learning curve and a funding gap for their first unit. Of all startups, less than 10% of get any funding at all, undercapitalization continues to be the greatest challenge for independent restaurateurs, and disproportionally so for underrepresented entrepreneurs. So just how does someone who operates a food truck concept turn it into a restaurant? How does a one-unit restaurant grow to two units, to 10 and then to 20 and beyond? The answer lies in strategic partnerships, access to industry-specific education and mentorship.

SEEK INVESTMENT PARTNERSHIPS THAT ARE VALUE-ADD. Before you look outward for investors, look inward first and make sure you are able to deliver more than promising financials and a unique food concept. You must go beyond the menu and demonstrate a culture that has a defined mission and vision to attract investors. Page 41 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

How does a one-unit restaurant grow to two units, to 10 and then to 20 and beyond? The answer lies in strategic partnerships, access to industryspecific education and mentorship.

When considering investors, it is important to think about what type of investor you are seeking. Who do you want sitting around your table as you grow and what will they bring to the table? Whether friends & family, angel investors, crowd raising – consider what you need and what in terms of involvement and value-add from your investors. A good rule of thumb is to assume an investor will bring more than a check, so be clear about your expectations and needs before you accept funds. If an investor is contributing expertise or operational support, set boundaries that include role definitions and scope of contribution. Having a partner that gives hands-on consulting and operational support is great, but you must proactively manage that

Even after an investor exits, the tools and skills attained through mentorship will remain and lead to the sustained success of the business.

relationship.

LOOK FOR PARTNERS THAT SUPPORT EDUCATION FOR YOU AND YOUR TEAM. Our industry is ripe for continued growth through a re-investment in people. Approximately 50% of Americans’ first jobs are in the restaurant industry, with 90% of managers beginning their careers as entry-level employees. Investors with industry experience will support and understand that investing in education for your team will not only improve retention, but also ultimately improve the customer experience. One of the most significant challenges faced by the restaurant industry is high staff turnover rates. By providing affordable training and continued resources to staff, restaurant operators and employees can find growth and success earlier in their careers by shortening the learning curve. Furthermore, cohesion among the team will lead to a better guest experience in your restaurant. With nearly 70% of restaurants being independently owned, sourcing resources to provide ongoing education can be challenging and expensive. Whether monthly bite-sized webinars, easy-to-digest video content, or deep-dive training for your entire team, you’ll need an investor who supports these initiatives.

PURSUE INVESTORS THAT CAN PROVIDE MENTORSHIP FOR YOU. Amid the fast-paced and high-stress environment of restaurants, the lack of mentoring in on-the-job training is unfortunately commonplace. Regular, scheduled mentorship from an experienced investor is beneficial because you’ll have to carve time out to be ready to face tough questions and have a guide to find the right solutions. Are you wearing too many hats as an owner/operator? Is it time to hand off one of those hats? What is your short-term, and three-year, and five-year plan? An investor who brings both money and expertise to the table may be a partnership that can bring solid footing for you to excel in the future. Further, experienced industry investors can also leverage their networks and connections in support of your endeavor. Even after an investor exits, the tools and skills attained through mentorship will remain and lead to the sustained success of the business.

Lauren Fernandez, Founder and CEO of Full Course Lauren Fernandez is the CEO and Founder of Full Course, a restaurant development and investment firm which incubates and accelerates emerging fast casual restaurant brands. Full Course guides restaurant owners through a process of optimization, strategic growth planning and development, and supports investment for rapid expansion. Learn more at FullCourse.com. Ms. Fernandez also leads The Fernandez Company, a consulting firm working with government, investors and companies providing expert guidance in franchise programs, licensing opportunities and developing consumer product lines. She is a trusted brand consultant and legal advisor in the restaurant and hospitality industry, from start-ups to multinational companies. More at TheFernandezCompany.com. As the co-founder and President of Origin Development Group, Ms. Fernandez has been both a multi-unit franchisee and investor, serving as a strategic growth partner for brands such as Chicken Salad Chick. Lauren previously served as the General Counsel for FOCUS Brands where she was instrumental in the rapid growth of the licensing and franchise programs. Lauren holds an undergraduate degree from Stetson University, as well as a Juris Doctorate and MBA from Emory University. A Florida native, she has called Atlanta home for almost two decades.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 42

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The OFF GRID VIP Viewing Suite At SUSHI ROKU at The Forum Shops welcomed Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster, Robert Kennedy Jr, and more The three-day viewing activation was an in-demand destination with prime views of The Strip Raceway Thursday - Saturday, November 18th, OFF GRID in collaboration with Innovative Dining Group presented their VIP Race Weekend Viewing suite at Caesars Palace’ The Forum Shops, featuring a flowing open bar featuring Wolfie’s Whisky, Casamigos, Red Bull, Peroni and Champagne Telmont. The event also featured the finest cuisine, including an elaborate raw bar, passed Boa Steakhouse Specialties and flowing Sushi Roku sushi and sashimi specialties. Golden Reserve Caviar offered a caviar bar on Thursday and Friday, while Saturday featured Imperia Caviar tastings. Music by POOKIE on Friday, November 17th and REIGN on Saturday, November 18th, with a closing set by DJ Whoo Kid post race on Saturday. The previous night, Robert Kennedy Jr and son Bobby Kennedy III hosted the lounge, making a guest appearance for guests and guest serving caviar to the crowd. Off Grid Founder Peter Klein and Innovative

Page 43 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

Dining Group Founder Lee Maen were both on hand for the festivities as well. Influencers and models such as Izzy Metz, Maryam Zohl, Fatima Cuellar, Isabel Marker Smith, Madison Brodsky, Taras Romanov, Sergio Farias and more as well as The Black Tape Project ambassadors popped by the suite to check out the incredible views of the Formula 1 straightaway.The event was produced by Hoozin, Peter Klein’s Off Grid and Capture Studios with IDG.

Sushi Roku is located on the top level of The Forum Shops at Ceasar’s Palace, with a prime view of the main straightaway. Breathtaking if you are familiar with the space, and a key race real estate spot for those avid race fans that want to be in the mix of the excitement, while still enjoying a luxurious atmosphere. Influencers, VIPs, entrepreneurs and racing fans celebrated at the three day viewing lounge, perched at the top of Caesar’s Forum Shops. Rod Stewart and Penny Lancaster along with his bandmates attended on Saturday, with Rod also hosting an intimate 30 person dinner in the Sushi Roku private room in collaboration with Haute Living following his performance that night alongside notable artist Johnathan Schultz.

Sushi Roku is located on the top level of The Forum Shops at Ceasar’s Palace, with a prime view of the main straightaway.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 44

Super large screens featuring the real time feed also filled the space in the non window areas and to create a true racing vibe, LED quality , with a raised platform built under the rear level booths to make stadium viewing possible for the large oversized windows which were kept open, and all the furniture by the front windows removed and replaced with floating high tops for cocktail style mingling. visit www.offgrid.vegas for more information

The event also featured the finest cuisine, including an elaborate raw bar, passed Boa Steakhouse Specialties and flowing Sushi Roku sushi and sashimi specialties. Page 45 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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Rhum Barbancourt Delivers An Authentic Taste of Haiti In 1862, Dupré Barbancourt founded a rum distillery in Haiti bearing his name. Striving to get the most possible delicate rum, he applied the traditional French distillation methods used in his native Cognac region to Haitian sugar canes.

Under Haitian weather conditions, the rhum needs 8 years to capture all of the oaky essences of the barrel, which is why Rhum Barbancourt 5 star ages 8 full years in Limousin oak, making it an XO rum.

Rhum Barbancourt’s grand specificity is to be distilled from pure cane juice while other Caribbean rums use molasses (a residue from the sugar-refining process that only carries the essences left over after sugar extraction). Sugar cane juice has a broader diversity of aromas than molasses, thus conveying a richer, more sophisticated savor. The raw material difference translates into the taste of the distilled rum.

Rhum Barbancourt is bottled at 86 proof because this strength allows its taste to spread more efficiently over the mouth. Combining intense oaky aromas with the mild flavors of Haitian cane, this powerful rum offers a perfect balance of flavors and a smooth finish. Its bold tones include fruity notes, as well as vanilla and pepper ones.

Sugar canes are crushed within 36 hours to ensure freshness. Their juice is then fermented with an exclusive Barbancourt yeast that brings out fruity aromas. Once distilled, the rum is left to age in Limousin oak barrels.

Loyal to its soil and history, Rhum Barbancourt remains faithful to the tradition and principles of its founder. For over 160 years, Rhum Barbancourt has been produced by the same family (now 5th generation) through the exact same process, using unaltered methods.

Aging in oak from Limousin (a forest lying 50 miles east of Cognac, the wood of which has distinctive properties) is practiced in the aging of the most delicate spirits, notably Cognac. It confers Rhum Barbancourt’s rare oaky aromas.

The terroir-driven profile of Rhum Barbancourt complex savor explains its popularity among rum connoisseurs and aficionados. Ideal for sipping neat at room temperature, Rhum Barbancourt is also perfect on the rocks with a splash of lemon.

Page 47 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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Celeb Fave Soda poppi Teams with iNNBEAUTY to Release a Sips & Lips Duo

Page 49 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

By Ryan Slattery

Looking for the perfect gifts this holiday season? How about popping a poppi variety pack under the tree or making a Sips & Lips Duo a stocking stuffer. To celebrate the holidays, poppi launched a limited-edition seasonal soda, Cranberry Fizz, to great success. The soda comes packaged in a bright festive holiday can. “Cranberry Fizz is our first ever limited-edition flavor, but something tells me we’re going to be doing a lot more of them in the future,” explained Allison Ellsworth, who founded poppi with her husband Stephen in 2020. “We sold out on Amazon in about a week. It’s festive, it’s bright, and it has a delicious punch of cranberry sweetness that I’m obsessed with. I’m so happy with how it came out and how our community has received it.” For the Sips & Lips Duo, the better-for-you viral prebiotic soda brand, poppi has partnered with iNNBEAUTY Project, Sephora’s fastest growing, clean skincare brand, who launched two fun limited-edition delectable shades to make lips pop this holiday season. Inspired by poppi’s iconic soda flavors, the first lip oil is a pink-tinted Raspberry Rose Glaze to match the floral hints of poppi’s best selling flavor, Raspberry Rose. The second, a very merry, red Cranberry Fizz Glaze pairs perfectly with poppi’s holiday flavor, Cranberry Fizz. For two of the buzziest brands on TikTok, the collaboration is the perfect marriage. “As iNNBEAUTY Project rapidly grows, we are always looking for new, innovative ways to bring our cult favorite products to new communities,” said Alisa Metzger, Co-Founder of iNNBEAUTY Project. “This collaboration with poppi is such a natural partnership, you can’t scroll through TikTok without seeing our Lip Glazes or poppi’s delicious sodas. We are proud to partner with a fellow female-founded brand like poppi; we align on so many things–bold, bright, and better for you formulations.” Beyond the Sips & Lips Duo release, poppi has introduced a new giftable variety pack that poppi fans and newcomers are sure to love. It features Cranberry Fizz combined with a few of the brand’s most iconic flavors: Ginger Lime, Cherry Limeade, and Doc Pop. The love affair with poppi started organically. Ellsworth was experiencing gut issues and was searching for something to help. The answer was apple cider vinegar but the taste alone wasn’t pleasant, “intense” Ellsworth said, so she started mixing it with fresh fruit juices and sparkling water. “After some experimentation, I realized what I had created was way too good to not share,” Ellsworth said. The healthy soda option (each can contains less than five grams of sugar and 25 calories or less) won over a Shark Tank investor and soon after found a celebrity following. “I didn’t want to have to sacrifice the things that bring me joy, like soda, in order to live a healthy lifestyle. That’s why we’re trying to redefine what soda is,” she said. “It doesn’t have to be filled with sugar and artificial ingredients to taste good, it can actually be the perfect complement to a balanced meal and enjoyed without a second thought.” The Sips & Lips Duo ($34) is available on innbeautyproject. com and sephora.com. poppi soda is available at drinkpoppi. com, Amazon, and retailers nationwide. Follow along on IG: @drinkpoppi, @allisonellsworth and @innbeautyproject December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 50

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Christmas in Italy is a magical time when the streets are adorned with twinkling lights, nativity scenes come to life, and the air is filled with the warmth of family and festivity. At the heart of these celebrations is the culinary tradition, where food plays a pivotal role in bringing loved ones together and creating unforgettable holiday memories. Let’s take a culinary journey through the traditional flavors and dishes that make an Italian Christmas a truly special experience. As Christmas traditions evolve with the modern world, some Italians still place a strong emphasis on preserving the authentic and timehonored recipes passed down through generations. While modern twists on classic dishes can be exciting, there’s a deeply ingrained respect for preserving the heritage and essence of Italian culinary traditions. Christmas in Italy is a celebration of faith, family, and the joy of coming together around the dinner table. Coming from a southern family, my experience with Christmas was especially based on the gathering of the whole family. Typically, there were no fewer than 25 people between adults and children. During the Christmas Eve dinner we sat at the table around 7pm and got up just before midnight, the time in which the procession began. Everybody stood up in line behind the youngest member of the family holding in his hand Baby Jesus and walked through the main rooms of the house singing Christmas carols, and at the end of the walk he placed him in the nativity scene. Following the ritual prayers, we all sat back at the table and opened the gifts under the tree. On Christmas Day, we sat down around 12 and finished lunch after about 4 hours, just enough time to remove the tablecloths full of crumbs and still sitting at the table, we started playing typical Christmas games such as bingo or the merchant at the fair. Then, around 7, we started dinner which mainly consisted of leftovers from lunch which were generally always abundant. Hence the famous saying that my grandmother always repeated: “When you sit at the table you don’t get old”. Page 51 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

As I mentioned In Italy, Christmas is typically celebrated with two main festive dinners: La Vigilia di Natale (Christmas Eve) and Il Pranzo di Natale (Christmas Day lunch). The amount an Italian family spends on food for these two days can vary widely depending on factors such as family size, income, personal preferences, and regional traditions. It is common for families to invest a considerable amount in highquality ingredients and traditional holiday dishes. This can include various types of meats, seafood, pasta, desserts, and, of course, special Christmas treats. The expenditure of Italians for lunch and Christmas dinner and will thus bring the overall cost of food purchases to exceed 2.8 billion euros. Each meal has its own traditions and origins. La Vigilia di Natale is often centered around seafood and vegetables, but the traditional dishes for Christmas Eve are very different throughout the Peninsula. NORTHERN REGIONS In Piedmont it’s not Christmas without agnolotti and mixed boiled meat, seasoned with sauces including bagnet ross and verd. Ravioli, green or meat, and cappon magro, a vegetable and fish dish, dominate the Ligurian tables: and if in Lombardy, surprisingly, one of the most traditional dishes is eel cooked in foil, in Veneto polenta is eaten with cod and boiled meat with sauces. In Friuli we go for brovada and muset, a turnip and cotechino soup, with polenta, and then tripe with sauce and cheese and capon, and in Trentino-Alto Adige there are dishes of canederli, roasted venison or kid and to finish the dish there is strudel or zelten, made with dried fruit and candied fruit. CENTER OF ITALY Tortellini and passatelli, strictly in broth, tagliatelle and lasagne, but also pumpkin and herb tortelli, and ham and culatello: this is Emilia Romagna, home of good cuisine, especially meat-based. Although there are exceptions: like Modena, where fish is eaten, especially preserved

fish. There you can enjoy spaghetti with tuna, mackerel, anchovies and tomato, but also stewed or fried cod. Cod fish is also the protagonist on Christmas Eve tables in Lazio, where mixed fried vegetables and capitone also abound. In Rome, at Vigilia, you can’t miss fish soup or pasta and broccoli in sprightly broth. There are also spaghetti with anchovies, fried or pickled eel and chicory salad. And finally: Torrone (nougat) and pampepato, with lots of dried fruit to munch on. At Christmas, however, baked lamb is made with potatoes and cappelletti in broth, but also boiled meat or turkey. In Molise we eat cardoon soup, brodetto alla Termolese, based on fish, and cod arracanato, made with breadcrumbs, garlic, bay leaves, oregano, raisins, pine nuts and walnuts, or the baked one with cabbage, parsley , breadcrumbs, raisins and nuts. Tuscans enjoy liver crostini, but also roast guinea fowl or duck and livers or stuffed capon. Bardiccio, a pork sausage spiced with fennel, is also cooked. Campofilone maccheroncini are traditional in the Marche, but also cappelletti in broth, as well as in Umbria where they are sometimes filled with capon and pigeon. Roast lamb and boiled beef, but also lasagne and soups are protagonists in Abruzzo. Typical of the Teramo area are caggionetti, fried sweet ravioli filled with almonds and chestnut puree. SOUTHERN TRADITIONS Capon broth, spaghetti with clams, friselle, stuffed capon with topping salad and then struffoli, roccocco and dried fruit, it’s Campania, which shows up in style for the Christmas holidays. For Christmas Eve many eat capitone, the female eel. The reason is easily explained: being very similar to a serpent, the capitone symbolizes the victory of men over Satan, who took the form of this animal to tempt Eve. There is no shortage of fish, meat and vegetables even in Basilicata, Calabria and Puglia. In the first, for the holidays, you eat escarole, cabbage and cardoon soup in turkey broth, and then boiled cod and bread with almonds. For dessert, we prepare the pescedde, sheets of pasta fried and seasoned with honey. Calabria shows off cured meats, from pancetta to capicollo, from soppressata to sausage, and then spaghetti with breadcrumbs and anchovies and kid or stockfish accompanied with sautéed Calabrian broccoli. On the other side of the country, turnip greens and breasts (or pittule) are made, which are leavened dough pancakes stuffed with tomatoes, capers, oregano and anchovies, but also shelled prawns, turnip greens and ricotta. We also eat roasted eel and fried cod and then baked lamb with lampascioni, which are slightly bitter onions. Finally, the desserts: turdilli or cannaricoli and pitta ‘mpigliata. In Sardinia you can taste culurgiones de casu, which are ravioli stuffed with tomato sauce, and then the inevitable malloreddus, semolina dumplings with sausage sauce. Salad of oranges, herring and onion, cardoons in batter, chicken in broth, pasta with sardines and beccafico reign supreme in Sicily. We also make sfincione, a typical onion-based pizza, which goes well with cardoons in batter and chicken in broth. Many desserts: from buccellati to cassata and cannoli.

Attilio Borra Chef, Food Advisor, Editorialist Passion moves the world and other stars, and it is precisely the passion that over the years has led Chef Attilio Borra to commit himself with dedication and professionalism to the world of food. Born in Puglia, the “hill” of the Italian boot, since he was a child, as often happens, he got immediately involved with the food activity thanks to his family and his mother. They reveal to him the aromas and flavors of Mediterranean cuisine within the walls of the house and on the stalls of the local fresh market; so among the scents of the homemade tomato sauce, the fragrance of the fresh orecchiette, the crunchiness of nonna’s famous meatballs, and a good pasticciotto with custard and black cherry, Chef Attilio began his great journey. He was still a teenager when he left his home for the first time to move in Belgium, first to Antwerp and then to Brussels, to gain experience in international restaurants. At the age of 18 he then landed in the United States where he completed his college studies in LA. and started to work in Italian restaurants bringing know-how but above all his culture, creativity, and innovation in the dishes he prepared. It was precisely the desire to innovate and to study new recipes that led him to notice the changing in the food industry and consequently in the eating habits of the consumers. So, after 35 years behind the kitchens, at the age of 50, he decided to go back to school, to further deepened his culinary studies. He graduated and specialized on: Gluten Free Baking, Healthy Eating, Nutrition, Food preservation. Today he’s a private Chef and a consultant for several Italian producers but most importantly he’s an Ambassador of the Italian Cuisine in the world and a Qualified Expert on Health food, Nutritional Aspects and Cooking Techniques. He’s been very active domestically by been a speaker at conferences and seminars to raise awareness among the audience. It was 2 years ago that his path crossed the F&B magazine, and their common ideas and initiative on food were shown through the activity on the social network ClubHouse. Today Chef Attilio is also an editorialist of the magazine, this column is a great opportunity to share with all the readers his passion. He will explore with you the various aspects of food that make it such a unique and special experience: the importance of passion, origins, nutrition, tradition and unique ingredients in creating a memorable dining experience. His favorite quote is: “Food is an essential part of our daily life. It is not only a source of nourishment, but also a mean of expression, culture and tradition. When I cook I speak a universal language that connects people from different parts of the world. A good meal can evoke emotions, memories and experiences that last a lifetime.”

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 52

Today’s recipe Stuffed Eggplant (vegetarian version) Among the typical southern recipes that are made for Christmas Eve dinner there are stuffed eggplants. A simple dish and easy dish to prepare, that has old origins. Depending on the region, the filling of the eggplants can change, in some regions they use meat, in others they make them vegetarian. Below is the recipe for the vegetarian version, ideal for the Christmas Eve dinner. •

We start by washing the eggplants well, then first remove the end with the stem with a sharp knife and cut them in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, extract the pulp and temporarily set it aside.

•

Place the egglants on a baking tray lined with parchment paper; add a little salt and a drizzle of oil, then put in a preheated oven and cook at 180° Celsius (350° F) for 25-30 minutes. Then let it cool.

•

In the meantime, prepare the filling: In a bowl beat 4 eggs add a little salt and pepper.

•

Cut the remaining pulp of the eggplant into small pieces and place it in a large pan we heat a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and half a chopped onion.

•

When the onion is golden, add the eggplant pulp and cook for a few minutes.

•

Once also the pulp has reached a nice golden color, add the eggs and mix everything together until the eggs are fully cooked.

•

Fill the eggplant with this mixture and add top it with a little tomato sauce, a generous sprinkling of grated parmesan and a drizzle of oil to each one and chopped parsley.

•

Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes. Serve still hot after a few minutes of rest.

I hope you enjoyed my journey into Italian Christmas, I wish you all a peaceful Christmas together with your loved ones and I hope that my recipes can bring that touch of tradition to your table too. So, until next month, I’ll see you in the Kitchen. Ciao. Page 53 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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Iron Chef, Jose Garces Shares Tips and Tricks for an Unforgettable Holiday Meal As the holiday season approaches, we crave festive flavors and cherished recipes that bring friends and family together. We’re taking a page out of Chef Jose Garces’ cookbook this season! As an Iron Chef, James Beard Award Winner, and a 2023 appointee to President Biden’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition, Chef shares a glimpse into his personal holiday traditions that blend the classics with innovative twists. His approach to holiday cooking reflects a deep respect for familial traditions while embracing the joy of culinary exploration. INTRODUCTION TO HOLIDAY TRADITIONS Chef Garces often says that the holidays aren’t complete without slow roast pork. This dish was a crucial part of his childhood holiday season. In his home, the big meal is typically on Christmas Eve, allowing Christmas Day to be more about spending time with family and less about cooking. He speculates that had he grown up with a quicker-to-prepare dish, perhaps Christmas dinner would have been on Christmas Day itself. In addition to the Garces family slow roast pork tradition, a treasured recipe at Chef’s holiday table is his version of his mother’s mashed potatoes. Simple, comforting, and a taste of home, they are a mainstay alongside other variations of mashed potatoes.

Page 55 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

EASY YET IMPRESSIVE SIDES For sides that are simple but impactful, Chef Garces recommends two of his favorite hors d’oeuvres, bacon-wrapped dates with a blue cheese sauce or serrano ham-wrapped figs. These quick and delicious sides can be prepped ahead of time and reheated for guests. Pro tip: kick it up a notch with a drizzle of sherry vinegar. MAIN COURSE MAGIC For the main course, Garces experiments by infusing traditional dishes with unexpected flavors. A personal favorite twist is adding a chorizo stuffing to the center of a slow-roasted pork loin, elevating a classic holiday centerpiece with bold, new tastes. DESSERTS WITH A TWIST Moving to desserts, Chef Garces brings a modern spin to a classic with torrijas, a Spanish version of French toast. Served with cinnamon whipped cream, candied nuts, and orange zest, this dish promises a sweet and savory end to any holiday feast. ENCOURAGING HOME COOKS Garces advises home cooks to avoid trying new dishes for the first time during the main holiday dinner to reduce stress.

Instead, experimenting with side dishes can be a safe way to spread your cooking wings. His suggestions include: 1. Using crumbled chorizo instead of bacon in brussels sprouts 2. Something as simple as dinner rolls can be made extra special by including cheese or spices in the dough. 3. Mashed potatoes are great and belong on every table, but other vegetables can be used to make delicious purees. From sweet potatoes to celery root to parsnips or squashes. INGREDIENT SPOTLIGHT Holiday meals don’t always have to center around a roast, there is no rule that says that you *have* to have a roast for your holiday dinner. Chef suggests exploring options like lasagna, casseroles, fish, or seafood to supplement and make your main dish unique. The traditional Feast of the Seven Fishes can provide great inspiration for a standout meal. He also highlights underutilized ingredients like celery root and parsnips for making purees as an alternative to traditional potatoes. THE CHEF’S HOLIDAY TABLE This year, Chef Garces looks forward to celebrating the holidays among friends and family in Miami, hoping to enjoy treasured dishes like lechon and empanadas. LOOKING AHEAD Finally, Garces anticipates future holiday trends, foreseeing a rise in plant-based options and a split between traditionalists and those embracing newer, more inclusive culinary practices. Chef Jose Garces’ insights paint a vivid picture of a holiday table that is both deeply rooted in tradition and boldly innovative.

“I think that there will end up being two viewpoints on holiday meals: one side that will stick with more traditional meals that harken back to warm memories of childhood, but another side that will break away from traditions to be more inclusive of other eating habits and traditions” said Chef Jose Garces. His approach to holiday cooking is a testament to the power of food in bringing people together, creating memories, and celebrating the joy of the season.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 56

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SNAX-SATIONAL BRANDS, LEADING SNACK CPG INNOVATORS, Announce Mike Hagan as CEO and Scott Peterson as EVP Finance In Board and Brand Transition

Florida-based snack incubator and snack CPG innovator, SNAX-Sational Brands, founders and developers of the notable Cookie Pop, Candy Pop and Cereal Pop snacking titles dominating the popcorn space, as well as gluten-free snacking leader Pasta Snacks, officially announced in late November (11.28.23), that Mike Hagan joined the company as CEO, and Scott Peterson joined as EVP Finance. The portfolio, focused in the snacking space, ..”will continue to expand and develop its popular flavor varieties, evolving key flavors and best sellers, in collaboration with retail partners” according to the press release distributed. Chief Executive Officer Mike Hagan joins SNAX-Sational Brands with over 30 years of experience in the Food & Beverage Industry. Hagan is a Global Management Executive and Business Development Expert successful in driving domestic and international business units to consistently deliver superior top-line growth and profit results, while building world-class brands, leadership teams and organizational capabilities. Demonstrated ability to develop financially sustainable advantage through development and

Chief Executive Officer Mike Hagan Page 59 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

execution of long-term strategies across multiple markets that maximize growth and shareholder value, and strengthen market presence for brands. including Coca-Cola, PepsiCo and National Beverage. Having spent time in leadership roles at PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, National Beverage as well as start ups GinnyBakes Organics and Cheribundi; he possesses large company functional expertise with small company DNA, and transforms underperforming organizations to deliver significant bottom-line impact. “I am extremely excited to join the team at SNAX-Sational and honored to align with such an innovative brand group creating steady momentum in the indulgent snacking aisle through top level partnerships with Mars, Post Cereal, Mondelez and The Ferrero Group, leveraging emerging consumer taste profiles, and further expanding and strengthening commercial presence.” - Mike Hagan, CEO, SNAX-Sational Brands Financial Executive Scott Peterson joins SNAX-Sational Brands as Executive Vice President Finance with over 35 years of experience leading turnaround and transformative strategies

EVP Finance: Scott Peterson

with middle market companies in transition. As a respected business executive, he has led maximum value extraction from organizations through targeted change management, strategic planning, financial eloquence, operations improvements and rigorous due diligence. Career stints at KPMG followed by a role as CFO and senior financial management assignments at ADP, Randstad, DHL, Proudfoot, Viasource Communications, Miami Air International, ACM Capital Partners, H.I.G. Capital, and PE firm Sunbelt Diversified Enterprises. In these important roles, Peterson became adept at leading strategic acquisitions, rebuilding balance sheets, maximizing enterprise values and shareholder returns, managing cash flows and identifying cost and growth drivers. “I am thrilled to join the SNAX-Sational Brands team and look forward to working alongside Mike , creating value and accelerating enterprise growth “. -Scott Peterson ,EVP Finance. The Brands at SNAX-Sational include the popular Cookie, Candy and Cereal Pop, and Pasta Snacks’ Penne Straws, among others. SNAX-Sational Brand’s premiere popcorn brands are composed of the popular Cookie Pop and Candy Pop varieties. Since its debut, it has become America’s #1 popcorn brand, featuring flavors such as Cookie Pop made with OREO® cookie pieces, Cookie Pop made with NUTTER BUTTER® and Cookie Pop made with CHIPS AHOY!® cookie pieces, Candy Pop made with M&M’s® Minis candy pieces, Candy Pop made with SNICKERS®, Candy Pop made with Sour Patch Kids®, Candy Pop made with TWIX® candy pieces, Candy Pop made with Butterfinger® candy pieces, plus Cereal Pop made with FRUITY PEBBLES® and Cereal Pop made with COCOA PEBBLES®. They are the leader in the industry as a sweet & savory pioneer, combining delicious signature candy flavors and cookie coatings with low-sodium, non-GMO corn, at only 150 calories per serving. With retail partners such as Kroger, Publix, Save-A-Lot, Safeway, Albertsons, H.E.B.Shoprite. You can also locate their special edition holiday flavors through their Ecomm Store finder, www.cookiepopcandypop.com. SNAX-

Sational Brands Group premier popcorn brand also introduced its newest portfolio expansion in February 2023, Cereal Pop, joining sister brands Cookie Pop and Candy Pop, featuring instant flavor favorites, Cereal Pop made with FRUITY PEBBLES® and Cereal Pop made with COCOA PEBBLES®. A portion of all proceeds go to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation and their work with children’s hospitals nationwide, an official brand charity partner, since the give back program launched in 2021. Follow on social media @ CookiePop_CandyPop #CerealPop across all channels. PENNE STRAWS by Pasta Snacks has become a consumer favorite over the last few years, gaining attention as the go-to chip alternative, created by successful food industry entrepreneur Jerry Bello under his SNAX-Sational Brand Group umbrella. The delicious taste, perfect crunch, and low-calorie ingredients are offered in the shape of actual penne pasta noodles. They are gluten free, seasoned to perfection, and offered in a variety of tasty plant-based flavors such as Cinnamon Churro, Marinara, Lemon Garlic, Mac & Cheese and Sweet Pepper, inclusive of three vegan flavors. Made with all-natural ingredients inclusive of Lentils & White Beans, the snack is non-GMO, OUD Kosher certified, and cholesterol-free. Crafted from durum wheat semolina flour and farro, a higher protein grain for a more nutrient-dense product and baked with fine seasonings. The results are a robust taste and crispy texture throughout. The low calorie snacks are a gently baked, healthy snack option for the entire family to enjoy. Available at top food retailers like WEIS Markets, ACME Markets, Jewel-Osco and more, as well as via E-comm purchasing at www. pastasnacks.com at $3.99 for a 6oz bag. A portion of all Pasta Snacks proceeds are be donated to the Ryan Seacrest Foundation across all flavor varieties throughout 2021. Consumers can enjoy healthy, feel good snacking with a purpose! Follow on social media @eatpastasnacks #PENNESTRAWS across all channels. For brand inquiries, additional information and interviews, please contact Snax@theinfluence.com

“I am thrilled to join the SNAX-Sational Brands team and look forward to working alongside Mike , creating value and accelerating enterprise growth.” -Scott Peterson , EVP Finance.

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Glass Ceiling NoMad Introduces Holiday Specials and Christmas Decor Ambiance Manhattan’s Popular Rooftop Lounge Is The Perfect Holiday Dining Experience in NYC The Glass Ceiling venue, offering a restaurant and bar in NoMad, is the perfect holiday destination for dining and cocktails, also offering an incredible weekend brunch menu. With their retractable glass ceiling rooftop (perfect for Summer), sitting atop the city skyline, their views are unmatched. The inviting rooftop lounge is located in the heart of the NoMad district, which has been growing in popularity over the last year with so many hotspots and notable hotels within a few block radius. The design elements add a glamorous touch to the botanical theme, with a marble bar, concrete surfaces and rattan accents. The space is multidimensional transforming daily from day to night, the perfect happy hour lounge with light bites and cocktails to an intimate, curated events space. Featuring indoor and outdoor seating, showstopping views of the Empire State Building, and an escape from the everyday urban routine. The venue is designed to evoke a comfort and airy feel, offering an inviting atmosphere for guests to mix, mingle and enjoy drinks and food amongst friends and peers. Their beautiful space is the perfect backdrop for events, offering an unmatched venue in this part of Manhattan due to their open atrium views and retractable roof. They have a top level events team and catering menus to suit any need, offering the perfect event space. Located at 1204 Broadway on the 5th floor, between 29th and 30th streets, they are open Tuesday through Sunday, with expanded hours on weekends for brunch. They recently introduced their holiday menu and gave the space a beautiful holiday ambiance with glistening Christmas trees, lights and seasonal decor to lift anyone’s spirits and for the perfect photo Page 61 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

and event backdrop. Their signature cocktail tree has been a favorite of patrons this season, featuring a multi level presentation of cocktails presented in a tree formation and table centerpiece. Their holiday cocktails are delightful and compliment the ambiance. The Lavender Haze, The Ginger Rush and The Espresso Martini, Spicy Sandia and Frozen Lemon Drop among others, are must-order cocktails. Their brunch also offers bottomless Mimosas, Bellinis, Sangria, or Pink Grapefruit Mimosas. An extensive wine, champagne and cocktail list is offered at all times. Delicious cuisine is offered nightly, as well as their special weekend brunch menu, featuring items like Croque Monsieur, Rose Gold Pancakes, Truffle Mac and Cheese, Disco French Toast, Avocado Toast, Croissant Egg Sandwich and the Glass Ceiling Smash Burger, among many other offerings. A bottomless menu with an assortment of drink offerings also can be paired during brunch, as well as their favorite Bird Cage presentation featuring champagne cocktails and macaroons. The brunch menu kicks off at 10:30am on weekends, and weekdays they open at 4pm. Their dinner and happy hour menus feature favorites such as Short Rib, Herb Crusted Chicken, Lemon Garlic Halibut, Burrata and Fig & Cheddar Flatbreads, Panzanella, Salads, Buffalo Cauliflower Sandwich, and more. Their beautiful Cheese Boards are a guest favorite, as well as an assortment of starters. Another must-try is their signature Mango Cheesecake dessert. Visit them online at www.glassceilingnomad.com for reservation and dining info, and follow on social media @glassceilingnomad

The venue is designed to evoke a comfort and airy feel, offering an inviting atmosphere for guests to mix, mingle and enjoy drinks and food amongst friends and peers.

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TECH DRIVEN TACTICS FOR RESTAURANT GROWTH AND LONGEVITY

Most people think the hardest part of being a restaurateur is creating a successful concept, but the real challenge lies in sustaining restaurant growth once there has been some initial momentum. After independent restaurant operators prove their concepts, open more locations, and enter new markets, the tricky part is then figuring out how to duplicate the concept and deliver a consistent experience at scale. When even large chains like Sweetgreen are struggling to create sustainable business models while expanding, what’s a smaller multi-unit operator to do? Fortunately, technology can supercharge your restaurant expansion strategy and make it sustainable.

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4 Ways to Use Technology to Sustain Restaurant Growth Future-proof, automation-focused technology may be the key to growing your restaurant empire at a pace you can keep up with. Here are several ways technology can help sustain restaurant expansion.

1. Use Tech That Fosters Simplicity, Not Complexity Restaurateurs often think that adding new solutions makes operations more complicated; but the right tech should actually simplify operations. For example, adding a digital staff scheduling solution can seem so much more complicated than simply writing down the staff schedule each week. Why reinvent the wheel when you’ve been doing things the same way for years? Because your recipe for success may not be sustainable when you begin managing multiple locations. As you scale, scheduling staff digitally can automate much of the process for you, and allow staff to easily make changes themselves – all of which translates to fewer headaches for management. Fortunately, most restaurant tech solutions are designed with familiar, intuitive interfaces and come with training resources, which will help employees catch on quickly. When you open brand new locations, you can train staff on these

new systems from the start. The sooner you implement processes that make operations more efficient, the more time and resources you’ll save as the business grows.

2. Find Solutions That Open Up New Revenue Streams The best way to sustain restaurant growth is to find new opportunities for business expansion. That doesn’t just mean using data to identify where to open your next location. It means using technology to explore untapped revenue streams at your existing locations to bring in more profits. An online ordering system, for example, can open your business up to a whole new set of customers who are looking for takeout and delivery. According to TouchBistro’s State of Restaurants in 2023 Report, 25% of restaurants’ business is done via online ordering platforms. If each of your restaurants generates $50,000 in monthly revenue and you have 10 locations, introducing online ordering could generate an extra $1.5 million in revenue each year. Think about other ways to introduce new revenue streams

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to your business. For example, you could sell branded merch and non-perishable food items in stores and online, or even launch catering services.

3. Prioritize Tech That Helps Automate Everyday Tasks You might think you should focus on flashy new restaurant tech like AI order recommendations or drive-thru voice assistants to bolster restaurant expansion, but these solutions aren’t always as impactful as more sensible solutions that take everyday tasks off your plate. For example, using payroll software to speed up payday processes may not be as exciting as a burger-flipping robot, but the time saved on admin each week will give you back more time overall. If you have a limited budget for implementing tech at your restaurants, prioritize solutions that automate the most time-consuming, repetitive tasks. Even something as simple as choosing a POS that lets you add QR codes to receipts so diners can pay from their phones can make a big difference. Diners don’t have to wait for a server to run their card or make change, which can improve table turnover times. As a result, servers are free to focus on more meaningful tasks, like answering questions or providing recommendations

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4. Make Future-Proof Solutions Part of Your Restaurant Expansion Strategy

If you’re already focused on scaling your business, you should choose tech that will continue fueling your restaurant growth strategy,equipped to handle your changing needs as you scale. In other words, make decisions based on where you anticipate the business will be in the future, not just where it is today. For example, choose the best restaurant POS that can support a dozen future locations, rather than just the three you already have. Look for a reservation system that will cross-promote sister locations when the venue customers had in mind is booked solid. Implement a loyalty program that can incentivize customers to visit other locations. -With an intentional restaurant growth strategy and the right technology, you can scale your business from one location to an empire. TouchBistro all-in-one POS and restaurant management system has multi-location solutions that can support you along the way.

MUSIC MATTERS TO YOUR CUSTOMERS NEW STUDY CONFIRMS MUSIC CAN INCREASE REVENUE AND BUILD CUSTOMER LOYALTY

89%

OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT GOOD MUSIC MAKES A MORE MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE

NEARLY

86%

70%

WOULD RECOMMEND THE ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY ENJOY THE MUSIC

86%

WOULD RETURN TO AN ESTABLISHMENT IF THEY LIKED THE FEATURED LIVE MUSIC

80%

OF MILLENNIALS SAID THAT HAVING NO MUSIC NEGATIVELY IMPACTS THEIR EXPERIENCE

SAY THAT MOST OF THE RESTAURANTS AND BARS THEY FREQUENT HAVE MUSIC PLAYING

IF GOOD MUSIC IS PLAYING FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW TO OBTAIN A BMI MUSIC LICENSE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.BMI.COM/EDE

NEARLY 80% WILL STAY LONGER

NEARLY 60% WILL BUY MORE FOOD OR DRINKS

70% MILLENNIALS 63% GEN X 56% GEN Z

BAR AND RESTAURANT OWNERS WEIGH IN

“

CHECK AVERAGE TENDS TO GO UP 5 TO 10% JUST BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE GETTING THAT 2ND OR 3RD DRINK. REVENUES HAVE JUMPED ALMOST 25% ON THE NIGHTS THAT WE HAVE LIVE MUSIC. -BRIAN BREWERY OWNER, COLORADO AND UTAH

”

“

WITH LIVE MUSIC (…) THERE WERE MORE LIQUOR SALES, AND THAT’S A 75% PROFIT MARGIN. -THOMAS OWNER, FAMILY ITALIAN RESTAURANT ATLANTA, GA

”

“

THE MORE UPBEAT, THE BETTER CHANCE FOR AN UPSELL, THE BETTER CHANCE THEY WANT TO STAY A LITTLE LONGER.

-CHRISTOPHER VINEYARD OWNER AND TASTING ROOM OPERATOR LOS ANGELES, CA

”

TO VIEW THE COMPLETE SURVEY, VISIT https://www.bmi.com/pdfs/publications/2023/bmi-value-music--research-analysis.pdf * A QUANTITATIVE ONLINE STUDY BY BMI AND NATIONAL RESEARCH GROUP (NRG) WAS ANSWERED BY 1,000 NATIONALLY REPRESENTATIVE PEOPLE AGE 21+ WHO REGULARLY VISIT EDES (AT LEAST 3X PER MONTH). TO REPRESENT THE B2B PERSPECTIVE, NRG CONDUCTED SIX IN-DEPTH-INTERVIEWS WITH OWNERS, OPERATORS AND MANAGERS OF BARS AND RESTAURANTS.

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Restaurateur Guillaume Guedj Brings Modern French Flare to Los Angeles with Mr.T Paris, and Launches New Cocktail Program Led by Expert Mixologist Vay Su The popular high end Paris-originated hotspot by Restaurateur Guillaume Guedj thrives in Los Angeles, featuring Mr. T’s top level cuisine by acclaimed Chef Alisa Vannah, their second outpost for the brand which just celebrated its one year anniversary. Now, they introduce mixologist Vay Su. Vay Su, a seasoned bartender with more than 15 years of expertise, currently taking over the mixology at Mr. T for a new cocktail program. Vay’s approach is distinctive, blending time-honored fundamentals with contemporary methods, infused with an Asian flavor to create beautifully balanced cocktails. His talents have taken him on a nationwide journey, where he became a winner in numerous cocktail competitions, including the prestigious Heaven Hill’s Bartender of the Year award in 2020.” The concept of Mr. T was created by French restaurateur Guillaume Guedj and offers French cuisine in a way Los Angeles has never seen before, authentic to the culture of Paris, with a delicious menu of offerings that have its patrons returning regularly to the familial spot. Located in the blossoming Sycamore Street neighborhood at 953 N Sycamore Street, just south of Santa Monica Blvd, of which Guillaume saw parallels to the Marais district of Paris where the original remains an in demand restaurant and cocktail destination. The restaurant concept was created with partner Chef Tsuyoshi Miyazaki, – (Where “Mr.T” originates) – with a menu inspired by their worldly travels and late night French discoveries, reflective of classic French techniques with a modern twist. They brought street food to the table in an elegant and elevated interpretation, inviting diners on a culinary journey for the palette, and what they have denoted as “Modern French.”

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Expert Mixologist Vay Su

Vay’s approach is distinctive, blending time!honored fundamentals with contemporary methods, infused with an Asian flavor to create beautifully balanced cocktails. Executive Chef Alisa Vannah has led the cuisine at the Los Angeles restaurant location since inception. In 2021, Guillaume invited Alisa to work with Chef Tsuyoshi Miyazaki at the original Mr. T in Paris, to prepare for the opening of Mr. T Los Angeles, where she oversees the kitchen as Executive Chef. Located in Los Angeles’ chic Sycamore neighborhood, Mr. T Los Angeles at the hand of Alisa, who served as sous chef previously at Republique for a total of 8+ years, with stints at Chi Spacca and Tsubaki, serves up globally-inspired dishes executed with flawless French technique. Mr. T’s incredible wine collection was relocated from his former two Michelin star restaurant in Paris, Passage 53, offering patrons a oneof-a-kind Los Angeles wine experience. Their new mixology program launched in November 2023, and also includes exquisite cocktail creation and taste at the hands of their new world class mixologist, Vay Su. Vay is a seasoned bartender with over 15 years of expertise, with an approach “..of blending time-honored fundamentals with contemporary methods, infused with Asian flavor to create beautifully balanced cocktails.” Open Tuesday - Saturday, Mr. T is a familial environment, with its entire staff having been with them since opening in 2021. They offer a large al fresco dining patio, a seated indoor dining room, an exterior lounge area, indoor beautiful bar and shared chef’s table, large VIP-style booths, and a back private dining room with a patio extension that even offers a private rear entrance. On Tuesdays they have their popular Mr. Tuesday music programming, typically featuring DJ MOS with thematics like Motown or 90s hip hop. On Wednesdays, they have launched their popular Wine Wednesdays with a 50% off wine selection menu, and Thursdays feature a Jazz Band once per month. Guedj’ first hospitality endeavor began in 2010, when he called on his friend, Japanese chef Shinichi Sato, to open a restaurant. His vision was to bring French cuisine into the 21st century, providing a fresh, contemporary take, with the famed Passage 53. The concept quickly became one of the most desirable dining rooms in Paris, earning 2 Michelin stars. Guillaume’s time at Passage 53 took him to restaurants and vineyards in cities across the world where he was able to foster relationships

with purveyors and fellow restaurateurs. During his travels and after many late nights spent discovering the street food of each region he found himself in, Guillaume began to wonder what a restaurant that drew on these experiences and global flavors could look like. After 10 years at the helm of Passage 53, which was renowned as one of the top 100 restaurants in the world across various accolades, he decided to shift his focus to a new concept, the globally-inspired and French-rooted, Mr.T. Upon opening in Paris’ Marais-district in 2017, the restaurant rapidly became a must visit destination in the city. With Mr. T, Guillaume brought street food to the table and invited guests on a culinary journey for the palette exploring new flavors and unfamiliar cultures, establishing a cult following for their gastronomic street food interpretations. Following the booming success of the Paris location, Guillaume sought out a US expansion of the concept, landing on Los Angeles’ blossoming Sycamore neighborhood due to the parallels he saw to the Marais. He relocated to Los Angeles to launch the restaurant, opening Mr. T Los Angeles’ doors in August 2022, while his original Paris dining room remains a city hotspot.

NEW SIGNATURE COCKTAILS: “HOW DO YOU WANT IT”

Bourbon, French Aperitif, Peach, Almond, Citrus

“SKY’S THE LIMIT”

El Cristiano Tequila, Mezcal, Basil Eau de Vie, Lemongrass, Ginger, Galangal, Chili, Tomato Water, Citrus

“C.R.E.A.M”

Cognac, Calamansi, Yuzu, Champagne

“93 TIL INFINITY”

Rye Whiskey, oolong tea, pandan, coconut water, walnut bitters

Follow @MrTLarestaurant on social media and visit https://www. mrtrestaurants.com/ for more information. Reservations can also be made on OpenTable.

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Caroline D’Amore, who you may have recently seen starring on Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars on Fox, has worked tirelessly to make her dream of Pizza Girl come to life, and she has been doing just that by building an incredible empire. Her Pizza Girl sauce brand can be found at all the top supermarkets nationwide, from Albertson’s to Bristol Farms to Whole Foods, and now she introduces her first brand expansion, the Pizza Girl Grill, after much anticipation and inspiration from Gordon Ramsay himself. The Pizza Grill is the ultimate upgrade for easy homemade pizza at home. Her compact, lightweight countertop designed pizza grill is sure to be a game changer for her brand, and consumers alike. It features top and bottom heating elements, paired with a ceramic stone base, allowing consumers to make perfect pizza in under 5 minutes with minimal effort, up to 12 inches in diameter. Dual heating controls mean you can adjust for crispy or chewy on the bottom and bubbly on top.

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The ultimate upgrade for easy homemade pizza - It is a compact, lightweight countertop pizza grill that is a game changer. Users can make incredible 12inch pizzas with fresh or frozen dough, premade pizza bases or your favorite frozen pizzas in any kitchen.

The ultimate upgrade for easy homemade pizza - It is a compact, lightweight countertop pizza grill that is a game changer. Users can make incredible 12-inch pizzas with fresh or frozen dough, pre-made pizza bases or your favorite frozen pizzas in any kitchen. D’amore promises - Fresh, hot, authentic pizza - in minutes. Retail is $158.00 and ordering via her website is now open. D’Amore grew up in Malibu as one of 4 daughters of the D’Amores Pizza Family. Cooking and sharing her chef skills were always top of mind for her, a passion she had as a young girl. Her Grandmother taught her the value of the “sauce” as the secret to all Italian cooking. She used her

pasta sauce in everything! Caroline took what she knew best and made it her own to share with a new generation of home cooks, reimagining these recipes and adding her own touch, with the launch of her Pizza Girl Sauces, a journey she began 5 years ago. They are 100% organic made from the finest ingredients to offer customers a clean, delicious product, packed with flavor and good for your diet. Her sauces can now be found in over 2,000 stores, plus her ecommerce platform, and D’Amore can be seen doing appearances all over the country, meeting with customers during in-store demos, tasting events and food fairs - a true entrepreneur.

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Since our cover a few years ago, what have you been up to? Being on the cover of Food and Beverage Magazine was truly a dream come true. Pizza Girl has come a long way since then being in over 2,000 supermarkets and growing plus our e-commerce business has grown overnight! From the Gordon Ramsay show to the celebrity endorsements of Pizza Girl it’s been such an exciting journey. Each year I say look back at last year. Have you grown and evolved? Yes? Then you are on the right track. Keep going, never give up and it will happen. There’s no other option.

What made you launch the pizza girl grill? What was the inspiration? I felt the market was missing an easy way to make Pizzas at home. All the ovens out there are expensive and a lot of work. As a mom I really wanted something better to offer. My dad and I had posted a video about how best to reheat pizzas at home for best taste, and then my business partner called from Australia - where apparently every other house has these tiny oven that make pizzas – and there is nothing like this in America - so we decided to make one that works even better with style and ease, so not only serves a function but is aesthetically something you want to show off in your kitchen, with only adds to the experience. So we did just that! And people are absolutely freaking out over them!!! The pink color was a game changer as well, and keeps in line with my brand.

What do you love about what you do, pizza, this industry? I believe as an Italian woman, we grow up wanting to feed our loved ones and fill their bellies with good things. It’s how we show love. So being able to do that on a grand scale and make it my job has truly been a dream come true. Receiving feedback from all over the country, from people who absolutely love our original sauces, has been the most magical feeling and makes us want to keep creating and innovating new ways to deliver the yummy meals to every household in America and hopefully beyond one day ! It’s okay to Dream Big! In fact it’s a MUST. ___________________________________________________________ Visit online at www.pizzagirl.com to order the Pizza Girl Grill and follow @pizzagirlofficial and @carolinedamore on instagram and social media.

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F1 VEGAS Event Highlight: CMG Presented “Turn 66” at Resorts World Nov 17, 18

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Allē Lounge on 66 added to the excitement by transforming into ‘TURN 66’, an exclusive late-night hospitality series by leading experiential partner CMG (Corso Marketing Group) following the evening race and qualifying night run. Hosted by global hospitality leader Richie Akiva, the two-night after affair catered to VIP guests on Friday and Saturday nights, November 17th and 18th, for an exclusive postrace celebration perched above the Las Vegas Strip on the 66th floor of Resorts World Crockfords Tower. Featuring captivating 360 degree views and a stellar lineup of famed world class DJs including DJ Pee .Wee aka Anderson .Paak, Guy Gerber, Kaz James, Ruckus, Vice, Carlita, DJ Tennis, Swaylo and Miramar. The high energized late night party that went until 6:00am for two straight nights was attended by notable talent, top entrepreneurs, esteemed hospitality VIP, music artists and athletes such as Swizz Beatz, Travis Scott, Zedd, Odell Beckham Jr, Glen Powell, Nyjah Huston, Swae Lee, Heidi Klum, Tom Kaulitz, David Dobrik, Badius, Ross Butler, Jessica Serfati, Leonardo Del Vecchio, Michael Rubin, Will Makris, Mark Birnbaum, Bobby Kennedy III, Taras Romanov, Leon Bridges, Phillies’ Owner John Powers Middleton, Todd Graves, Rufus Du Sol, Christopher Schwarzenegger, Galen Gering, Amber Black, Haley Amaya, Chloe Hock, La Demi, Jessica Belkin, Sienna Raine, Chord Overstreet among many others. The room of music artists, supermodels, athletes, influencers, VIPs and top global entrepreneurs sipped on top shelf spirits, Heineken Silver and Red Bull fueled the evening.

Swizz Beatz, Richie Akiva & Travis Scott

WIll Makris and Michael Rubin

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Experiential Industry Leader Corso Marketing Group (CMG), partnered with leading Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Resorts World Las Vegas, presented an ultra-exclusive, premier post-race two-night affair, hosted by globally recognized Hospitality Leader Richie Akiva, over the Inaugural Vegas race weekend. On November 17 and 18, from midnight to 6am, the series took place perched above Sin City, in the elegant, luxe Allē Lounge on 66. Featuring unmatched 360-degree views of Las Vegas from the Strip and anticipated raceway to the mountains and desert, the space will be transformed into a turnkey nightlife destination for Vegas’ inaugural race weekend, donned as “TURN 66,’’ taking the VIP after-hours experience to new heights. TURN 66 played home to the highly anticipated exclusive late-night hospitality series on November 17 and 18, following the evening race and qualifying night run, for a curated room of 300 VIP guests per night. A stellar lineup of highly sought after DJs and music artists programmed by CMG, inclusive of DJ Pee .Wee aka Anderson .Paak, Guy Gerber, Ruckus, Vice, Kaz James, DJ Tennis, Carlita, Miramar and Swaylo, with more to be announced. The captivating views will create the most coveted setting for post-race celebrations all weekend. Global Hospitality Entrepreneur Richie Akiva, known for curating the most exclusive parties and events worldwide, will be hosting the two-night affair.

CMG is a strategic creative agency that consistently innovates the industry, producing high-level experiences that further build brand recognition and amplification. CMG provides unprecedented solutions and partner alliances and continues to elevate as a driving industry force behind the most buzzworthy of experiential collaboration, working internationally with the most recognized names such as Adidas®, Heineken®, RH, Red Bull®, Don Julio®, Soho House, Resorts World Las Vegas, and AEG. Resorts World Las Vegas, and Zouk Group, a leading lifestyle and entertainment company from Singapore, curated an ecosystem of immersive entertainment and lifestyle concepts, creating the Strip’s most buzzed about property since opening in 2021. The resort provides a multiplicity of experiences in one 100,000-square-foot entertainment complex, including the world class Zouk Nightclub, an innovative space pushing the boundaries of dance music and technology with resident headliners such as Zedd, Tiësto, Travis Scott, DJ Snake, and G-Eazy, who are programmed all race weekend long at the property. Heineken® Silver was the exclusive beer and 0% ABV beer for the late-night series at TURN 66, taking place at Resorts World Las Vegas, with Red Bull fueling the evening. Visit https://www.corsomg.com/ and follow @CorsoMG on Instagram.

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SOLVING FOOD INSECURITY How to Help Rescuing Leftover Cuisine Feed Those Who are Food Insecure

By Ryan Slattery

Food waste in America is a huge problem. Each year, it’s estimated that 40 percent of food is thrown away. Combined with the fact that one in eight Americans are food insecure and struggle daily to provide for their families, it’s a difficulty that won’t go away overnight. Luckily, there are organizations like Rescuing Leftover Cuisine (RLC) that are doing something to solve it by diverting excess food to those most in need of a meal. Since its inception in 2013, RLC has served over 11 million meals to food insecure Americans using food donated to them from partner restaurants, bakeries, grocery stores, catering companies, offices and farms. Perfectly good food that would otherwise end up discarded and in a landfill.

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“Unfortunately there is waste at every level of our food system,” explains co-founder Robert Lee. “Food loss occurs for many reasons, with some types of loss–such as spoilage–occurring at every stage of the production and supply chain. Between the farm gate and retail stages, food loss can arise from many problems. Consumers also contribute to food loss when they buy or cook more than they need and choose to throw out the extras.” Lee continues, “Wasted food is definitely a global problem and not something limited to the U.S., although the percentage of wasted food is slightly higher in the U.S. than the global average. Most countries are equally focused on reducing their food waste in order to help reach climate goals.”

Lee knows firsthand what it’s like to struggle with food insecurity. When he was young his parents moved from South Korea to New York City but struggled to learn English and find good jobs. With money tight, food was light and Lee learned the importance of not wasting food. It was a lesson he carried with him well into his studies at New York University where he took on a leadership role with a food rescue club. That passion remained and in 2013 he founded RLC, while working on Wall Street. By the next year, Lee left his job at J.P. Morgan so he could devote all his time to making life better for the underserved. Today, Rescuing Leftover Cuisine has nine active branches in Atlanta, Chicago, Columbus, Dallas, Los Angeles, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York City, and Rhode Island where a community of rescuers operate and handle recurring food rescues on a daily basis. In addition to those branches, RLC is able to facilitate what they call large-scale donations– described as pallet-sized donations. This involves rescuing thousands of pounds of food at once from food donors further up the food supply chain, including warehouses and distribution centers anywhere in the country. RLC has partnered with several major corporations including Daily Harvest, Kind Snacks, Simple Mills, PepsiCo, and Levain Bakery.

But despite the organization’s success, there is still more to be done. Lee is hoping other decision makers at food businesses everywhere will see what the non-profit organization has accomplished and be encouraged to sign up and donate their excess food to RLC. The questions Lee most receives is who can help and how. “Any business with excess food is able to donate to RLC,” Lee explains. “The only requirements are that any food has been prepared by a regulated or licensed food business and meets our food safety guidelines.” To start donating, businesses can complete a form on the organization’s website and someone from the RLC team will reach out to detail the process. “RLC strives to make donating food as easy as possible,” Lee says. “Food donors are able to schedule and manage their pickups using their online portal. Once a food rescue is scheduled, RLC rescuers will come by at the scheduled time and pick up all of the donations and bring them to a predetermined nonprofit recipient. That organization will then serve the food directly to the community.”

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 78

And with hundreds of nonprofit recipients, there is always a need for donations. RLC distributes the donated food items to nonprofit community organizations including schools, churches, food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and more. “As an organization, RLC always wants to provide as many healthy and nutritious options to our nonprofit recipient partners,” Lee says. “The need is so large and RLC works with so many nonprofit recipients that they’re able to match food donations with partner organizations that need them most. That is why RLC will take all food donations that meet their food safety guidelines.” And while RLC cannot rescue food from individuals and households, Lee said individuals can donate their time and work as volunteers or support the program with a financial donation. www.rescuingleftovercuisine.org

“The need is so large and RLC works with so many nonprofit recipients that they’re able to match food donations with partner organizations that need them most. That is why RLC will take all food donations that meet their food safety guidelines.” Page 79 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

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Page 81 | Food & Beverage Magazine v December Issue 2023

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

‘Shmallow Toasted Marshmallow Bourbon Punctuated by the nostalgic flavors of caramelized sugar and smoke, ‘Shmallow, Toasted Marshmallow Bourbon takes customers back to their favorite bonfire moments. The distilled spirit specialty is primed to become a staple for customers to enjoy among friends while congregating over a bonfire or to sip while ringing in the holidays. The playful Toasted Marshmallow Bourbon stands out among flavored whiskeys for its versatility. ‘Shmallow can hold its own in traditionally bourbon-forward cocktails, like Hotel Tango’s S’More Old Fashioned, but it is a friendlier pair to many common cocktail ingredients when compared to other flavored whiskeys on the market.

22 Salute™ With A Purpose™ In the ever-evolving world of spirits, 22 Salute™ is a trailblazing brand that combines exceptional quality products with a powerful social mission. Their Double Gold winning Vodka ‘With A Purpose™’ is crafted to perfection, earning its accolades at international spirits competitions. This smooth, premium vodka serves as a testament to the dedication and expertise of the veterans who make it. But, 22 Salute™ is more than just exceptional taste. This remarkable brand, a veteran dependent and minority owned company, stands out for its unwavering commitment to supporting veterans and first responders. A portion of each sale goes to a nonprofit that provides mental health and suicide prevention resources, making every purchase a meaningful contribution. Choose 22 Salute™ and become part of a brand that makes a positive impact. Celebrate their commitment to quality and innovation, while backing the brave individuals who keep us safe. Taste the difference and make a difference with 22 Salute™.

Abbot’s Butcher Plant Based Chorizo Crafted with garlic, chipotle peppers, and an imported Spanish smoked paprika, this crave-worthy plant-based “Chorizo” is zesty and bright. It has a subtle amount of heat, without being spicy. It’s incredibly versatile - great for breakfast dishes like scrambles and burritos, or savory dinners like empanadas and enchiladas. With the rich, invigorating depth it brings to the plate, it’s the perfect way to spice things up.

Atoria’s Family Bakery Cinnanaan Mini Naan Atoria’s Family Bakery is proud to announce the newest addition to their line of clean-label flatbreads: Cinnanaan Mini Naan. The delicious Cinnanaan Mini Naan flatbreads have answered the call of serious snackers everywhere. Since its founding in 1992, Atoria’s Family Bakery has baked with real, simple ingredients and no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. The company bakes multiple flatbread varieties -- Lavash, Naan, Pita and Pizza Crusts -- all of which are vegan and Non-GMO Project Verified. The family owned and operated bakery prides itself on crafting flatbreads that are incredibly versatile across various meals and applications throughout the day and these Mini Naan are no exception. Even the Cinnanaan can easily serve as a carrier for either sweet or savory toppings. These soft and pillowy personal size flatbreads are baked to sweet perfection with real cinnamon and cane sugar. Perfect as breakfast toast, dessert pizza crusts and more.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 82

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Aussie Select Lamb Prime Rib At Aussie Select, we take immense pride in being the country’s exclusive producer of fully cooked, Halalcertified lamb items. Ready-to-eat or ready-to-heat, Aussie Select is perfect for countless applications from trend-forward charcuterie boards to flatbreads and more. Our unique offering fills a significant gap in the market as the only non-pork, Halal-certified option, catering to the diverse needs of today’s economy. Our newest launch in 2023 is our Lamb Prime Rib Roast. Tender and DELIcious, this product is simply seasoned with sea salt, black pepper, garlic, onion, sage—a Chef’s special ready to a lamb French Dip or to be turned into lamb bacon.

Autowraptec It’s A Wrap Wrapping silverware in napkins is the best way of providing silverware to customers today. Unfortunately, it is a costly and germ-infested process that is among your employees’ least favorite activities. Autowraptec has created an affordable and revolutionary machine to automatically wrap silverware in napkins and band them without anyone touching the silverware after they have been through the dishwasher. “It’s a Wrap” will significantly reduce your costs and raise your employees’ morale while providing your customer cleaner silverware. Dirty silverware is put into “It’s A Wrap” proprietary silverware cassettes and then placed directly into your dishwasher. From the dishwasher, the cassettes are placed directly onto the machine and automatically wrapped in napkins. The silverware is never touched after it’s washed. With public awareness of food safety and health at an all time high, this machine will give your restaurant an advantage over the competition while saving you money.

B Cellars Merlot With a commitment to heritage vineyards, B Cellars is often credited with preserving vines that may have otherwise been replaced. In 2023, B Cellars celebrated a new milestone: their 20th vintage and with it the release of a 2021 Merlot from the historic Hudson vineyards, located in the hills of Carneros that connect Sonoma and Napa. This Merlot tells a story of resilience, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of the variety. The wine has intense structural integrity, reminiscent of Right Bank Bordeaux.

BarBox Margarita In the world of cocktails, BarBox is a game-changer. With a playful yet sophisticated approach, it delivers readyto-drink cocktails that exude craftsmanship and quality. The bag-in-a-box style is not just fun; it’s a convenient way to enjoy a premium cocktail experience. In three easy steps, you’re sipping on a crafted masterpiece: push to break the seal, pull to extend the spout, and remove the safety seal. Pour over ice, and you’re in for a treat. BarBox’s Margarita is crafted with tequila, agave spirit, triple sec, lemon, lime juice, and cane sugar. What sets it apart? BarBox’s in-house distilled agave spirits, created using two hybrid copper stills, resulting in a unique, authentic flavor profile that pays homage to this legendary cocktail. Discover the perfect blend of playfulness and sophistication with BarBox.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Barcode Barcode was developed by Mubarak “Bar” Malik, former New York Knicks and Los Angeles Lakers Director of Performance. Malik co-founded the company with NBA Champion, philanthropist and entrepreneur Kyle Kuzma to offer a healthier alternative to popular sports drinks. Barcode products are the first ever plantbased, all natural performance drink on the market with added benefits and ingredients, including Vitamin D, B6, B12, magnesium and ashwagandha and no added sugar. The beverage hydrates quickly for athletic performance, provides increased immunity for overall wellness and naturally tastes flavorful. Barcode has garnered attention from notable figures in the entertainment and sports industries such as Halle Berry, Derrick Rose, Tim Hardaway Jr. and Kelly Rowland since its inception in 2020, notes the Brooklyn Nets as a proud partner and NBA Phenom, Victor Wembanyama as an investor and face of the brand.

Basbas Amaro, but sweeter. This herbal liqueur from Ibiza has won 12 international gold medals in the last few years. Batch 001 received 95-points and the distinction of Spanish Liqueur of the Year at NYISC. Our editors named Batch 002 a Top Pick in May, and reservations for their latest batch sold out in 6 hours. It’s an herbaceous 25% ABV spirit with notes of anise, sage and rosemary, first distilled by monks living on the Balearic Islands around the 16th century. To this day, the spirit is present at practically every toast, meal, and celebration in Ibiza, but it’s relatively unknown outside of the region. Though Ibiza has a notorious reputation, in recent years it’s become a retreat destination embodying the slow life – that’s fine with Paul Geller, Basbas CEO, who is on a mission to share the softer side of the island paradise with the world.

Beattie’s Vodka Peppermint Vanilla A Beattie’s family favorite, this cheery premium flavored vodka is perfect for the holiday season. Smooth and crisp with hints of peppermint on the nose and palette, and a warm vanilla finish.Try it in a martini for a seasonal spin on a classic.

Beech-Nut® Dino Biscuits Already a family favorite, Beech-Nut® Dino Biscuits are made with fruits, veggies, and whole grains with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. This stage 4 snack is ideal for toddlers 12 months and up and is a great alternative to other treats available to kids. Dino Biscuits, available in a 5-oz resealable bag containing 28 dino biscuits, come in two varieties: Dino Biscuits with Hidden Veggies – Pumpkin & Cinnamon, Butternut Bliss; Dino Biscuits with Prebiotics – Banana Yogurt, Blueberry Yogurt. Dino Biscuits with Hidden Veggies contain veggies in every bite, like pumpkin and butternut squash. Dino Biscuits with Prebiotics are baked with fruit and yogurt for a delicious taste combination in flavors like blueberry and banana. Both Hidden Veggies and Prebiotic varieties are non-GMO.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 84

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Bell’s Reines Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies Bell’s Reines Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies are so delicious that you’ll be left wondering if these are really vegan chocolate chip cookies?! Each bite is loaded with premium chocolate, vegan toffee, and full of rich flavor. Bell’s Reines is owned by a Black mother and daughter duo in Maryland who decided to change the prepackaged cookie industry after experiencing their father’s ailing health to cancer. They could only find artificial ingredients and loaded GMOS in prepackaged cookies at stores! Bell’s Reines is a Non-GMO Project Verified business and tastes great! Made with real eggs and butter, these gourmet soft mini cookies are a yummy combination of traditional heritage based on their family’s generations of baking and contemporary flair. You won’t find artificial ingredients or preservatives. Their slogan: Life is Sweet, Savor the Small Things. They offer a flavor variety, including gluten free and vegan options.

Bellwood Bar and Storage Cart This modern, two-toned wooden cart is versatile and perfect for any corner of your home. Use it to create your own at-home bar setup, indoor garden cart, or side table. With rubber-rimmed wheels, you can easily move it around or remove a tray to serve on the go or clean. With two tiers, there’s ample space for all your bar tools, stemware, decor, and more. Assembly is a breeze with included instructions and hardware. The classic design adds a subtle hint of charm and sophistication to any room while keeping your essentials organized in style! Elevate your home decor instantly with the Bellwood Bar and Storage Cart. Sourced from renewable wood sources and made with an eco-friendlier finish. It produces 85% less water and solid waste than traditional electroplating finishes.

Better for All Cups Say goodbye to the environmental impact of traditional disposable cups, and hello to a sustainable, home compostable way to celebrate. The global shift away from oil and gas to renewable and biobased resources is matched by consumer demand to address plastic waste pollution in a significant way, now. Better for All is meeting that demand with our compostable, reusable, and renewably sourced products. We are the only certified home compostable PHBH cup on the U.S. market. PHBH is a unique biobased material that is at once stable, tough AND maximally compostable. Better for All uses an additive free manufacturing process so that we can guarantee a product free of environmentally disruptive and harmful chemicals.

Bib Tucker Small Batch Bourbon Double Char Inspired by the turn of the century in America, when food was cooked on the open flame, this new bourbon from Bib & Tucker Small Batch Bourbon is aged twice to create savory smoky notes and an exceptionally smooth finish. Double Char is first aged for six years in the rolling hills of Tennessee in new white American oak, followed by a minimum of five months in a second heavily charred and smoked new barrel. This unique fire-forged double char aging method creates the rich and deep flavor of Double Char.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 86

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Bibigo™ Pork Vegetable Steamed Dumplings Bibigo™ Pork & Vegetable Steamed Dumplings have juicy pork and premium ingredients carefully tucked into a perfectly thin wrapper bursting with flavor. These Steamed Dumplings are quickly becoming the favorite go-to snack and meal for people seeking out convenience, quality and big Korean flavors! It’s easy to make - simply microwave, try pan frying or adding to your favorite soup. It’s delicious as a shareable appetizer or as part of a quick lunch or dinner.

Blackbird Foods Plant Based Pepperoni Pizza This year, Blackbird Foods, the brand founded by chefs with hand-tossed frozen pizzas made from plant-based ingredients, launched their new Pepperoni Pizza made with Beyond Pepperoni® from Beyond Meat®. This Pepperoni Pizza tastes like it has been delivered straight from your favorite pizzeria with a NY-style handtossed crust, signature tomato sauce, vegan cheese, fresh garlic, and the deliciously crispy and savory Beyond Meat Plant-Based Pepperoni slices. With a quick baking time of only eight minutes, this is the perfect meal of choice during the busy holiday season and leading up to the Super Bowl.

Blender Bites 1-Step Frappé Mindful Mocha Blender Bites 1-Step Frappé Mindful Mocha is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a healthy coffee treat. This frozen frappé puck is made with organic, functional ingredients, and is dairy-free, gluten-free, peanut-free, soy-free, and non-GMO. To make a Mindful Mocha frappé, simply add one puck to a blender or shaker cup with 5 oz of any liquid of your choice. Blend or shake until smooth and enjoy! The Mindful Mocha Frappé is a good source of 12 vitamins from plants, and it has less sugar than the leading brand of frappé coffee drink. It also contains 1000 mg of lion’s mane mushroom per serving, which is a type of mushroom that has been shown to boost cognitive function and support brain health.

Blue Diamond Thin Dipped Almonds Blue Diamond Thin Dipped Almonds are a better-for-you snack nut option with 50% less sugar than the average chocolate-covered almonds. The new product comes in two flavors, Double Dark Chocolate and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel, each containing 170 calories and 5 grams of protein per serving, with no artificial colors or flavors. These delicious satisfying flavors are also cholesterol-free, high in Vitamin E, and do not have a shiny wax or glossy finish, making for a guilt free, crunchy and sweet snack option.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Bluebird Distilling Breakwater Bourbon In a recent partnership with the Jetty Rock Foundation, the 501(C)3 nonprofit arm of the coastal lifestyle and apparel brand Jetty, Bluebird Distilling released Breakwater Bourbon, the well-aged, lightly smoked bourbon captures the flavors of coastal adventure and marks the shared appreciation for our environment shared by Bluebird Distilling and The Jetty Rock Foundation, whose work includes fundraising through community events, sponsorships, planned giving, private donations and sales of Jetty Rock Oysters. 10% of proceeds from brand-new Breakwater Bourbon will be directly applied to the maintenance, protection and care of oceans and waterways.

BNutty Irresistible Pretzel Meet BNutty, a women-owned and minority-owned business that has evolved from the kitchen creation into a global sensation. In 2023, they achieved top exporter status, recognized by EXIM BANK, and earned a place on Fortune’s Top 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list. Their journey started with the simple concept of homemade, gourmet peanut butter, and today, they offer an array of unique flavors like Blissful Blueberry, Irresistible Pretzel, and Totally Toffee. Beyond taste, the two soccer moms who founded BNutty are on a mission to support their local youth soccer club from day one. Joy Thompkins, BNutty’s founder, emphasized, ‘We live in this community and believe it’s important to give back.’ More than just spreading peanut butter, they’re spreading love and community support. Discover the joy of BNutty Peanut Butter, where flavors, fun, and a commitment to making the world a better place come together in every jar.

Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Reserva Broken Barrel Honey Smoke Reserva features a Kentucky-distilled American Whiskey aged for six years, finished for five months using Honey barrel staves and Texas Sotol barrel staves, and bottled at 110-proof (55% ABV). Broken Barrel has become known for producing whiskeys, which showcase the impact a nontraditional barrel finishing practice has on flavor. Once Broken Barrel whiskey ages for a minimum of two years, barrels are carefully selected, dumped, and batched in a large tank. The broken barrel staves from multiple different kinds of casks are then added to further age and finish the whiskey. The team coined the term Oak Bill™ to denote the combination of barrel staves from different types of barrels used in each expression, as listed on every bottle – in this case, 50% honey and 50% percent sotol barrel staves, the first whiskey to be finished using this combination.

Browne Trading Company Smoked Salmon When it comes to artisanal products, Browne Trading Company assesses every feature, including the most prized cut. When searching for the finest cut of salmon, look no further than the buttery top loin. Savoring the best portion, Browne Trading sources all-natural North Atlantic Wester Ross Salmon, known for its bright filets and high quality. Once received fresh, they brine and cold smoke by hand in small batches, right in their Portland, Maine facility. The final product presents a tender and top tier smoked salmon.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 88

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

CakeSafe The CakeSafe Box was invented by Scott Chapin for Juli Chapin, Scott’s wife and professional baker, in 1989. Little did they know that decades later his invention would not only be known but coveted by bakers around the world. He solved the most common problem faced by bakers-- how to get a tiered cake to a venue without stress. The Chapins brought their product to the market in 2009. CakeSafes are still made in their facility in Rhode Island and ship directly to customers worldwide. Before the CakeSafe Box, bakers had to assemble their cakes and pipe buttercream designs at the venue, or risk a cake disaster if the assembled cake fell over in the car. The CakeSafe allows bakers to assemble and decorate their cakes in the comfort of their kitchens without limitations on design. The CakeSafe Box protects tiered cakes from tipping, bumpy roads, heat, rain, slammed brakes and so much more.

Casa Del Sol Casa Del Sol is a luxurious, ultra-premium tequila inspired by the magic of golden hour and the legend of the Aztec goddess of agave, Mayahuel. Casa Del Sol is made with the finest hand-selected 7-year-old 100% Blue Weber Agave and distilled at a world-class Mexican-owned distillery in Jalisco that has been awarded the distinctive ESR Award. Currently, the brand offers four expressions – Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and 11:11 Angel’s Reserve. Where most Tequila brands source whiskey barrels from the United States, Casa Del Sol partnered with Laurent Martell, the 9th generation of the Martell family in France, and sourced Cognac barrels handcrafted using French Limousin Oak. The brand prioritizes social, economic, and environmental practices, which includes providing healthcare opportunities for production workers, developing programs to help foster more opportunities for women in the Altos de Jalisco region, and prioritizing the sustainable cultivation of agave.

Catalina Crunch Cereal Pairings Catalina Crunch’s most recent innovation, Cereal Pairings Line, elevates the low-sugar cereal category with nut and fruit inclusions. This innovative new product launch came from the insight that 1 in 3 consumers add toppings to their cereal as a way to improve taste and texture. With this line, the brand combines the delicious cereal base fans know and love with flavorful inclusions like nuts and berries for a perfect combination of crunch and flavor. Available in two flavors Blueberry Muffin Cereal with Whole Blueberries and Honey Nut Cereal with Roasted Almonds, this new offering boasts no added sugar, a generous 10g of protein per serving, and it’s low-carb and keto-friendly, ensuring it caters to all your dietary preferences.

Char Crust Classic Turkey Rub Char Crust’s new Classic Turkey Rub is a no brine, easy prep turkey seasoning. It delivers crispy skin and juicy meat every time. Char Crust makes it so easy - just coat and cook. One 4 oz package is good for a whole 12-18 lb turkey. All Char Crust products are clean label, non-GMO, Kosher-certified. Char Crust is a Chicago based; women owned company which started in 1957 at the popular Chicago steakhouse – Al Farber’s. When the restaurant closed, chefs and consumers alike were clamoring for the seasoning and the Char Crust brand was born.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Christie Cookie Co. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Christie Cookie is a Nashville-founded bakery (turned leading gourmet cookie brand), best known for its decadent, buttery cookies, and rich gooey brownies. New from Christie Cookie Co., the Sweet Six Pack is a pre-packaged set of gourmet cookies in classic flavors Sugar, Snickerdoodle, Chocolate Chip, White Chocolate Macadamia Nut, Rocky Road and Oatmeal Raisin.

Chunk There is a growing global demand for sustainable and healthy protein options, yet available alternatives simply aren’t good enough. Enter Chunk, the future of meat. Using proprietary technology and solid state fermentation, Chunk’s plant-based whole cuts deliver a deeply satisfying experience, mimicking the texture, color and taste of traditional meat. Not only does their revolutionary process create a more delicious product, it also allows for the use of less resources like water and energy. Pan sear, baste, grill, smoke or stew: Chunk does it all! Easily replacing beef in your favorite recipes and cooking perfectly every time, it requires no additional training for chefs or restaurant staff. Recently earning headlines for the historical launch of this plant-based steak at Florida’s Charley’s high-end steakhouse chain, Chunk is served on hotspot menus nationwide, making plantbased eating accessible and delicious.

Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve honors Brown-Forman’s more than 70 years of barrel-making and wood expertise as it is the only major distiller with its own barrel cooperage. The spirit is a robust and complex bourbon bottled at 100 proof that shines in cocktails like a Boulevardier -- At an exceptional value Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve is equally fit for a celebratory toast as it is for front porch sipping. Carrying tasting notes of caramel, cotton candy, fresh apple, pear and citrus fruit atop vanilla wafers dusted with sharp cinnamon, finished off with assertive cinnamon spice softening to a lingering apple and clean oak note, Coopers’ Craft Barrel Reserve is a highly-rated, bang-for-your-buck gift, with wide availability for purchase in 20+ states.

Costa Tequila Café Costa Tequila releases Costa Tequila Café, a tequila-based coffee liqueur. Made with Blue Weber Agave and Mexican coffee beans, Costa Café is a mild yet smooth offering featuring natural coffee flavors including caramel and vanilla. Costa Café can be prepared as a stand alone drink, served chilled or on the rocks, or included in a cocktail like a delicious espresso martini. With continued investments in innovation and an evolving product lineup, the release of Costa Café showcases Costa’s adventurous spirit and the premiumization of tequila-based products in a changing beverage and spirits category. As the makers of the first ‘Hi/Lo’ blend of tequila in the world, Costa Tequila offers a lineup of tequilas that intentionally bring together flavor profiles from Blue Weber Agave sourced in two traditionally separate tequila regions in Jalisco, Mexico: “Los Altos” (the Highlands) and “Valle de Tequila” (the Lowlands).

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 90

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Cuisinart EvolutionX Cordless 4-In-1 Wine Opener Everything you need to maximize your wine enjoyment is right here. Complete cordless convenience makes opening bottles easier than ever. Open up to 50 bottles on a single charge. The foil cutter neatly removes foil seals. Use the aerator to bring out wine’s full flavor and the preserver to retain freshness. To recharge, simply plug the USB cable into the port. Quick. Easy. Exceptional.

Culture Pop Soda Black Cherry Culture Pop Soda is a probiotic soda alternative brand that has recently launched their Black Cherry flavor. Similar to how the rest of Culture Pop’s product family is crafted with herbs and spices, Black Cherry features a dash of organic cacao that complements and balances the tartness cherry juice brings. Black Cherry is a satisfying 8th addition to Culture Pop Soda’s 7 flavor line up which also includes Strawberry & Rhubarb, Watermelon & Lime, Orange Mango & Lime, Ginger Lemon & Turmeric, Pink Grapefruit & Ginger, Wild Berries & Lime, and Lemon Lime. Culture Pop Soda is made of real, organic fruit juice, herbs and live probiotics without the use of artificial sweeteners or added sugars. Each 12 oz can is only 45 calories and includes billions of live probiotics at the time of canning. Culture Pop Soda is vegan, certified NON-GMO, Kosher, and does not contain stevia which can be found in other drinks in the alternative beverage category.

Cutwater White Russian A fireside indulgence featuring real vodka. This White Russian in a can is created with Cutwater’s award winning US-distilled vodka and coffee cream liqueur. Enjoy this classic recipe by topping with ground cinnamon or nutmeg.

DAOU Soul of a Lion Raise a glass to the 10th-anniversary release of DAOU Soul of a Lion. This year, brothers and co-proprietors Georges and Daniel Daou celebrated the 2020 vintage release of their critically acclaimed flagship Cabernet Sauvignon, named in tribute to their father. Since its debut in 2010, Soul of a Lion has received critical acclaim from wine critics and enthusiasts alike to establish DAOU Mountain in the Adelaida District of Paso Robles as one of the world’s leading estates for Cabernet Sauvignon. The 2020 vintage showcases the elegance and power that have made Soul of a Lion a benchmark for excellence. Winemaker Daniel Daou crafts the wine from a meticulous parcel selection from DAOU Mountain, planted at an elevation of 2,200 feet on a 212-acre mountaintop, characterized by the ideal soils, microclimate, and elevation for Bordeaux varietals. With its deep ruby color and complex aromas of blackberry, cassis, and graphite, Soul of a Lion delivers a rich and balanced palate of dark fruit, velvety tannins, and a long, satisfying finish.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Eastern Standard Provisions GF Soft Pretzel Bites Eastern Standard Provisions’ new Gluten Free One-Timer Soft Pretzel Bites are the brand’s first gluten-free option and are meticulously crafted with simple ingredients delivering a light, airy interior for a one-of-akind soft pretzel experience. Includes 10+ Gluten Free One-Timer Soft Pretzel Bites and (1) Classic Pretzel Salt. The product launched in Whole Foods Market this July and demonstrates Eastern Standard Provisions’ responsiveness to market trends and solidifies its position as a company that listens and adapts to the evolving preferences of its valued customers.

Easy Ice Subscription Service The Easy Ice Subscription is an all-inclusive leasing program for industrial-grade commercial ice machines. Instead of purchasing commercial ice machines—notoriously expensive and maintenance-heavy pieces of equipment—the Easy Ice Subscription guarantees their customers always have the ice they need for one monthly payment. Ice machine installation, cleaning, biannual preventive maintenance and repairs are all covered in the subscription, and if the ice machine breaks down due to mechanical failure, they’ll even have bagged ice delivered to their customer’s business. From restaurants and bars to hotels, hospitals, corporate offices and more, Easy Ice serves a variety of businesses across multiple industries. With a constantly growing fleet of over 33,000 ice machines, they now serve customers in 47 states with plans for continued expansion.

El Tequileño Extra Añejo El Tequileño announced the debut of its most exclusive and refined expression to date – El Tequileño Extra Añejo. Made with tequila that has been aged for three to four years in American Oak and new French Oak, this ultra-premium spirit is bottled at 40% ABV and encased in a custom-made crystal Bastiaan Decanter by Pavisa Group, premium glassmaker and long-time El Tequileño partner. Crafted using the same techniques established over 60 years ago, Master Distiller Tony Salles and his father Gran Tequilero Juan Antonio Salles carefully selected each barrel for their robustness, incredible depth, and velvety finish. The resulting tequila is creamy and lush, featuring notes of rich cooked agave, toasted oak, burnt orange, toffee, vanilla, and walnut, with a slight earthiness. This expression is available in select national and local retailers for an SRP of $800.00.

EMPAVA Wine Cooler Ideal for the entertainer, sommelier, or wine enthusiast, the EMPAVA 70-inch Freestanding Dual Zone Wine Cooler ensures beverages remain fresh and chilled to perfection for an extended period. Crafted with an expansive, larger than average storage capacity, the cooler seamlessly accommodates up to 160 bottles of varying sizes and styles. Its innovative dual zone technology allows the homeowner to store and chill wine at the optimal temperature through two independent cooling zones, ranging from 40 to 50 degrees Fahrenheit in the upper region and 50 to 66 degrees Fahrenheit in the lower. The sleek, yet durable stainless-steel design features digital controls, soft blue LED lighting, French doors with a convenient 100-degree opening, and double layered tempered glass windows to see your beverage selection while protecting them from light exposure. Achieve optimal cooling levels through three innovative, energy-saving convection fans and a powerful compressor, designed to evenly distribute cold air throughout.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 92

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Fast Penny Spirits Shakerato Fast Penny Spirits, an award-winning woman-owned amaro distillery and Certified B Corp based in Seattle, crafts the Shakerato—a canned cocktail that melds amaro with coffee, inspired by the founder’s Italian roots. This company doesn’t just mix drinks; it’s dedicated to making a difference. The Shakerato stands out as the ideal day or night energizer for those seeking a sip of heritage and innovation.

Fire Department Coffee Instant Coffee Protein Powder Fire Department Coffee’s new Instant Coffee Protein Powder is a cutting-edge product that combines the benefits of both instant coffee and plant-based protein powder. This innovative powder is highly soluble and provides a convenient and nutritious solution for individuals on the go, fitness enthusiasts, and anyone who wants a quick and convenient way to boost their energy levels and protein intake. The Instant Coffee Protein Powder is made with 100% American-grown, plant-based protein. Each serving contains 225 mg of natural caffeine, no sugar or soy, and 20g of high-quality, upcycled protein. Each container contains 14.1 ounces (400 grams) of powder. Simply add two scoops of the powder to 12 fluid ounces of hot or cold water, stir, and enjoy. Upcycled protein is an innovative food source made from repurposed plant materials, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional protein powders. It’s sustainable, responsible, and delivers healthy, muscle-building benefits.

FlyWithWineVinGardeValise The VinGardeValise by FlyWithWine is a line of tough suitcases designed with dense foam inserts to cradle wine bottles to keep them safe while traveling. Choose from a variety of sizes that hold five, eight, or twelve bottles with room for your clothes and belongings on the other side.

FOG Tank The FOG Tank is a heated soak tank that safely and easily removes fat, oil, grease, and heavy carbon buildup from your metal cookware and kitchen equipment. The FOG Tank eliminates scrubbing time, reducing daily stewarding department work by three or more hours and can save a single restaurant location over $3,000 per year in energy costs. The TIGER CARBON REMOVER POWDER® efficiently and safely cleans your equipment without any scrubbing required. The chemicals are all non-caustic, non-toxic and environmentally friendly. The FOG Tank uses up to 60% less space than a 3-compartment sink and fits under the drain board or any countertop. Additionally, the unit saves over 340,000 gallons of water per year since the water and chemicals last for a full 30 days of usage.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

For Bitter For Worse Eva’s Spritz For Bitter For Worse makes complex cocktails with love, not alcohol. The company is a proud womanowned, disability-owned brand with a mission to create a healthier, more inclusive culture. Depth of flavor is achieved through their proprietary “reverse bootlegging” process, which uses certified organic raw botanicals, rather than off-the-shelf extracts and lab-derived natural flavors. Eva’s Spritz is a sparkling aperitif. Tart and herbaceous, with notes of rhubarb, bitter orange peel, and hibiscus.

Funny Water It’s water with a punchline– FUNNY WATER is a flavored water with a little bit of alcohol and no carbonation. As a first of its kind “hard water,” FUNNY WATER is a “better for you” beverage that offers just the right amount of buzz for any occasion. FUNNY WATER is available in stores throughout the country and comes in a deliciously diverse set of flavors: Cucumber Mint, Watermelon, Citrus, Blueberry Açaí, Ginger Lemon, and Jalapeño Lime. With zero sugar, only 80 calories, and just 1g of carbs, FUNNY WATER is a refreshing way to drink better.

Giuseppe Giusti Banda Rossa Unveil the essence of Giusti’s vinegar craftsmanship with “Banda Rossa,” the ultimate testament to Giusti’s artistry. Originally a cherished gift from Uncle Giuseppe to family members, this elixir stands as a testament to the company’s heritage. It embodies a robust, extraordinary complexity and a lavish bouquet of aromas that will transport your senses. Crafted from the must of cooked grapes and aged wine vinegar, “Banda Rossa” undergoes a meticulous aging process within antique small casks dating back to the 1700s. Extracted in limited quantities, only once a year, its quality remains unparalleled.

Glenmorangie A Tale of Tokyo A Tale of Tokyo is Glenmorangie Highland Scotch Whisky’s newest limited-edition creation. Marking the distillery’s first expression to be partially matured using rare Mizunara oak casks, A Tale of Tokyo captures the sensory wonders of Japan’s capital in a creative new whisky. Inspired by Tokyo’s vibrant culture and history, Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Whisky Creation, embarked on a multi-year quest to source a small quantity of rare Mizunara oak casks, in hopes of integrating the oak’s distinctive, bold flavor with Glenmorangie’s delicate, floral character. The result is a delicious limited-edition expression characterized by enchanting opposites - crafted from whisky part-matured in Mizunara, Bourbon, and Sherry casks. To bring this whisky to life, Glenmorangie tapped Yamaguchi Akira, known for his maximalist bird’s-eye view illustrations, to create an intricate perspective of the city for the bottle and gift box. The “Where’s Waldo?” style design features hidden Dr. Bill Lumsdens peppered throughout!

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 94

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Gluten Free Easy The Gluten Free Easy doughs are ready to thaw, fill, and bake whenever the craving for fresh-baked meals and desserts strikes. Go sweet or go savory—the sky’s the limit. Think of it as a tasty canvas for homemade creations everyone can enjoy. Gluten Free Easy is the brainchild of two women who want to bring the joy of baking and eating back to those who avoid gluten but miss the satisfying taste of “real” bread and pastries. They don’t stop developing their recipes until their blind taste testers—who aren’t gluten-free—can’t tell the difference between traditional and gluten-free dough. Some say it’s even better. Gluten free Easy is certified woman-owned. All products are also certified gluten-free, dairy-free, soy free, and certified Kosher (Kok-K and Babad certifications). All but the pita dough are vegan. And all are out-of-this-world delicious.

Good Foods - Dill Pickle Chip Dip Good Foods, a leader in better-for-you dips and spreads, recently debuted Dill Pickle Chip Dip, a plant-forward dip boasting big flavor. The new product was created with inclusivity in mind – its formula removes the Top 9 allergens, redefining dips that everyone can enjoy. More than 85 million Americans are currently impacted by life-threatening food allergies and intolerances (FARE). In response, Good Foods formulated its innovative, cauliflower-based Dill Pickle Chip Dip (and other soon-to-be-announced flavors in the Chip Dip line) to be allergen-friendly. Dill Pickle Chip Dip features tangy ingredients including dill and Dijon mustard, making this party hit the ultimate combination of dill-iciousness for everyone to relish.

Good2grow Snackers Earlier this year, good2grow — a leading beverage and snack brand for kids — announced the launch of an exciting first in its lineup of better-for-you kids products: Snackers, the company’s foray into the food category. Like their beverages, good2grow’s Snackers combine fun and nutrition with wholesome ingredients and kidfavorite character tops from Disney, Nickelodeon, Hasbro and more. The 2-ounce, single-serve packages feature baked oat and wheat crackers in two delicious flavors – cinnamon and chocolate – and feature reclosable and reusable lids for mess-free, on-the-go snacking. The relationships good2grow has fostered with licensed partners has enabled the brand to create an experience beyond food and beverage. This in addition to its fanbase has allowed good2grow Snackers to exceed initial expectations. good2grow will launch 50 additional Snackers character tops by the end of the year.

Híjole Híjole! (pronounced ee-ho-leh) is made for the moments you live to remember. Distilled in Jalisco, Mexico with just three simple ingredients–Agave, Yeast, and Water–Híjole! is an internationally awarded tequila available in the US. They are also a proud partner of national, professional sports teams, including: The Denver Broncos, The New Jersey Devils, The New York Mets, The San Antonio Spurs, and The Henderson Silver Nights. The brand was founded by CEO Carlos Lazo Reyes and owned by Guadalajara-based XOY Capital.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Hot N Saucy Garlic N Peperoncini Garlic N Peperoncini is the #1 seller, a celebrity favorite, and seen on Hot Ones. It has an approachable and mild flavor with a pleasant sweet and tangy mix, making it great for dipping, pouring on all types of food, or using in recipes. This sauce is guaranteed to become one of your favorites and replace your old faithful hot sauce. Created in small batches by chef Samantha Allonce, her six all-natural blends are mouth-watering and made with the experience of having worked in some of New York City’s best restaurants. She puts flavor before the heat and caters to Americans’ rising need for the heat

House of Tamworth Saison De Frai Meet House of Tamworth Saison De Frai — Tamworth Distilling’s Smoked Trout Flavored Brandy. The spirit starts as a distillate made from sustainably farmed smoked and brined Riverence Trout. The smoked trout is infused with brandy and then distilled on Tamworth’s rotary vacuum still. That trouty tipple is then blended with the acclaimed Tamworth Garden VSOP Apple Brandy. This unique combination creates an aroma of apple with bits of maple, smoke, oak, and a hint of river funk that presents a flavor of sweet maple and apple on the front, with just a hint of trout at the end. Each bottle also features a small scoop of trout roe that has been carefully preserved in apple brandy, similar to tapioca pearls in bubble tea. The bottles are adorned with a trout shaped label and a hand-tied Royal Coachman Hookless Practice Fly. $1 from each bottle sold benefits Trout Unlimited and their mission of keeping the country’s cold-water fisheries and watersheds safe from environmental threats for generations of anglers to enjoy. Sales also support the distillery’s quest to care for, and recover, the Swift River and restore its thriving population of wild and native trout.

IZO Sotol IZO Sotol is handcrafted in Durango, Mexico from the Dasylirion plant and inspired by ancestral methods. Robust aromas of fine herbs and desert grasses harmonize with the sweet taste of well-cooked fruits, such as fig, date and biznaga to create an earthy, subtly smoked flavor. Made sustainably from slow-roasted, wild agave hearts harvested on local ranches, every sip of IZO Mezcal speaks to generations of Mezcaleros bringing people together around shared values of community, celebration, and savoring the reward of a job well done. Every aspect of IZO pays respect to its point of origin, from the locally-sourced Onyx stopper featured atop the bottle, to the elegant, minimalist design that allows the flavorful spirit within to shine. The smooth, sophisticated taste of IZO Mezcal tells the story of centuries’ old Mexican tradition and of one man’s vision to share it with the world.

Jayded AF Lavender Martini In the world of sophisticated libations, Jayded AF’s Ready-to-Serve Lavender Martini emerges as a tantalizing muse, beckoning the discerning palate on a sensual journey of flavors and aromas. Aptly named “The Interim,” this martini captivates with an alluring blend of sensuality, subtlety, and undeniable chic. Crafted to demand attention, this libation is a sensory masterpiece, where the vibrant essence of lavender weaves an exquisite dance of flavors that both excites and soothes. It’s the quintessential choice for those who desire a sophisticated, yet exciting cocktail experience that transcends the ordinary and celebrates the extraordinary. Jayded AF’s Lavender Martini is, undeniably, a libation for the connoisseurs of life’s pleasures.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Jibby Matcha Your daily coffee & tea habit offers a perfect canvas to integrate elements that support not just energy but overall health. Jibby infuses collagen, mushrooms, superfoods, and other beneficial ingredients into every cup to create a beverage that supports your body, mind, and spirit from the inside out. Available in a delicious Matcha and Coffee variety, Jibby is revolutionizing the ritual wellness space. Jibby’s products are crafted to support the Mind+Body connection, providing a perfect avenue for consumers seeking a mindful start to the year. With a commitment to wholesome, trustworthy ingredients like Organic ceremonial grade matcha for sustained energy and antioxidants, grass-fed collagen for skin, hair, and joint support, MCT oil powder for mental clarity, Ashwagandha for stress relief, Lion’s Mane mushrooms for focus and Turkey Tail mushrooms for gut health. Explore a holistic approach to wellbeing, making every sip a step towards a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Jones Dairy Farm Dry Aged Bacon Jones Dairy Farm has introduced Dry Aged Cherrywood Smoked Extra Thick Cut Bacon Slices in a 12-ounce package. Jones Dry Aged Bacon is made from fresh, dimensionally graded, hand trimmed center-cut pork bellies that are never frozen. Center cut means it’s a leaner, meatier section of the pork belly. The specially trimmed pork bellies provide better quality, more consistency and result in less bacon “shrinkage” when cooked. The bacon is cured using a century old Jones family crafted brine, then naturally smoked in small batches over real cherrywood chips. Injected or sprayed-on liquid smoke is never used. Jones uses the air chill method that prevents the chemical/overly salty flavor that often results from brine chilling. Finally, Jones Dry Aged Bacon slabs go through a custom dry-aging process where moisture is actually drawn out creating a more intense bacon flavor.

Kemps Smooth Cottage Cheese All the goodness of cottage cheese with a delicious, smooth and creamy taste that kids will love. Kemps smooth cottage cheese is blended with real fruit and contains more than twice the protein per serving of nonGreek, low fat yogurt. Conveniently packaged in a 4-pack of 4oz cups, they’re perfect for lunchboxes, mid-day snacks, or as part of a meal, and are a choice that kids and parents alike will be happy to make.

Kodiak Peak Oatmeal Kodiak is on a mission to inspire people to live wilder, wide open lives through healthier eating and active living with its nourishing, better-for-you breakfast products. For forty years, Kodiak has crafted breakfasts with no GMOs, preservatives, or anything artificial with great taste and honest ingredients. One of its newest launches, PEAK Oatmeal, was created in response to consumers and Kodiak buyers requesting even more protein in their breakfast. With inputs from professional athletes including tennis star Sloane Stephens, baseball legend CC Sabathia, NBA forward Rudy Gay, and rock climber and mountaineer Emily Harrington, among others, Kodiak created an oatmeal that packs just as much protein as a traditional shake or bar would have (20g per serving), and was crafted with less sugar and higher fiber. Available in banana nut, berries & cream, and maple brown sugar flavors

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 98

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Lang: The Well Say goodbye to single use plastics and hello to water that tastes like it’s fresh from an Alpine spring with TheWell from Swiss brand LANG. This 3-step filtration system purifies your tap water and then remineralizes it with all the essential salts, minerals, and flavors your body needs to thrive.

Lattini Sunflower Seed Milk Lattini Sunflower Milk is a new plant-based milk alternative made from organic sunflowers seeds that is nutritious, delicious, and sustainable. Lattini Sunflower Milk uses less water, land, and carbon than other plantbased milks. It is also allergen free (made without nuts, dairy, soy, etc.), Non-GMO project verified, gluten free certified, and Kosher. Lattini’s Original Sunflower Milk is perfect for savoring on its own or pairing with your favorite cookie. It’s light, creamy, rich, silky, and just the right amount of sweet. It’s an excellent source of Calcium, Vitamin E, B12, and naturally rich in other vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, copper, and selenium.

Leaves of Leisure Snow Angel Tea Delight in the enchantment of winter with our Snow Angel Tea—a caffeine-free herbal blend that captures the essence of frolicking in the first snowfall with chilling spearmint and peppermint as the base and ginger and rooibos for warmth. Crafted for those who cherish the nostalgia of the snowy season, this tea is a sensory hug from the chilly excitement of winter’s touch. Each sip is a chilling delight, reminiscent of joyful snowball fights and cozy moments by the hearth. Our sustainably and ethically sourced, certified organic and kosher ingredients form a symphony of taste that’s as pure as snow itself.

LifeMade® Compostable Products Companies shouldn’t have to choose between being sustainable and providing a quality product consumers want. LifeMade® Compostable Products are made from advancements in materials that deliver the high performance and compostability* that consumers are looking for. These products have been lab proven and certified to degrade within six months in garden compost bins.† LifeMade® Home Compostable* Cutlery and Straws have earned the TUV AUSTRIA OK compost HOME* and BPI Commercially Compostable Certifications§. Consumers want to be kind to the environment and have the convenience of take-out food. LifeMade® Home Compostable* Products allow consumers to feel like they are doing something good for the environment and enjoy their food. Click here to request a free sample and learn more. * TÜV OK compost HOME §BPI Commercially Compostable Test methods include: †ASTM D6400 (USA), EN 13432 (EU/International), Ash, FTIR, Heavy Metals & Fluorine analysis, CO2 evolution

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

LOVO LOVO made history this year, launching the first ever line of vegan milk chocolate bars, featuring all the creaminess & joy of milk chocolate, PLUS hints of delicious plant milk flavors consumers know and love: Almondmilk, Coconutmilk, Hazelnut Milk & Oatmilk. This category disruptor took a bite out of the massive milk chocolate market by understanding what motivates consumers here most: Deliciousness & Temptation. Swiss-made, LOVO is 100% Plant-Based, Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO & Rainforest Alliance certified. To stand out, LOVO meticulously designed eco-friendly packaging to resonate with today’s modern consumers.

Lux Ice Not all ice is created equal. Lux Ice has created proprietary technology to provide premium, slow-melt, tasteless spheres with glass-like clarity for the ultimate drink experience! Lux Ice offers those in the hospitality industry many advantages. First, the product is pre-packaged and ready to use. This improves employee productivity by eliminating the need for employees to spend time making craft ice. Next, slow melting ice means less dilution and less diluted drinks can result in more sales. The beautiful product makes it easier to create buzzworthy cocktails that guests will want to post to social media, thus improving brand awareness and driving repeat business. Finally, Lux Ice has recently become the first and only dedicated craft ice company to receive food safe accreditation from the International Packaged Ice Association (IPIA).

Maazah Mango Chutney As first-generation Afghan Americans growing up in the Midwest, food served as a vital link to Yasameen and Sheilla’s Middle Eastern heritage. Inspired by their mom’s magic green chutney recipe, they launched Maazah, meaning flavor in Farsi. They handcrafted mom’s sauces and sold them across Minnesota at farmers markets and co-ops. Since those humble beginnings, they have skyrocketed into the CPG scene, winning Kroger’s Go Fresh and Local Supplier Accelerator program and Expo West Pitch Slam. This prestigious recognition has served as a catalyst, propelling their growth and expanding their presence in the market. The brand has demonstrated an impressive trajectory since its start and is available at more than 200 retail doors nationwide with more stores in line for 2024. Building on the tremendous success of their clean and better-for-you sauces, Maazah is using their platform to re-imagine a contemporary Middle Eastern food brand.

Made Simpli Simpli Press Simpli Press redefines the French press coffee experience, offering a clean and superior brew with every use. This innovative coffee maker boasts a patented double filter and coffee basket system, ensuring a smooth, rich cup without any grit—streamlining the morning ritual. With precise, pre-measured brewing guidelines and an environmentally friendly design free from disposables, Simpli Press not only simplifies coffee-making but also supports sustainability. Each purchase contributes 10% of profits to aid underserved communities, blending luxury with social responsibility. Discover the joy of mess-free, café-quality coffee at home with Simpli Press.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

MALK Holiday Nog Unlike traditional decadent holiday beverages, MALK’s Holiday Nog contains clean, simple ingredients with no additives, gums, oils, and fillers - of course without sacrificing the classic, nostalgic taste of a good holiday nog. This creamy, 100% organic vegan treat is made solely with filtered water, organic almonds, organic maple syrup, organic nutmeg extract, and Himalayan pink salt, and contains only 60 calories per serving. MALK’s limited-edition Holiday Nog will be available at Whole Foods, Sprouts, Erewhon, select Kroger locations, and more beginning in October through the holiday season while supplies last.

Marin French Cheese Co. Golden Gate Golden Gate washed rind cheese is the newest addition to Marin French Cheese Co.’s family of cheeses and the first in a new line of premium artisan cheese. This triple crème cheese gets its striking color from being hand-washed with brine multiple times throughout the 14 day aging process to allow the cultures naturally present in the coastal air to flourish. Inspired by the vibrant color of the Golden Gate Bridge, this cheese ranges from semi-soft, fudgy, and robust when young to oozing umami as it approaches its best by date.

Marquis Lemon Lavender Marquis Lemon Lavender is a revelation in the beverage landscape, a botanical elixir that elegantly captures the essence of its Los Angeles roots. It’s one of the first innovative drinks that offers a sophisticated twist on refreshment—infusing the calming essence of lavender with a vibrant citrus zest. It’s a mindful sipping experience for today’s health-conscious consumer that delivers a balanced lift at a carefully-calibrated 100mg of caffeine per can. It’s distinguished by a unique tri-blend of organic caffeine from yerba mate, green coffee, and green tea without sugar, calories, or carbs. More than just a thirst-quencher, it’s a tranquil pause in a can, a beverage that understands the delicate balance needed for today’s health-centric lifestyle. The luxe pastel packaging doesn’t just stand out, it speaks to a consumer who appreciates the art of a well-made drink. The can’s pastel purple shade isn’t just stylish; it’s a visual promise of the premium experience within. Marquis Lemon Lavender isn’t merely a choice, it’s a statement—for those who seek balance in their energizing sips, who demand flavor without compromise.

MasterCream The MasterCream was developed for the flexible and efficient refining of confectionery raw materials such as nuts as well for rework. The MasterCream is compatible with our other technologies such as the NETZSCH Rumba® or Salsa® plants. Standing alone or added into your existing line, the NETZSCH MasterCream is an optimal complement to your production. The combination of the pre-cutting unit and a horizontal agitator bead mill allows for premium products like nut creams or rework pastes to be finely ground. The MasterCream’s reduced and closed machinery components, are equipped with optimized grinding technology, lead to low processing temperatures (40°C to 50°C) and an improved flavor profile of your product as well as a longer storage life.

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 102

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

McQueen and the Violet Fog Ultraviolet Edition The artisanal gin brand McQueen and the Violet Fog has released its first line extension: the Ultraviolet Edition. This purple gin boasts the smoothness and character of the Brazilian distillery’s flagship gin with the added complexity of red berries and hibiscus flavors, and a breathtaking violet hue. McQueen and the Violet Fog is made with 21 botanicals and distilled in a single traditional pot still. With the addition of red berries and hibiscus flavors, the new Ultraviolet Edition has a distinctive tart, sweet, and earthy flavor. Complementary notes of rose petals, coriander, and rosemary come to the fore, alongside exotic notes of lemongrass, cranberry, blueberry, and jasmine flower. The finish is smooth and lingering with a subtle sweetness. Ultraviolet’s color derives from a blend of natural vegetable juices and carmine - a deep violet when poured neat, it transforms to a beautiful pink color when combined with citrus or tonic. The gin’s delicious taste and striking color make Ultraviolet the perfect base for a cocktail. McQueen and the Violet Fog Ultraviolet is distilled in Jundiai, Brazil. Packaged in a heavyweight glass bottle, it features embossed details with the brand’s classic ‘crowned eye’ logo in metallic silver.

Mecmesin VortexPro Mecmesin’s new VortexPro software-controlled torque tester enables torque testing up to a capacity of 30 N.m. Incorporating the latest technological advancements in VectorPro, Mecmesin’s easy-to-use and intelligent test analysis software, the VortexPro is designed to meet the most demanding torque measurement applications across a wide spectrum of industries. The VortexPro is an all-round torque tester designed to accommodate larger test specimens. It excels, for example, when evaluating the closure removal torque of a wide range of specimens such as packaging bottles and containers. It delivers quantitative results with a high degree of repeatability, crucial for effective quality control. The VortexPro models incorporate state-of-the-art electronics and a range of high-resolution precision Enhanced Torque Sensors (ETS). With an impressive reading accuracy of 0.5% and a resolution of 1:50,000, these machines enable a broader range of tests to be performed without the need to switch torque sensors. This advancement in technology ensures exceptional torque measurement accuracy, setting a new industry standard.

Meili Vodka Meili Vodka is an award-winning spirit created by Jason Momoa and Blaine Halvorson. Meili uses pure Montana spring water, needing zero treatment or filtration, combined with hand-selected grains from local farms in Montana. Meili is distilled only once, allowing the quality of its ingredients to shine as the showcase of the spirit. This gluten-free spirit is beautifully encased in a 100% post-consumer recycled glass bottle. Designed to be enjoyed neat, Meili provides a bright, smooth and effortless flavor profile. This is vodka reimagined.

Mind Blown™ Plant Based Crab Cakes Feel like you’ve been transported to the Maryland shores with our Mind Blown™ Plant Based Crab Cakes. Experience the taste without the take. Our Mind Blown™ Crab Cakes offer an incredible 11g protein boost per serving, while being low in fat and completely soy-free. Not only will you be savoring a delicious delicacy, but you’ll also be treating your body to a wholesome and nutritious meal. The Plant Based Seafood Co. is an allfemale, family-owned company that knows first-hand the positive impact plant based seafood can have on the ocean - because they came from the seafood industry and their passion lies in seeing our oceans THRIVE again. They are on a mission to relieve pressure off our precious oceans and leave a vibrant planet for our future generations.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Mixy Winter Java Mixy gives you the confidence to make restaurant-quality cocktails at home so you can “be the hero of happy hour”. Simply fill the jar with the alcohol of your choice, let it sit for 1-3 days, and use the now infused liquor to make 8 delicious drinks. The infused liquor can be served on its own or added to your favorite cocktail recipes. Mixy is Made in the USA. All products are created and packaged with love by a small team in Dallas, Texas.

Modica Modica is the award-winning cocktail and mocktail mix made with superfoods, functional ingredients, and up to 70% less sugar than other mixers. One of their newest flavors is the Blueberry Lavender Lemon Drop. Known for their high levels of antioxidants, blueberries and lavender elevate the classic Lemon Drop to one that’s unique, refreshing and invigorating. This fruity, juicy mix can be enjoyed all year long and in many ways: the label includes recipes for a cocktail, mocktail, and pitcher of drinks – perfect for hosting and entertaining. Although Lemon Drops are traditionally made with vodka, Modica recommends experimenting with tequila, gin, and bourbon. Modica’s website also includes some elevated recipes if you want to try something a little more special, like a Blueberry Gin Sour. Plus, every serving includes a dose of B-vitamins and two different electrolytes, so however you drink it, you can enjoy a craft, guilt-free beverage.

Moon Fruit Snacks Naturally sweet and deliciously crunchy, Moon Fruit Snacks are out of this world. With 1/3 cup of whole fruit per serving, the snacks are bursting with flavor and offer an easy, healthy snack choice for families on-the-go. Three delightful flavors include Straw-Bana, Blended Berry Blast, and Apple Cinnamon. Moon Fruit contains no added sugar, no artificial preservatives, no artificial colors, and no artificial flavors.

Niman Ranch - Iberian Duroc Five years ago, Niman Ranch set out on a global search to ensure it continues to offer an unrivaled eating experience. They tasted a lot of pork to find the best hog breeds and genetics that would create exceptional, consistent flavor and thrive in the brand’s outdoor-based farming model. An exclusive line of genetics was discovered by their meat quality expert on the Iberian Peninsula, a region that has long-prized pork quality. The Iberian Duroc lineage, exclusive to Niman Ranch, is defined by its robust marbling and exceptional flavor, delivering an unforgettable eating experience. Always 100% Certified Humane®, no antibiotics ever and raised outdoors or in deeply bedded pens. Niman Ranch’s Iberian Duroc is on the menu at some of the country’s most celebrated restaurants, including James Beard award and Michelin Star recipients, as well as at specialty grocers for discerning home cooks.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

North Dakota Sweet Crude In a town as small as Zap, ND, there are no strangers, and there’s always a reason to celebrate. 100 years ago, these occasions were toasted with Martin Weidner’s “smokehouse moonshine” – a crude spirit that mixed well with the rugged nature of North Dakotans. Old man Weidner passed his recipe on to his children, who shared it with theirs. Generations of Weidners have added their polish but left the liquor unrefined (as a good hooch should be). In recent years, the Weidner brothers were known to share it with the farmers who invited them to hunt their land, keeping on the tradition of toasting with friends and neighbors. A 75 proof, sweet liqueur, very smooth with a strong cinnamon flavor and lingering notes of citrus, ginger and lemongrass, with no burn. Enjoy straight, on the rocks or in mixed drinks but always in good company.

NRGCube NRGCube is a fully self-contained power supply. It can both supply power to the induction heaters that are included and be recharged without an external charger, just plug it into an outlet. NRGCube is mobile and has a pull-up handle for ease of movement. It has 2 swivel casters and 2 rigid 4” casters for directional movement. It fits neatly under a typical banquet table with chafing dishes on top of the table. The units include 2 induction heaters with controls that plug into the outlets provided on the unit and have built in storage space for the heaters. NRGCube’s power supply is Bluetooth compatible, monitor the batteries State of Charge and Remaining Run Time via mobile application.

Oat Boss Granola Butter Move over nut butter alternatives, Oat Boss Granola Butter has made its debut. Free of the top 8 Allergens, this delightful & creamy healthy alternative to nut & seed butters will be your new favorite. Granola Butter is a delicious fiber-rich fusion of the wholesome goodness of granola and the creamy indulgence of a spread. Go on– drizzle, blend or spoon it out for breakfast, a healthy snack or an after-dinner treat. Choose from 6 delicious varieties including Original, Blueberry Muffin, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Fudge, Donut and Shortbread. A limited-edition seasonal offering, Pumpkin Pie, is available in the Fall season. Only 6 grams of sugar per serving and nut free, seed free, gluten free, soy free and Non-GMO.

Once Upon A Coconut with Chocolate Once upon a time, in the land of taste bud adventures, a cocoa tree and a coconut tree decided to tango, creating a match made in beverage heaven. Behold the magic of Once Upon A Coconut with Chocolate—a drink so dreamy, it’s like a flavor fairy tale come true.Say farewell to sugar-loaded potions with more chemicals than a mad scientist’s lab. Once Upon A Coconut’s 100% Pure Coconut Water with Chocolate isn’t just a taste explosion; it’s a guilt-free party for your mouth. Picture this: rich, creamy coconut goodness that’s delicious and your ticket to the cool kids’ club of plant-based, vegan sips. Grab a can, dive into the enchanted world of Once Upon A Coconut with Chocolate, and let your taste buds embark on a flavor journey where health and happiness collide.

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Drink Better. Low Alc, Low Cal, No Bubbles. It’s water with a punchline. FUNNY WATER is a flavored water with a little bit of alcohol and no carbonation. As a first of its kind "hard water," FUNNY WATER is a "better for you" beverage that offers just the right amount of buzz for any occasion. With zero sugar, only 80 calories, and just 1g of carbs, FUNNY WATER is a refreshing way to drink better.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Onyx Coffee Lab Extractions Extractions is a first-of-its-kind coffee concentrate from Onyx Coffee Lab. What makes it unique? The product is created with a proprietary extraction method that maintains each seasonally sourced coffee’s full “terroir” and unique flavor profile. Shelf stable, Extractions is perfect for delicious specialty coffee on the go or to instantly add an elevated standard of coffee flavor to a variety of dishes and beverages.

Passion Tree Minis Variety Pack

Passion Tree minis bridge the gap between non-alcoholic and low-ABV beverages, offering the perfect portion for the mindful drinker. Dive into the world of mini, where less truly offers more. Their unique brew process, enhanced by advanced nano-filtration, ensures a clean, crisp taste with only 70 calories. For those who inspire to embrace balance, celebrate responsibly, and cherish every mini moment in life. The signature 7.5oz cans in the variety pack brings: 2 Coconut, 2 Lychee, 2 Guava, 2 Dragon Fruit, and 2 Boysenberry cans. Each pack sold helps plant one tree in Madagascar to fight deforestation.

Pescavore Ahi Tuna Jerky Strips Pescavore champions sustainability and local sourcing. They’re on a mission to reshape the seafood industry with a focus on preserving natural resources and supporting local economies. Their flagship product, tuna jerky strips, is a testament to their commitment to quality. Crafted from sustainably sourced, wild-caught seafood, the small-batch process ensures flavor, texture and nutrient retention while minimizing salt and sugar content. Co-founded by Matt Owens, a sustainability advocate, and Clarice Owens, an aerospace engineer turned food systems innovator, Pescavore combines expertise and vision. Their 1.5 oz single-serve, shelf-stable, smoked ahi tuna strips offer a healthier, eco-friendly alternative to traditional jerky. With milestones like the Seafood Innovation Center and securing funding, Pescavore is poised to lead the way in sustainable, healthy seafood snacks. Bridging the gap between meat snacks and the $2.7 billion shelf-stable seafood market, Pescavore provides a delicious solution with a purpose– Making waves in the world of snacks.

Pickle Juice Pickle Juice, different from pickle brine, believes in providing natural and healthy aid to the physical aches and pains that interfere with daily activities. Their functional beverages are USDA Organic certified, sugar, gluten, and caffeine-free, non-GMO, non-carbonate, provide instant cramping relief by blocking the neurological signal that triggers muscle cramps, and contain no artificial colors or flavors. Pickle Juice is scientifically proven to stop muscle cramps, a condition that affects an estimated 60 percent of adults. Even more, it has 15x the electrolytes of common sports drinks. Each Pickle Juice shot contains a proprietary blend of grain and vinegar – putting a halt to muscle cramps before they even start. They are great before long trips, to keep on your bedside table for foot cramps at night, or to chug before intense activities.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Poi Dog Huli Huli Huli Huli sauce is a pineapple-based marinade and dipping sauce that marks the newest addition to Poi Dog Sauces, the woman and AAPI-owned line of Hawai’i at-home condiments. Its versatility makes it the perfect “secret” ingredient for chefs — it brings a deep, sweet savoriness to basted chicken, marinated vegetables, mushrooms, and even burgers. Huli Huli can be used simply as an umami-rich ketchup replacement or as the foundation for an innovative dish. Inspired by Chef Kiki Aranita’s home in Hawai’i Kai, a suburb of Honolulu, Poi Dog’s Huli Huli sauce bottles memories from her childhood, resulting in a sauce packed with sweet pineapple, deeply savory miso, and fragrant Chinese five-spice. Huli is Hawaiian for ‘turn’ with “Huli Huli” referring to many turns and the method of cooking Huli Huli Chicken over an open flame -- just one of the many methods to use the sauce.

Prevail - Original Beef In the realm of healthy snacks, Prevail Jerky has emerged as a beacon of innovation, and its Original Beef flavor stands tall as a testament to the brand’s commitment to quality and flavor. The meat snack landscape is rife with choices but Prevail Jerky’s Original Beef has carved a niche for itself, captivating the palates of healthy snack enthusiasts and food connoisseurs alike. A carefully curated blend of spices and herbs mixed with the grass-fed beef creates a flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced. The result is a jerky that tantalizes the taste buds with a perfect balance of sweetness, saltiness, and a hint of smokiness—a culinary masterpiece in the world of portable protein & it’s allergen free. So, the next time you reach for a snack, consider indulging in the extraordinary—choose Prevail Jerky’s Original Beef and savor a taste that prevails above the rest.

Prime Roots Plant Based Koji-Salami Berkeley-based Prime Roots is a plant-based meat company taking a fresh take on old world deli and charcuterie. The company crafted the first-of-its-kind sliceable deli and charcuterie in nostalgic flavors like turkey, ham, salami, pepperoni, bacon, pâté, and foie gras using koji that replicates the umami taste and texture of meat. The B-Corp’s mission is to satisfy meat cravings in a better way with plant-based deli meat that is clean, wholesome, and sustainable. The product is clean with no nitrates, cholesterol, hormones, antibiotics, soy, wheat, no top 9 allergens, and is non-GMO. We are featuring Prime Roots Koji-Salami which is a classic plant-based salami speckled with fresh peppercorns and savory spices inspired by the Genoa salami tradition. It’s a one to one swap for deli sandwiches and charcuterie boards to make a healthy option with far less impact on the planet.

Quinn “Pizzeria” Pretzel Nuggets Quinn “Pizzeria” Pretzel Nuggets are Certified Gluten-free, Non-GMO Project Verified, vegan friendly, and made without corn, soy, wheat and dairy. Made with a blend of lentil and sorghum flour, an ancient grain that is naturally gluten-free and better for the environment due to its drought-tolerant properties, along with sun-dried tomato powder that can be traced to the fields of Northern California, Quinn continues reinventing classic snacks using real food, no natural flavors, and ingredients you can trace back to the source, without sacrificing taste.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Rebbl Wellness REBBL WELLNESS is REBBL’s debut line of juice-based functional beverages and the first juices ever made with Aquamin™ calcified sea algae — a super ingredient clinically proven to support bone, joint and gut health¹. Offered in two refreshing varieties, Tropical Greens and Berry Roots, both WELLNESS juices pack a punch with 4,700mg of Aquamin™ calcified sea algae to deliver over 73 essential minerals in every bottle. Derived from red algae, Aquamin™ offers a range of research-backed benefits, from improving digestive health and gut microbiome to helping combat inflammation to support joint and bone health.

Red River Hot Cereal

Canada’s beloved hot cereal, Red River Original, made a comeback to store shelves in 2023, much to the delight of many Canadians. Arva Flour Mills, located in Ontario, bought the rights to Red River Cereal from Smuckers Canada and began making the cereal at their historic Mill in 2022. There’s something poetic about a 203-year-old Flour Mill resurrecting a near century old breakfast icon.

Rhum Barbancourt Striving to get the most possible delicate rum, Dupré Barbancourt applied the traditional French distillation methods used in his native Cognac region to Haitian sugar canes. Rhum Barbancourt’s grand specificity is to be distilled from this pure cane juice while other Caribbean rums use molasses (a residue from the sugar-refining process that only carries the essences left over after sugar extraction). Sugar cane juice has a broader diversity of aromas than molasses, thus conveying a richer, more sophisticated savor. The raw material difference translates into the taste of the distilled rum. Loyal to its soil and history, Rhum Barbancourt remains faithful to the tradition and principles of its founder. For over 160 years, Rhum Barbancourt has been produced by the same family (now 5th generation) through the exact same process, using unaltered methods.

Runamok Salted Caramel Maple Salted Caramel Infused Maple Syrup was the winner of Runamok’s 2023 Flavor Contest. This delicious and oh-so-caramel-y flavor uses caramel essence, pure maple syrup, sea salt, and Runamok’s famous Bourbon Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup to make the perfect sweet and salty profile we all know and love.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Saint James Tea Saint James Tea is a flavor packed, all-natural, ready-to-drink line of iced teas backed by industry veteran and co-founder of AriZona Iced Tea, John M. Ferolito. The certified organic teas are available in seven flavors with little to zero sugar - Original Green Tea, Passionfruit & Peach Green Tea, Pineapple & Mango Green Tea, Blood Orange & Hibiscus Black Tea, Classic Lemon Black Tea, Blueberry & Raspberry Black Tea and Red Raspberry Black Tea. All Saint James Teas contain no artificial flavors, colors, sweeteners, or preservatives, and are made without genetically modified ingredients. Environmentally conscious, Saint James Teas come in Tetra Paks created with low carbon materials and made of 70% paper from responsibly managed forests.

Salt Straw Ice Cream Cakes Salt & Straw first ever ice cream cakes, created by co-founder Tyler Malek, are decadent seven-layer cakes that combine layers of ice cream, freshly baked cake and mix-ins. He partnered with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson to develop two cake flavors, both inspired by Dwayne’s favorite holiday treats and cheat meals and celebrating his holiday alter-ego “Dwanta.” Naughty: A rich coffee-spiked cake base is topped with dark-burned caramel chocolate fudge, layered with whiskey caramel ice cream, tender hunks of sea salt-flecked peanut butter chocolate chip cookie dough, and finished with heaps of crunchy, chocolate-peanut butter puffs. Nice: An ode to Dwanta’s favorite coconut banana pancakes, the cake has a coconut cake base that is laced with vanilla, and then layered with Oregon marionberry jam, rum-spiked Bananas Foster ice cream, and hunks of rich peanut butter chocolate ganache and is finished with candied coconut streusel scented with vanilla and warming spices.

Saludi Glassware Saludi Glassware launched in 2021 by Denver local small business owner, Dani. The company’s products started gaining traction after viral TikTok and Instagram posts - the most popular post had over 7.7 million views and over 373,000 likes. Saludi’s set of 6 Multi-Colored Wine Glasses was their first hit product. The glassware has a sexy and modern shape with an attractive jewel tone color palette. The company has since expanded to champagne flutes, coupes, and stemless wine glasses, with exciting additional products to be released later this year. Saludi’s mission is to bring people together. Saludi believes in the unifying power of community to love and encourage each other, seeking the good in people, life, and the world around them. This is why they create visually stunning products that promote living colorfully with others. Saludi is rooted in the celebration of all of life’s beautiful moments.

Sensegen Exotic Flavor Collection Sensegen, the biotechnology-based taste, smell, and beauty solution provider unveiled its Exotic Flavors collection, a testament to its commitment to innovation and sustainability. This Southern California-based flavor and fragrance house introduces six authentic-to-fruit flavors, including lychee, guava, papaya, yuzu, dragon fruit, and violet, offering a consumer-curious flavor adventure for the food and beverage industry. Aligning with Sensegen’s dedication to sustainability, the Exotic Flavors collection is crafted using bioconversion techniques, ensuring top-tier quality and authenticity while minimizing environmental impact. This launch is a culmination of Sensegen’s unwavering pursuit of unique taste experiences. Underpinning the Exotic Flavors collection is Sensegen’s proprietary quantitative research, surveying over 1,500 consumers nationwide. This in-depth study delves into the dynamic interplay of mood, food, and beverage choices across various scenarios. Sensegen’s insights discuss mood-centric flavors that resonate with diverse consumer preferences. The research offers invaluable guidance to food and beverage companies seeking to inspire with mood-centric flavors.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Signature Systems Third Party Fulfillment (3PF) Signature Systems, Inc. (SSI), an acclaimed, multi-award-winning technology solutions provider that excels in point-of-sale solutions for all-concept F&B, announces the release of Third-Party Fulfillment (3PF), an innovative, agile, and cost-effective solution that measurably enhances the guest experience, significantly reduces labor costs as it relates to delivery, ensures the lowest third-party delivery rates, and automates delivery dispatch. By realizing the inherent issues that owners/operators face while managing ‘off-prem’ delivery--especially as it relates to costs, staffing, and customer satisfaction, SSI created a new industry standard, one that will allow for seamless, on-time delivery by harnessing 3rd party staffing, whenever needed, via programmatic “bid-out “ with industry titans such as Uber Eats and DoorDash. “3PF” also allows for the expansion of delivery areas and volume; single-fee order stacking; real-time tracking with ETAs, conventional and autopilot-driven driver dispatch; and enhanced reporting and data analytics.

Singani 63

2023 was a big year for Steven Soderbergh’s Singani 63 and it’s country of origin, Bolivia, making it one of the well deserved “Products of the Year”. After an almost nine year battle led by the Oscar winning filmmaker, in conjunction with the Bolivian government, the U.S. (T.T.B.) officially recognized Bolivia’s national spirit as a distinctive product and a specific type of brandy (since it’s made from the Muscat of Alexandria grape), making it the newest official spirits category in the United States in over a decade. Before Soderbergh fell in love with the aromatic spirit, it had never been out of landlocked Bolivia. Now it can be found across the US, UK and Caribbean beloved by top mixologists for its versatility. Singani should now be on everybody’s bar next to the other staple spirits.

Solely Fruit Jerky Solely’s beloved fruit jerky line is now available in Whole Foods in 3 Fruit Jerky Multipacks; Mango, Pineapple, and Banana Cacao. Solely’s Fruit Jerky is gently cold pressed to seal in nature’s perfected recipe. The jerky transforms fresh, organic produce into a tasty, all natural, single portion, jerky snack. The tasting experience of the fruit jerky is akin to that of biting into a fresh fruit in texture, aroma and taste. Each strip is one whole fruit (1/2 of fruit in the case of the pineapple flavor), without any added sugars, concentrates, sulfites or other hidden ingredients. These new multipacks come with 5 individually wrapped single servings – perfect for on-the-go snacking. The company’s progressive, plant-forward philosophy has resulted in a line that is vegan, kosher, Non-GMO and USDA organic.

Southern Aluminum EVO Nesting Tables Revolutionize service & execution with EVO, Southern Aluminum’s innovative mobile nesting tables. This dynamic product will elevate your food & beverage presentation through its multi-faceted modular design no matter the need or purpose. EVO’s adaptability allows for seamless customization of buffets, coffee breaks, action stations, and more. Easy-glide casters and varying heights and sizes will offer great efficiencies within busy environments. With a robust design, residential aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship, EVO is a testament to Southern Aluminum’s decades of producing quality products built to withstand the rigorous demands of a bustling F&B operation.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Spritz Society Spritz Society is an award winning sparkling wine cocktail brand created by media influencers and entrepreneurs, Ben Soffer, Claudia Oshry and Jackie Oshry. Founded on the idea that taste matters, Spritz Society takes all natural, recognizable ingredients and packs them into convenient sparkling cocktails because life’s too short for drinks you don’t love. Made with real white wine and real fruit flavors, Spritz Society comes in five flavors that were crowdsourced by their loyal community - Grapefruit, Peach, Blood Orange, Pineapple, Pink Lemonade, Passion Fruit, and Lemon. Each 8.4 oz can is 120 calories, 6% ABV and is gluten-free.

Stella Rosa Spicy Series America’s #1 Italian import, Stella Rosa Wines, stays hot even during the holidays with its new Spicy Series. The collection launched in Spring with Pineapple & Chili, the fastest selling wine to enter the market this year, followed by Mango & Chili and Lime & Chili. Stella Rosa comes from the Piedmont region of Northern Italy, an area known for producing exquisite wines. The Spicy Series start with high quality Moscato grapes and gets unique flavors from all natural fruits and Italian chili peppers. The final product is an outstanding semi-sweet, semi-sparkling, and semi-spicy wine that is also naturally gluten-free and low alcohol, so you can enjoy an extra glass without the guilt. Stella Rosa Spicy Series wines are best served chilled, over ice, or, if you’re feeling creative, make a spicy margarita! No matter what, Stella Rosa Spicy Series won’t disappoint, though you will wish you discovered it sooner.

Sunday Supper Vegan Italian Sausage Lasagna Enjoy a no-compromise, plant-based take on the traditional sausage and cheeses lasagna. Sunday Supper developed their lasagna with the help of Italian chef Celestino Drago. With his skills, loving attention, and some of his own family traditions, Sunday Supper has transformed the traditional Italian lasagna into one that’s made with 100% plant-based ingredients – and you won’t miss the meat. Sunday Supper is a brand that brings an authentic taste of Italy straight to your family’s dining room table with its range of Chef quality, Italian-inspired meals perfect for family gatherings.

Sunshine Punch In the world of ready-to-serve beverages, Sunshine Punch has undoubtedly made its mark. This delightful concoction is a harmonious fusion of tropical sunshine and indulgent creaminess, bound together by the warmth of rum. What sets Sunshine Punch apart is its versatility. Whether sipped on the rocks, blended into a tantalizing cocktail or enjoyed straight from the bottle, it caters to a wide range of palates. The zesty orange burst invigorates the senses, while smooth creaminess provides soothing contrast. The convenience factor here cannot be overstated. Sunshine Punch eliminates the need for mixology skills, making it accessible to all. Its vibrant, sunset-hued packaging adds an aesthetic appeal, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. With Sunshine Punch Rum, a sip of sunshine is just an uncorking away, making it a must-have for those seeking both convenience and a delightful, flavorful escape. This ready-to-serve liquor deserves its place in the sun.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Sweegen Sweetensify™ Flavors Sweegen is at the forefront of sugar reduction solutions, harnessing wellness ingredient technologies, innovation, and our deep food and beverage expertise. The global sweetness and flavor innovator launched Sweetensify™ Flavors, its newest flavor tool for food and beverage producers to create better-for-everyone products. Powered by Sweegen’s novel sweet protein technology including brazzein, thaumatin II, and other unique proteins, Sweetensify Flavors improve and modulate sweet flavor, creating a sugar-like experience, thereby pushing the boundaries of healthier product innovation. Sweet proteins like brazzein have an affinity for different taste receptors on the tongue, especially the receptor known as T1R3, which is associated with both umami and sweetness perception. Leveraging this unique attribute, Sweetensify Flavors will enable product developers to reduce the amount of sugar they use in products while maintaining the quality of characteristic flavors and sweetness.

Sweet Chaos Hot Cocoa Drizzled Popcorn

Just in time for the holiday season, Sweet Chaos has debuted a cozy and delicious gluten-free, non-GMO Hot Cocoa Drizzled Popcorn. Perfect for gifting, entertaining or just enjoyed by the handful, the new drizzled popcorn is the perfect mix of salty and sweet with a hint of a favorite winter treat. The new seasonal offering joins a delicious line-up that includes Black & White Sugar Cookie, Iced Gingerbread, and Peppermint Crunch! Sweet Chaos Drizzles are Gluten Free, made with Non-GMO popcorn, and have no artificial colors or flavors. Non-GMO popcorn is popped in Coconut Oil, with just the right amount of Cane Sugar and Sea Salt, and then sprinkled with yummy drizzles.

Tabit Technologies TabitPad TabitPad is an all-in-one solution which replaces a restaurant’s existing Point-of-Sale systems and leverages mobile connectivity to streamline restaurant operations, extend sales opportunities, and elevate the overall experience for both operators and customers. Tableside interaction with the customers eliminates the need for servers to write down orders (or attempt to memorize them) and then have to key them into the POS terminal. The app’s intuitive workflow guides the server through the order taking process, ensuring they capture all relevant details, while providing the best customer service. The app-driven up-sell and cross-sell prompts provide servers with additional sales opportunities during the order taking process. Tabit customers have seen a 12-15 minute decrease in table turn time during peak times. The intuitive interface cuts down on training time, boosts customer loyalty and offers advanced monitoring and reporting, enabling operators to make smarter decisions, backed up by better data.

The Organic Crave Protein Chips The Organic Crave likes to approach things differently. They are here to change how the world craves and to take the guilt out of snacking. And that calls for better, healthier snacks. Snacks you can trust, made with real, nutritious ingredients. The organic protein chips series says goodbye to the usual no-good chips and hello to a better version. Besides being organic and vegan, the sour cream and onion chips have a sky-high content of natural plant-based protein. These hero chips are 100% lentil-based. Let that sink in for a minute. The net amount consists of 82% popped lentils sprinkled with 10% cold sunflower oil and 8% spices added to complete the flavor.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

The Pathfinder Hemp and Root The Pathfinder Hemp and Root is a non-alcoholic spirit that is fermented and distilled from hemp with the intense flavor and aromatic characteristics of a spirit with none of the harmful effects of alcoholic beverages, made with eight botanicals, natural terpenes and bad-vibe-dispelling mystique. This ingenious zero-proof spirit is fermented from hemp and carefully refined by copper pot distillation. The base liquid is then blended with an alchemy of wormwood, angelica root, ginger, sage, juniper, saffron, orange peel, and wild-crafted Douglasfir, as well as natural terpenes, to yield a revolutionary spirit of both character and complexity. The Pathfinder Hemp and Root shines in a variety of ways, including the brand’s signature spritz recipe, but it can also be taken as a shot, sipped neat, served on the rocks or used to modify a multitude of classic cocktails. In other words, it fits right into the back bar of any cocktail destination as well as it does for home bar carts.

The Smart Apron Waist The Smart Apron Waist design has 7 pockets, 2 with zippers, to secure important items, 2 medium and 2 small side pockets to hold pens or coupons and 1 large middle pocket to hold a handheld point-of-sale device or guest check. Smart Aprons incorporate a quick release clip waistband and to ensure durability, there are 20 reinforced stress points and seams are double stitched. Smart Aprons are made from a 70% polyester and 30% cotton fabric, which is stain resistant and comfortable. Smart Apron’s most appealing aspect is its adaptability to assist a wide range of customers that need an apron to organize all their essential items for work or for home.

Thomas Ashbourne Craft Spirits The Perfect Cosmo by SJP The double-gold award-winning The Perfect Cosmo by SJP from Thomas Ashbourne Craft Spirits was cofounded by the reigning queen of Cosmo, Sarah Jessica Parker. The colorful, ready-to-sip vodka cocktail is as flirty as it is fun. An explosion of sweet cranberry gives way to a hint of strawberry, all rounded out with an aroma of freshly squeezed lime, mixed with smooth vodka. Every batch is sustainably handcrafted in the U.S. using all-natural, Kosher ingredients. It’s everything a good Cosmo should be: indulgently sweet, refreshingly tangy, and pink!

Tipsy Bottle Opener The perfect fusion of form and function. This bar accessory is not just your average bottle opener, it’s a decorative piece that will elevate any home bar setup. With its sleek cast metal construction and polished chrome finish, Tipsy is not only built to last, but it also exudes a sense of sophistication and elegance. But what sets Tipsy apart is its unique balancing stand (included), which allows it to stand upright on its own or on any edge surface. It’s not just a bottle opener - it’s a conversation starter and a sculptural masterpiece. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a quiet drink by yourself, Tipsy is sure to impress. This bar accessory also makes for the perfect gift for any friend or loved one. With its dual, interactive function, it’s both practical and playful. So go ahead, add a touch of whimsy to your bar collection with the Tipsy Bottle Opener.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Top Note Cascara Cola Cascara Cola is an innovative beverage created with cascara fruit—the discarded red berry portion of the coffee bean—and organic caffeine. Cascara Cola from Top Note delivers a familiar cola flavor while embodying the principles of a “better-for-you” drink. By incorporating monkfruit for 50% of its sweetness, the beverage manages to keep its sugar content low, offering only 90 calories per 12 oz serving. With a blend of robust cola notes, including cinnamon, vanilla, and orange peel, Cascara Cola presents a rich and distinctive flavor profile. Specifically crafted for adults seeking elevated non-alcoholic options, Top Note’s inventive soft drinks are tailored for various settings, including bars, restaurants, coffee houses, and homes, providing an uncompromising fusion of sophisticated flavor and straightforward refreshment.

Urban Moonshine Original Bitters

Urban Moonshine is an independently owned, women-run company, driven by a passion for herbalism. Urban Moonshine stands behind the principle that plants are for everyone, and herbalism serves as a gateway to deepen our relationship with them. Re-launching their full line of products this year, Urban Moonshine celebrates its Original Bitters as a soothing solution for symptoms of gas, bloating, and indigestion while promoting detoxification and healthy liver function. Bitters stimulate the body naturally to ignite the digestive fire, support the production of hydrochloric acid, pancreatic enzymes and bile, and help ensure normal bowel habits. They are also traditionally used for skin health. Urban Moonshine’s Original Bitters is made from an herbal blend of organic products including: Dandelion Root & Leaf, Burdock Root, Orange Peel, Fennel Seed, Yellow Dock Root, Angelica Root, Gentian Root, and Ginger Root.

Valor Valor is a tequila that is delicately smooth, impeccably clean and deeply connected to its roots. Each sip is a testament to our commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainable practices. The global tequila industry is booming but the fruits of its success aren’t typically reaching those who deserve it most. The female founder envisioned a business that could return the prosperity of tequila’s success back to the local artisans – those who are the heart and soul of the spirit. Valor, with its heart firmly rooted in respect, follows a holistic process that strives to leave a positive impact on the environment and the people involved in crafting our exceptional tequila. The company’s priority in the coming years is to build infrastructure for clean water and sustainable practices to help fuel the local community.

Veggie Underground Vegan Cheese Veggie Underground is the only vegan cheese made with real vegetable purees that melts and tastes just like the dairy version. It comes in carrot, parsnip and red bell pepper varieties. Veggie Underground is WBENC (women owned certified) and LGBTQ owned. The carrot cheese won a sofi™ Best New Product award in 2022. The products are made in the US from US grown ingredients, certified non-GMO, allergen free, palm oil free & the only vegan cheese made with real vegetable purees.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Vida Valiente Winery The Movement Vida Valiente Winery, the renowned St. Helena label, made a triumphant return with their highly anticipated 2021 vintage wines after a year-long hiatus due to fire damage that forced the omission of the 2020 vintage. Their flagship wine, “The Movement,” is a blend of three prized Napa vineyards: Vida Valiente Estate, High Ranch and Beckstoffer’s To Kalon. This rich, inky wine offers immediate enjoyment but promises to age gracefully for decades. Beyond its exceptional taste, “The Movement” serves a higher purpose. For every bottle sold, $100 directly supports the Vida Valiente Foundation, benefiting first-generation, low-income students pursuing four-year degrees. Currently, the foundation assists 73 scholars at Stanford University within its first two years and plans to expand its annual support. Co-owner Susana Drumright, a first-generation college graduate with Guatemalan and Mexican roots, passionately champions this cause, making each bottle a contribution to both your wine collection and your karma.

Vine to Bar Every Vine to Bar chocolate upcycles the WellVine™ Chardonnay Marc into delicious, earth-friendly dark chocolate. This new line uses a novel ingredient — upcycled pressed chardonnay grapes and it’s made from dried and milled grape skins, seeds, and pulp that would typically be discarded after winemaking. But a unique process transforms the residue into a nutrient-dense ingredient that also adds a fruity taste to chocolate. By using the whole grape, the company is making a difference to our planet, since less needs to be reabsorbed by the land. What was once an underutilized co-product is now a superfood that makes Vine to Bar chocolate euphorically delicious.

Otis Spunkmeyer Sugar Cookie Otis Spunkmeyer frozen cookie dough baked fresh in your restaurant is the perfect foundation for any dessert. Dress the Otis Spunkmeyer Sugar Cookie up with toasted pecans and homemade maple frosting or roll the Otis Spunkmeyer Chocolate Chunk Cookie into a fun stick for dipping in melted chocolate. Otis Spunkmeyer frozen cookie dough adds more profit by increasing customer impulse purchases, plus, it’s low labor and incredibly delicious.

ZENB - Lasagna Authentically crafted in Italy, each soft and chewy, no-boil, oven-ready sheet of ZENB Lasagna allows you to build a complex layered dish with a healthier upgrade. ZENB Lasagna delivers 20 grams of protein and 12 grams of fiber per 3.5 ounce serving all while maintaining the palate-pleasing texture of wheat pasta with a bouncy and tender al dente bite. ZENB Pastas are gluten-free, non-GMO, vegan and have no artificial flavors or preservatives.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Zia Pia EVOO Zia Pia offers beautiful ceramic EVOO that not only looks delightful but tastes just as delicious. One offering they provide is the “Fantasia” ceramic bottle that comes in a variety of colors and patterns and is hand-painted by local artisans of the Puglia region of Italy, where the award-winning Frantoio Galantino olive mill is located. It is filled with their delicious and authentic extra virgin olive oil made from Ogliarola and Coratina olives. Golden yellow-green in color and well balanced flavors of almond and artichoke make this an ideal extra virgin olive oil for everyday use. Great for cooking and for dressing a salad.

Zurge

Your morning cup of coffee just got a whole better with Zurge, a supercharged, scientifically backed, brain supplement coffee blend. This potent and complete brain-boosting brew supports cognitive function, memory concentration, sharpness, acuity, focus, and neuro regeneration. Zurge’s Proprietary Brain Boosting blend is formulated with CognatiQ®, clinically proven to significantly increase levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), a key neuroprotein vital to learning, memory, and higher thinking. Lion’s Mane Mushroom, clinically shown to promote nerve function and growth by supporting Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). Stabilized Rice Bran, a flagship ingredient with over 100 nutrients in one easy-to-take serving. And Coffeeberry® cascara rich in potent antioxidants providing a hint of caramel like sweetness. A new experience made with 100% Colombian coffee espresso blend.

Alpet D2 Surface Sanitizing Wipes Alpet D2 Surface Sanitizing Wipes are a ready-to-use, no-rinse, lintless wiping system for food contact surfaces. Alpet D2 Surface Sanitizing Wipes are available in a heavy-duty 90-count wipe and a 160-count medium-duty wipe. As with all Best Sanitizers wiping systems, the spring-loaded lid closes on its own to prevent the drying of wipes, helping to eliminate unnecessary waste. Kills 99.999% of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica (formerly typhimurium), and Listeria monocytogenes as a food contact surface sanitizer.

Amari Amari is a delicious, non-sparkling, no sugar sports drink with a unique blend of functional ingredients made for everyone to enjoy the activities they love. Amari’s wholesome blends of turmeric, ashwagandha and gentle ingredients are designed to reduce inflammation from exercise and improve joint comfort in a convenient drink. Berry Lemonade is Amari’s top seller and combines the juicy sweetness of blueberries with the citrus pucker of lemonade.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Amaro Montenegro Amaro Montenegro is Italy’s most iconic amaro, celebrated as the world’s best liqueur. The luxurious spirit truly symbolizes Italian excellence through its top-secret recipe blend created in 1885. Amaro Montenegro is a bartender favorite that can be found at most bars across the U.S. Classically garnished with an orange, a glass of Amaro Montenegro can also be enjoyed with a splash of soda or combined with mezcal for an elegant, unique drink called the M+M Cocktail. Hailed as the “IYKYK” favorite of bartenders, only the most in-the-know consumers order an M+M.

Armored Fresh Oat Milk American Cheese Slices Have you ever tasted plant-based cheese and thought – “wow this tastes like the real thing”? Unfortunately, few people have. Armored Fresh had this problem in mind and set out to make its Oat Milk American Slices taste, melt, and feel exactly how dairy-made cheese would. Although it is plant-based, the quality and flavor of Armored Fresh Oat Milk American Cheese Slices is astonishingly comparable to animal cheese, having a soft and chewy texture and its taste being described as high quality with the same delicious flavor as dairy cheese. Armored Fresh aims to make its cheese identical to dairy-made cheese, giving dairy-free individuals more food options and leaving a lighter footprint on the planet. Aiming to solve the problems that are usually found in vegan cheese and further replace dairy cheese, Armored Fresh is expanding the range of consumer choices through its fermentation technologies, and ingredient development and formulation.

Avensole Winery Retaggio 2020 Retaggio from Avensole Winery’s extraordinary estate blend, comprising 75% zinfandel and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, captivates from the start with a bouquet of red plum and opulent burnt caramel. The indulgence persists on the palate, offering flavors of smoky blackberry, luscious ripe strawberry, and a hint of pepper, culminating in a delicate dusting of cinnamon.

BG Château Magnol Château Magnol Haut-Médoc is a dry red wine from the Haut-Médoc region of France, made from a blend of four grape varieties: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. This wine is harmonious, well-balanced, full, fine, and elegant, with ripe tannins that provide structure and depth.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Back to Nature Fudge Mint Cookies Looking for nostalgic flavors with none of the bad stuff? Back to Nature Fudge Mint Cookies are made with simple, delicious ingredients like real peppermint oil, unbleached wheat flour, cane sugar and Dutched cocoa powder, and are always free from artificial colors and flavors, GMOs, high fructose corn syrup and hydrogenated oils. And, surprisingly, they’re vegan! Back to Nature has been remaking American classics since 1960, and believes that better-for-you should also taste better.

Best Day Brewing Kölsch Best Day Brewing’s Kölsch is light, crisp, and easy drinking with a nice toasty malt character and lighter hopping. Best Day uses a combination of Cologne and Pilsner Malts and Hallertauer Tradition hops to create a refreshingly complex, non-alcoholic Kölsch. The crisp and clean finish leaves you wanting another sip. The perfect year-round sip, Best Day Brewing’s Kölsch pairs well with sunshine, trailheads, and fish tacos.

Bosscal Mezcal Organic Joven Made only from wild-grown, hand-harvested Agave Durangensis (Cenizo) under the watchful eye of by 4th generation Mezcalero Uriel Simental Enriquez, Bosscal’s production process is equally painstaking and fully natural: in addition to the agave having grown without the use of any herbicides, pesticides, fungicides, or artificial irrigation, in the distillery processes are equally artisanal. The piñas are roasted in pits in the earth lined with volcanic rocks, then chopped and ground by hand. The juice undergoes a 2-day, spontaneous fermentation before being double distilled in stainless steel stills. Durango is of course the more mountainous, wild cousin to Oaxaca, the region which produces the lion’s share of mezcal. Bosscal’s Joven is certified organic by the USDA, EU, and SAGARPA Mexico. It is already offered on more than 2,000 restaurant menus nationwide, from leading chains to top cocktail bars.

Broken Shed Vodka Broken Shed Vodka is gluten-free and produced without additives, sweeteners or GMOs, distilled only three times and made with just three ingredients, two of them water. Ancient, mineral-rich water from New Zealand’s South Island and filtered spring water from the mountains of the North Island are combined with whey – a naturally-occurring, sustainable byproduct from free-ranging New Zealand cows – to create a crisp, clean vodka with a smooth, warm finish. Broken Shed’s natural ingredients make it perfect for sipping on the rocks, creating an infusion or elevating your favorite cocktail. Broken Shed Vodka’s new “Vodka From A Different World” campaign invites consumers to discover what vodka can be, from a place that is celebrated for doing things differently.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Bromic Low Clearance Recess Kit Bromic’s new Low Clearance Recess Kit fits seamlessly into standard ceiling joists, making incorporating a recessed electric heater into your outdoor dining area easier than ever before! Designed to integrate flawlessly with Bromic’s award-winning Platinum Smart-Heat™ Electric Series, the Low Clearance Recess Kit allows outdoor dining without the obstacle of portable outdoor heaters while creating a space that is usable all year long. Whether you’re retrofitting an existing patio space or starting from scratch with a new build, the kit is designed with a reduced cavity installation clearance of as low as 7.1”, simplifying the process and providing a sleek and unobtrusive heating solution.

Bubbies Bread Butter Chips Bubbies Fine Foods, the leader in premium fermented and pickled condiments, released its Spicy Bread & Butter Chips earlier this year, offering premium variety to a growing sweet pickle category. Spicy Bread & Butter Chip flavor is made with real Fresno chili peppers, clearly visible through the 25 oz glass jar. Bubbies original Bread & Butter Chips are already the number one refrigerated sweet pickle in both the “Natural” and “Multi Outlet with Convenience Stores” (MULO) channels. Spicy Bread & Butter Chips are found at stores across the country, including Whole Foods Markets, and online.

Cambro Pro Cart Ultra® Pan Carriers The Pro Cart Ultra® Pan Carriers from Cambro is an electrically-powered culinary marvel designed for simultaneous hot and cold food storage. This innovative cart supports diverse menu requirements with unparalleled adaptability. Engineered with advanced, high-density insulation, it not only maintains optimal temperature control for over 4 hours without electricity but also exhibits remarkable durability. This feature contributes to significant energy savings, up to 30% less than competing brands. Available in sizes for 8, 10, or 20 GN 1/1 food pans, the Pro Cart Ultra® is ideal for varied foodservice settings. Its combination of electric versatility, robust insulation, and sturdy construction makes it an indispensable tool for professionals prioritizing top-tier food transport and storage solutions.

CAULIPOWER Pizza Bites CAULIPOWER’s Pizza Bites are the first better-for-you frozen pizza snack with a cauliflower crust that truly delivers on the classic pizza bite taste experience people know and love. Same shape - something many other competitors haven’t been able to replicate - same delicious flavor, but with superior nutritionals. And of course the ONLY baked (never fried) pizza bite with a veggie-packed coating. CAULIPOWER Pizza Bites, available in two varieties - Four Cheese and Uncured Pepperoni - pack big flavor in a little pouch with melty mozzarella and zesty tomato sauce in a crispy, BAKED cauliflower crust. A classic childhood favorite reinvented, these perfect pillowy pizza bites are ready in minutes and gluten-free always.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Cave Spring Niagra Peninsula Riesling Cave Spring is a leading grower of premium wines that reflect the distinct terroir of the Niagara Peninsula, one of three Designated Viticulture Areas of Ontario. 100% Riesling harvested from select vineyard sites throughout the Niagara Peninsula region where limestone-clay soils, elevation and moderating breezes from Lake Ontario combine to create a medium dry, high quality Riesling. Cool temperature fermentation in stainless steel over a six week period using 75% selected and 25% indigenous yeasts; four months on the fine lees prior to bottling. Aromas of white grapefruit, red apple and yellow plum over top notes of honeydew melon, pastry dough and allspice. The palate is off-dry, medium-bodied with a crisp, citrus attack, softening in the middle with succulent Bosc pear fruit. Underpinned throughout by a light stoniness and delicate acidity, the finish combines white peach flavors with a lively, saline quality.

CityCheers Super App CityCheers is rolling out the CityCheers Super App to every bar and restaurant in America - FREE of charge. Thousands of restaurants are already included in the app, which provides comprehensive coverage of menus, operating hours, photos, specials, and events. The app also connects to each venue’s food delivery, reservations, loyalty, or any other third-party partner – everything is in one app. Geo-location searching allows patrons to discover new restaurants nearby and CityCheers offers powerful communication features for operators to engage with repeat customers. But, one of the most exciting features, CityCheers’ patented ExpressCheck mobile payment technology allows patrons to tip, pay, and go right in the app, whenever they’re ready. No more asking the server for the check or handing over a credit card! CityCheers charges patrons 50 cents for each ExpressCheck transaction, which allows the company to offer the platform to restaurants and bars free of charge.

Coravin - Pivot™ The Pivot™+ Wine Preservation System combines preservation with aeration, delivering a more aromatic and flavorful wine as you pour with the included Pivot Aerator attachment. The remaining wine is then preserved for up to 4 weeks, ensuring a fresh-tasting glass when you are ready for it. Match your wine to your mood, dinner courses, or the weather, the choice is yours.

Courage Conviction Signature Malt Virginia Distillery Company’s founder, Dr. George G. Moore, had a vision of producing world class single malt whisky in America. With his untimely passing, his wife and son inherited his vision, and are compelled by George’s often used expression, “Have the courage of your convictions.” Using the highest quality malted barley and fresh spring water fed from the Blue Ridge Mountains, the spirit develops in Virginia’s dynamic climate, allowing the broad temperature shifts to add depth to the whisky. Courage & Conviction Signature Malt showcases a fusion of old-world sherry casks, traditional bourbon barrels, and re-coopered cuvee European red wine STR casks, aged a minimum of four years. Notes of caramel and butterscotch evolve on the palate with hints of bright red fruits, raspberry, cocoa, barrel spice, and vanilla. The finish is creamy and exceptionally smooth.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Cravings Buttermilk Mochi Pancake Waffle Mix Cravings introduced Buttermilk Mochi Pancake & Waffle Mix, as well as two additional at-home baking mixes, with the goal of bringing new and younger traffic into the center of the grocery store by combining a fresh perspective on clean indulgence, an eye toward modernizing stale baking aisles, and Founder Chrissy Teigen’s culinary prowess. Bakers of all skill levels can enjoy this gluten-free, Non-GMO Project Verified and Kosher mix – you’ll find only a handful of ingredients in the box (never anything artificial!) and even less required for preparation: just add eggs, oil and milk. Additionally, Cravings baking mixes are packaged sustainably using 100% wind energy.

CRISTEL Non-Stick Frying Pan CRISTEL’s unique design with detachable handles and environmentally conscious product development are what sets the brand apart from others in the luxury cookware category. The brand’s removable handles automatically lock and can be interchanged from pans to sauté pans, to frying pans and lids, ensuring safety in the kitchen, and are available in a variety of materials and colors –wood, stainless steel, yellow, purple, black, white and more. Furthermore, all CRISTEL cookware can be stacked within one another to minimize space and also set easily in a dishwasher. CRISTEL’s Stainless steel Frying pan features an 18/10, brushed finish, detachable handle, with Exceliss® non-stick coating from Strate collection.

De Nigris Sweet Rosé Vinegar De Nigris has added a sweet rosé vinegar to their line of traditional and innovative products, aimed to spark creativity for home chefs and excite foodies nationwide. The De Nigris Sweet Rosé Vinegar brings elements and culinary experiences adored by fans of rosé wine into a kitchen staple. De Nigris Sweet Rosé Vinegar is naturally fruity and more floral when compared to the more intense, bittersweet notes of traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. It is made exclusively with the finest Ancellotta grapes in Italy and is a true sweet wine vinegar to adorn fresh dishes with bright, fruity accents. A combination of the slow cooking process of the grape must along with aging up to three years in oak barrels creates a sweet yet slightly acidic quality and gives the vinegar its signature pink color.

Destileria Barako Ube Cream Liqueur™ Destileria Barako introduces Ube Cream Liqueur™, a masterpiece blending Filipino heritage and innovation. This award-winning liqueur, featuring the distinct flavor of purple yam, has clinched top accolades: Platinum Medal at SIP 2023, Innovation Award at SIP 2023, Gold Medal at SFSC 2023, and World’s Best Cream Liqueur at WLA 2022. Beyond its global recognition, each bottle embodies the warmth of community, the joy of festivities, and the lively spirit of the Philippines. Join the revelry and savor the unique fiesta experience in every sip!

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THE PERMANENT SOLUTION TO WOBBLY TABLES. Rockless Table bases eliminate table wobble using innovative patented pendulum technology. The simple and durable mechanism enables the table base to seamlessly self-adjust to any level or uneven surface, ensuring a stable and wobble-free dining experience.

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Drops of Dough Drops of Dough launched with a chocolate chip cookie dough recipe 35+ years in the making, with a mission to fund pediatric cancer research. Children of three families living in the two co-founders’ town of 11,000 were diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare form of bone cancer, for which there was only one treatment. With a soft start in a local grocery store and online D2C sales, the early results were encouraging. Three years later, Drops of Dough operates in its own commercial kitchen (after renting space in a shared commercial kitchen for 2.5 years), production has increased, ice cream sandwiches were added to the product mix and awarded the Best New Frozen Dessert in the country, equipment has been purchased, and a solid production team has been formed. We have expanded into new and exciting sales channels: Cloud Kitchens, Private and Corporate Events, and onboarded with a national grocery distributor.

Feel Good Foods Jalapeño Bites Feel Good Foods’ Jalapeño Bites are the perfect fusion of textures and flavors. The fiery kick of the jalapeno is expertly tempered by the richness of the cheese filling, and the golden crispy coating adds a delightful textural contrast. In the competitive snack category, this creative flavor pairing sets the Jalapeño Bites in a league of their own. They reinforce Feel Good Foods’ mission of breaking down dietary barriers to good foods. The Jalapeño Bites are a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether served as a snack, an appetizer, or paired with a delicious dip, these bites add a burst of flavor and excitement to any meal. More than a product, these Jalapeno Bites are a testament to Feel Good Foods’ culinary innovation, quality, and commitment to making unforgettable flavors accessible to everyone. Unparalleled in both its taste and craftsmanship, these Jalapeno Bites push the boundaries of snack food.

FinaMill FinaMill is a reinvented spice grinder. The magic is in the interchangeable, refillable, pods. Go beyond salt and pepper and grind everything from mustard seeds to cumin, minced garlic to dried lemon peel. It even grinds dried herbs! Stylishly designed, this award-winning spice grinder moves easily from kitchen to grill to dining room table adding a burst of fresh flavor to every meal. And it’s rechargeable with charges lasting well over 4 months.

FiveStar Gourmet Foods Salad Shakers FiveStar Gourmet Foods introduces a revolutionary way to now enjoy single-serve salads with their new Simply Fresh Salad Shakers product line. Unlike with traditional single-serve salads, which usually result in only some greens getting dressing and others remaining bare, this new patented “Salad Shaker” bowl system makes mixing easy and fun. The shaking truly covers every bit of the salad with dressing, without the mess. Now shoppers no longer need to struggle with ensuring all of their greens and toppings are mixed together.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

FoodStory Brands Yellowstone Coffee This year, FoodStory Brands and Paramount Consumer Products partnered to curate an elevated, authentic line of elevated cowboy cuisine that brings the rustic roots of Yellowstone, Paramount Network’s #1 hit television series, to life in Americans’ kitchens. The provisions line embodies the Dutton family’s rugged ethos for fans to indulge in the flavors of the West including Yellowstone Coffee. With 100% Arabica coffee beans for a highquality, full-bodied taste, the coffee line includes the smooth and balanced notes of Bunkhouse Medium Roast, the bold and robust profile of Ranch House Dark Roast and the sweet and indulgent taste of Caramel Oatmeal Light Roast. The products are available in 12-count Single Serve coffee pods and 12 oz. bags of ground coffee, both of which are available at Kroger, Walmart and on Amazon.

Free AF Apero Spritz Free AF was founded to inspire a better relationship with alcohol and make not-drinking cool AF. The original Italian classic is made with orange liqueur, prosecco and club soda. Their non alcoholic version is made with Afterglow™, a natural botanical heat extract which mimics the pleasant warmth of drinking, without the alcohol, and is perfect for aperitivo lovers who like to stay sharp AF. Serve Free AF Apero Spritz with a slice of orange, skewer of olives or a sprig of rosemary.

General Foodservice 20qt Planetary Stand Mixer General Foodservice’s 20 Quart All-Purpose Commercial Stand Mixer uses dual motion planetary mixing action that consistently blends, mixes, and aerates delivering beautiful results for any commercial kitchen application. The built-in performance enhancing and safety functions on this industrial food mixer ensures years of durable efficient use. The integrated features on this unit can be maintained easily with proper attention and preventative maintenance. General mixers deliver years of trouble free, reliable, low maintenance, efficient operation.

Harvest Snaps Crunchy Loops Harvest Snaps Crunchy Loops deliver big time flavor with three super-tasty varieties that will throw your tastebuds for a loop: Smoky Kick’n BBQ, smooth Sour Cream & Onion, and fiery Hot & Spicy. These pulsepowered snacks are made with farm-picked red lentils, milled whole in house for maximum nutrition, as the first ingredient to provide plant protein and fiber in every crunch-tastic serving. Baked (this is a no fry zone!), the BFY loops are also certified gluten free, non-GMO, vegetarian friendly, plus contain no artificial flavors or preservatives, no palm oil, no soy, no nuts, no peanuts, no wheat, and no eggs.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Heritage Eggs Happy Egg From their rich and buttery, plump amber yolks surrounded by light and creamy whites to their striking, pastel blue and deep brown shells, Happy Egg’s Heritage Free Range Eggs are unlike anything else you’ll find on retail shelves. Award-winning chefs, celebrities, and at-home foodies alike appreciate the distinctively different taste of the premium, American Humane Certified eggs. Laid by the company’s exclusive Hölzl Blue and Hölzl Brown breeds, Happy Egg Heritage Free Range Eggs are raised on 8+ acres of land by small, family farms across the Ozarks and the Midwest. The thoughtfully raised hens have year-round access to the outdoors on 21.8 square feet of range per bird (10x the space of most free range farms), plus receive daily care from farmers and a specially formulated diet.

Illicit Elixirs Illicit Elixirs put the fun in functional with a line of fizzy and flirty, natural beverages that support the production of dopamine. The four vibrant and fruit-centric flavors (Let’s Party Peaches, Watermelon Lime Thirst Trap, Late Night Fruity Call and Vegas Debauch-A-Berry) are made with real fruit juice, no artificial sweeteners or GMOs, and include DopaJoy™, a proprietary blend of functional ingredients that supports dopamine production. The drinks are also nonalcoholic but mix very well with spirits. With a mission to bring “happy hedonism” to consumers everywhere through great-tasting drinks, unabashed design and fun AI-enabled packaging, Illicit Elixirs gives people permission to enjoy life, one sip at a time.

IMC Teddy’s Moon Hand Sink Teddy’s Moon Hand Sink is a unique hand sink designed to service multiple users at once while being handsfree operated. It consists of a rounded sink bowl mechanically attached to a pedestal, which fully encloses all plumbing for a sleek, modern look. Operation of the faucets is performed via foot pedals integrated into the pedestal. The Moon Hand Sink can easily accommodate up to 4 users at once, making it an attractive option for any facility where high volume hand washing is needed. Finally, the Moon Hand Sink is constructed from type 304 stainless steel - so it is capable of standing up to the toughest environments.

JonnyPops Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks JonnyPops Organic Rainbow Fruit Stacks bring a fun and tasty experience to the frozen novelty category, helping people choose organic more often. Each layer of the pop is a unique flavor, matching the color of each stripe. From top to bottom the flavors are Cherry, Orange, Lemon, Lime, Blue Raspberry and Grape. Consumers can customize their eating experience like never before by enjoying one layer at a time or combining layers to create their own taste experience! This groundbreaking innovation was made possible by the fact that JonnyPops self-manufactures their products allowing them to create proprietary technology and processes – And this six layer design is now patent-pending!

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Joydays Founded by Amy Cohn in 2022, she was inspired to create Joydays after being diagnosed with colon cancer, and seeing the need to create healthy alternatives that are low-glycemic index and still taste great. Joydays was founded with the urge to address and raise awareness about the lack of healthy snack options for those living with chronic conditions, and the overall importance of managing your blood sugar as it may lead to health complications. The brand is on a mission to make low-glycemic, blood-sugar friendly snacks accessible to the masses. Joydays is a leader in the world of blood sugar balance that makes better-for-you snacks that are low-sugar, low-carb and low-glycemic index. Available in Chocolate Chip, Double Chocolate and Peanut Butter soft cookies, each serving size contains 2 cookies, while containing 3g of sugar, 5g of fiber, and 3-5g of protein.

Kaldi’s Coffee AmeriKona Ameri-Kona is an exceptionally fruity blend of coffees from different producers of the Americas - including the only coffee commercially grown in the US, Kona. Honolulu Coffee (Kaldi’s brand) also grows, roasts and operates on the Hawaiian islands. This coffee is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of this section of coffee producers in the Americas released during the 4th of July timeframe. Ameri-Kona is specifically blended to give you an exceptional taste for the summer with notes of cherry cola, lemonade and peach pie. The Kona gives the blend a caramel sweetness and light florals, Colombia Aponte Nariño adds in delicious and unforgettable fruitiness, and our Relationship Coffee El Salvador Manzano adds chocolate notes and pleasing nuttiness.

Keep It Savory Salt Co Vanilla Bean Sea Salt Keep It Savory Salt Co’s Vanilla Bean Sea Salt is single-handedly changing the cookie game for everyone. It’s a secret ingredient that takes a “great” oatmeal or chocolate chip cookie recipe and transforms it into “Wow!” Same goes for roasted sweet potatoes and butternut squash. And French toast. Sprinkle some on coffee ice cream and the rim of a rum-spiked eggnog. Keep It Savory Salt Co “believes food tastes better when everyone’s at the table,” so they source fresh, whole beans direct from vanilla farmers around the globe who set their own prices. A company on a mission to invest in their neighborhood, this woman-, LBGTQ-, and teacher-owned company sources all their fresh ingredients from local farmers and vendors working to increase food access in their disinvested community. Their in-house slow cure process sets every dish apart - whether a special holiday meal, or regular Tuesday night dinner with the family.

Kenyon City Grill The Kenyon City Grill is a revolutionary electric grill transforming the grilling experience. Bid farewell to smoke and flames with this portable marvel suitable for any living space, from homes to apartments and balconies. Crafted from marine-grade 304 stainless steel, it boasts style, weather resistance, and rust-proof durability for indoor and outdoor use. The City Grill, with convenient carrying handles, ensures easy transport, and its dishwasher-safe lid and non-stick grate simplify cleanup. Achieving temperatures over 550˚F in five minutes, controlled by a precision knob, it guarantees an even cook, eliminating hot or cold spots. The disposable drip tray not only catches drippings but also enhances flavors, elevating the grilling experience. The Kenyon City Grill provides a stylish, hassle-free, and flavor-infused grilling adventure.

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LINENLESS SOLUTIONS DYNAMIC BUFFET & DISPLAY FURNITURE Elevate food, beverage, and retail presentations with Southern Aluminum’s EVO mobile nesting tables, the next generation in event furniture solutions.

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Kitchen Stickin’® Mounted Tape Dispenser Restaurant owners and staff are praising the first tape dispenser designed specifically for the kitchen. The innovation is getting big thumbs up from everyone from Executive Chefs to James Beard Award-winning authors. The Kitchen Stickin’® tape dispenser is designed to mount on a refrigerator, freezer, or wall and keeps a roll of tape and marker always within arm’s reach, yet up and out of the way. With a fixed location for both tape and marker, kitchen staff can always find them where and when they need them.

Kopke Tawny Port Kopke 20 Year old Tawny Port: This wood aged Port is a careful blend of different harvest years to achieve the classic characteristic of a true 20 Year Old Tawny Port. The fruit and varietal selection destined for a tawny port should focus on acidity and structure for long aging in wood barrels. At just the right time, fermentation is arrested by fortification with neutral grape spirit, preserving the wine’s natural sugars. The wines are then stored by harvest year in old wood barrels to allow the process of oxidation to slowly take its course. Each year a new blend is made by Kopke’s Master Blender, Carla Tiago. She carefully selects the different harvest years that will be blended to produce this year’s Kopke 20 yr old tawny port. Each year, the components used are different but the final result is the same classic Kopke style.

Lake Hour Lake Hour was co-founded by film producer Rich Peete and actor Wyatt Russell. They grew up spending a lot of their youth on and around lakes in the northeast and wanted to make a drink that reflected something of their feeling of nostalgia towards those times. It feels like everyone has a lake story or has spent time around them and they wanted to connect that feeling of timeless nostalgia with a spiked sparkling water that actually tastes good, made with real ingredients with subtle flavors, high quality spirits, only 109 calories, 3.4grams of pure cane sugar (no fake sugar BS or syrupy aftertaste), gluten free and in a can that you can feel proud to hold. They wanted to put everything they knew about storytelling into creating a drink people could enjoy and connect with.

Lesley Stowe Raincoast Crisps® Lesley stowe raincoast crisps® debuted new almond flour crisps that are wonderfully delicious plus naturally gluten free. These new gluten free almond flour crisps are the first of their kind in the gluten free category, and offer exceptional taste and ingredients. These crisps have the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a subtle caramel flavor from dried luscious dates and a coarse sea salt finish.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

LG Business Solutions LG CLOi ServeBot LG Business Solutions debuted the new innovative LG CLOi ServeBot (model LDLTR30) restaurant-focused service robot. The upgraded ServeBot makes it easier for restaurant owners to improve staff efficiency, safely deliver large amounts of food and dishes at once and provide patrons a futuristic experience that encourages repeat visits and word-of-mouth promotion via social media. As the first commercial robot to receive UL certification for safe operation in consumer environments, the ServeBot raises the bar even higher with upgrades such as independent suspension on all six wheels that ensures reliable transport for drinks and soups over rough or uneven floors. The ServeBot improves the customer experience with a high-definition touchscreen displaying customizable menus, specials and videos. The ServeBot also streamlines processes for restaurant staff with long lasting and autonomous charging options, the ability to guide patrons and Call Bell options for patrons to summon ServeBot for assistance.

Long Table Pancakes Popcorn Pancake/Waffle Mix Built to fuel an acrobat’s workout, Long Table’s best-selling popcorn pancake and waffle mix is the first and only retail product made with popcorn flour in the U.S. The world’s lightest, fluffiest flour made from ground popped popcorn is paired with buttery oat flour, tender almond meal and a hint of poppyseed for the perfect high-fiber, high-protein pancake. These wildly nutritious and delicious pancakes boast 11g of protein and 5g of fiber per prepared serving. On a mission to put better pancakes on the table today for a healthier world tomorrow, Long Table’s 100% heirloom grain mixes feature ingredients sourced directly from regenerative farmers to produce real food you can feel good sharing with the people you love.

Mariani Mango Fruit Chips Mariani’s Mango Fruit Chips are delicious, convenient, and feature 100% whole fruit. Produced using a unique and gentle drying process, Mariani’s fruit chips work to reduce the brand’s carbon footprint by using less energy than traditional drying methods. While these fruit chips are made using just one ingredient, each pouch is bursting with flavor and has the craveable crunch you look for in a chip-style snack — without added sugar, oils, flavors or stabilizers. Founded in 1906 in Northern California, Mariani has remained committed to the family’s century-old mission of inspiring healthy living while serving as a resource for those seeking highquality whole foods. By upholding their commitment to quality, innovation, and transparency, Mariani has cemented itself as the leading purveyor of the finest dried fruit products on the market.

Meati™ Foods Eat meati™ jerky Meati Foods™, creator of delectable, animal-free products crafted from the company’s patented, whole-food MushroomRoot™, is excited to announce eat meati™ jerky. Meati’s delicious and nutrient-rich MushroomRoot provides a juicy, tender, and animal-free whole protein jerky perfect for snacking on the go or on the couch. eat meati™ jerky is a shelf-stable snack series available for shipment direct to consumers’ doorsteps. It’s available in a three-flavor bundle featuring Original, Peppered, and Sweet Chile flavors, the jerky delivers delicious sustenance on the go powered by seven grams of complete protein alongside dietary fiber and micronutrients, including vitamins B2, B3, B5, B9, iron, potassium, choline, copper, zinc and magnesium.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Mingle This female-founded collection of ready-to-drink sparkling mocktails will make everyone feel part of the celebration, perfect for friends or family who may be newly sober, pregnant or simply scaling back on drinking. Each fruit and botanical-infused flavor can be enjoyed solo or used as a premium mixer. The gift set includes a variety of Mingle’s best-selling mocktail flavors - including Blood Orange Elderflower Mimosa, Cranberry Cosmo, Blackberry Hibiscus Bellini & more - which offer all the sophistication of your favorite craft cocktails, with zero alcohol!

MUD WTR Rise Cacao MUD\WTR started in 2018 with a mission to change the relationship people have with coffee. Its flagship product, :rise Cacao, did just that, leading the company to 20x growth from 2019 to 2022, over 130 million servings consumed, one million unique customers and nearly 40,000 five-star reviews. :rise Cacao is a coffee alternative consisting of 100% organic cacao, masala chai and functional mushrooms. With just a fraction of the caffeine found in coffee, it promotes focus, energy and immune support without the jitters, crash or poor sleep.

Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company Natalie’s Orchid Island Juice Company, the world-class juice brand known for crafting clean-label, mindfully sourced artisanal blends, recently announced the introduction of two tomato-centric blends: Red Tomato Reishi and Green Tomato Lion’s Mane. The brand’s newest tomato blends harness the power of a maximum of 5 ingredients, resulting in a delicious juice that is packed with natural health benefits, supporting the entire wellness ecosystem. Providing a clean source of hydration, and only 50 calories per serving, the Green Tomato Lion’s Mane blend includes: Fresh-Pressed American Green Tomatoes, Tomatillos, Lime, Lion’s Mane Mushrooms and Himalayan Salt. Natalie’s Tomato Reishi, a generational favorite, is made of fresh pressed tomatoes, Himalayan salt & reishi to support your wellness eco-system. Tomatoes are naturally packed with potassium and lycopene to ensure peak hydration and to reduce oxidative stress. Reishi has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and has been known to boost the immune system.

Nik Weis Urban Riesling 2022 Urban Riesling 2022 is made with 100% Riesling grapes from a diverse clonal selection and premium blue-slate soil vineyards. The Urban Riesling has everything you can expect from a fine Riesling from Germany’s renowned Mosel Valley. It has a complex, smokey and floral nose, a juicy, fruity elegant mouthfeel with minerality that finishes off-dry and crisp with the impulse to take the next sip. Named after the patron saint of winemaking, St. Urban, the Urban Riesling from Nik Weis offers a high quality wine at an affordable price.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Once Again Maple Almond Butter Made with ethically sourced, unblanched almonds that have been dry roasted and milled creamy smooth, Once Again’s maple almond butter features a beautiful blend of pure maple sugar and natural vanilla flavor with no salt added. An ideal dip, spread, or baking ingredient, the wonderfully rich-tasting product delivers 6g of plant protein per serving, contains no added preservatives, and is also Non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free certified, vegan, kosher, and part of the brand’s Honest in Trade program. Processed in a peanut-free facility and packaged in 16oz recycled glass jars.

Osena Spiked Coconut Water Divine Guava Osena Spiked Coconut Water has revolutionized the better-for-you canned cocktail industry as the world’s first and only zero-sugar, 100 calorie spiked coconut water. Osena hit shelves in the United States in 2021 as a truly differentiated spiked beverage amidst a sea of lookalike seltzers. Utilizing real coconut water packed with naturally occurring electrolytes, Osena offers consumers a better-for-you option that allows them to not compromise their health goals for enjoyment. Osena’s tropical and whimsical branding draws consumers into a new world of better-for-you alcohol. Osena is sold in two individual flavor 4-packs and a category-leading 8-pack variety pack called the “Islands Collection’’: comprised of Exotic Pineapple, Ripe Mango, Divine Guava, and Lush Dragon Fruit flavors. Osena is sold across the Eastern US and Aruba. Divine Guava is the signature flavor of the bunch, with a world-class flavor profile of one of the world’s most sought-after fruit flavors – delicious, candied guava.

Peter Zemmer Pinot Grigio 2022 Peter Zemmer Pinot Grigio 2022 is made by a third generation wine-making family with vineyards in and around Cortina s.s.d.v. in Alto Adige. The winery is a state-of-the-art solar-powered winery which allows them to take advantage of the region’s 300+ days of sunshine each year. Winemaker & proprietor, Peter Zemmer, has extensive experience, as well as detailed and innovative knowledge, that together with the perfect natural environment guarantees top quality and character of the wines. Made with all estate fruit, this Pinot Grigio has rich aromas as well as excellent acidity which makes this wine crisp, rich and particularly elegant. On the nose, enjoy elegant notes of flowers blended with typical tones of green apple and spices. On the palate, the wine shows melon and pear driven fruit notes in a full-bodied style while maintaining the fresh acidity so commonly associated with the Alto Adige.

Popcornopolis Nearly Naked Collection Sporting an updated look, Popcornopolis’ original Nearly Naked offering, Perfectly Salted, was recently joined by two new flavors - White Cheddar and Jalepeño Lime. The Nearly Naked Collection is made with premium gluten-free and non-GMO popcorn and is popped in coconut oil for a ‘butter-like’ taste! Coming in at only 3550 calories per cup and featuring bold flavor - these new offerings are perfect for your next movie night or snacking occasion!

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Poppi Grape Soda While nostalgic and beloved, most grape sodas don’t really taste like grape – probably because they’re made of artificial grape flavor, sodium benzoate and over 43g sugar. Yikes! In April 2023, poppi launched their version of grape soda and reimagined it by using clean ingredients. Made from the perfect blend of white and concord grapes (with a boost of prebiotics from agave inulin), it became an instant fan favorite and is now the brand’s #3 best-selling flavor. poppi is on a mission to create a culture of health and happiness by revolutionizing the soda experience. Formulated with only clean ingredients, each can of poppi contains less than 5 grams of sugar and 25 calories. What originally started as a personal remedy for founder Allison Ellsworth’s gut health and skin ailments, quickly became a farmers market favorite turned Shark Tank investment - and is now available at thousands of retailers nationwide.

Prairie Fresh USA Prime® Loin Prairie Fresh USA Prime® loin roast is the protein to serve the meat lovers in your life. This new line of premium pork sets an entirely new standard of quality in the meat case and makes it possible to bring restaurant-quality meal experiences home. The Prairie Fresh three-criteria evaluation process uses industry-leading proprietary technology to measure quality attributes and sort top-tier cuts for a higher level of consistency in every single bite. Prairie Fresh USA Prime loin roast is as close as it comes to pork perfection, satisfying the meat lovers in your life all year long.

Prime Shrimp New Orleans Style BBQ

Prime Shrimp, a company steeped in nearly 80 years of seafood industry knowledge, is working to revolutionize the seafood category with a fresh take on shrimp offerings. The brand offers sustainably sourced seasoned and sauced shrimp in vacuum-packed boil-in-bag technology unlike anything else seen in common seafood aisles today. With this unique value-added product, Prime Shrimp combines the best of quality and convenience to make shrimp a quick protein option for home chefs of any skill level. Their recently launched flavor, New Orleans Style BBQ, combines the tang of lemon butter and Worcestershire sauce with the spice of black pepper and chili flakes to create a standout dish found on local menus across the Crescent City.

Proud Source Proud Source makes natural alkaline spring water sustainably bottled at the source in eco-friendly, infinitely recyclable aluminum packaging. Available in still and sparkling varieties, both Proud Source springs are naturally filtered by thousands of layers of ancient rock, giving their spring water vital minerals and electrolytes with no additives and a clean, crisp taste. Proud Source is dedicated to giving back to the planet and tightknit local communities, creating jobs at their spring locations in rural Idaho and Florida while ensuring the conservation of their natural spring water sources.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Rameking® The Rameking® is a revolutionary new product for foodservice operators. The Rameking® organizes, stores, rotates, and dispenses filled portion cups. It is designed to be installed on the inside of commercial reachin cooler doors, saving an operator a ton of space in the cooler vs storing them on trays or in bins. The Rameking® also ensures proper FIFO (First In First Out) Rotation making sure customers are getting the freshest product first. With our 3M Tape, the Rameking® can be mounted to virtually any surface for shelf stable dressing and sauce cups. This innovative dispenser will work with any manufacturer’s 1.5 oz and 2 oz sauce cups and can be easily cleaned by removing the tubes and putting them in a dishwasher.

Remedy Organics Super Ube Glow Super Ube Glow is the first-ever ingestible beauty wellness shake to hit the market. The revolutionary blend designed to nourish from within and promote a radiant inner glow offers an ube, vanilla-like flavor and boasts a vibrant purple hue. The wellness shake is crafted with thoughtful and certified organic ingredients such as a proprietary Ube beauty blend (antioxidant-rich purple sweet potato, pomegranate extract, camu camu, and coconut), almond milk, MCT oil, and prebiotics. The formulation also offers 12g of plant-based protein and features a variety of benefits such as supporting gut nourishment, natural collagen production, and overall wellness. Formulated by holistic nutritionist and Founder, Cindy Kasindorf, Super Ube Glow breaks new ground as the first naturally derived purple wellness shake that is protein-packed, nutrient-dense, and superfoodcharged while leaning into ingestible beauty.

Rich Products On Top® Oat Milk Whipped Topping

Rich Products’ On Top® Oat Milk Whipped Topping delivers the dreamy, creamy and delicious experience of Rich’s popular On Top® portfolio – yet with plant-based ingredients. It fulfills the demand to eat healthier and more environmentally-friendly with a versatile dairy alternative—without sacrificing taste, texture or performance. It also satisfies growing consumer and restaurant operator demands for non-dairy options, customization, and “Instagrammable” drinks and desserts. This product by Rich Products is an industry-first innovation featuring sustainably sourced, whole grain oat milk as the hero ingredient. It is baseline clean, made without the Big 9 allergens, no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, and no Polysorbate 60. Its shelf life is 540 days frozen, 14 days refrigerated. Simply thaw in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, massage the bag, and serve. Uses are seemingly endless, from toppings on beverages, smoothies and soft serve dishes to pies and other delights.

Rockless Table 22 Dining Height Discover a new standard in dining excellence with Rockless Table’s 22” Dining Height self-stabilizing table base. Finally, your permanent solution to wobbly tables. Crafted from steel, sandblasted and coated with a durable powder finish; this innovative design boasts our patented ‘pendulum technology’, ensuring a stable dining experience on virtually any surface. No hydraulics, fluid, maintenance, or hassle. Convenience meets sophistication with built-in bag hooks for added practicality. Backed by a best-in-class 4-year warranty and a risk-free 30-day money-back guarantee, Rockless Table has earned its reputation as the go-to choice with countless 5-star reviews. Trusted by thousands of restaurants nationwide, Rockless Table’s table bases set the standard for simplicity, stability, durability, and style in dining establishments across the country.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Smeraldina Water Tetra Pak™ Family-owned company Smeraldina Water launched the new, eco-friendly Tetra Pak™ boxed container, sourcing natural artesian water from the Italian island of Sardinia. They are the first Italian water company to bring this innovative, sustainable, and fun packaging to the American consumer. The Tetra Pak™ is designed for the future, lowering environmental impact, improving content protection, and requiring less shelf space. More than 75% of the material for the packaging is plant-based and made from renewable sources, with paperboard from FSC® certified forests and its remaining plastic derived from sugarcane. The package itself is 100% recyclable and over 80% biodegradable.

Some Honey

Check out this no-mess and no-hassle sweetener! Some Honey’s single-serve honey spoons are now available at somehoney.com. Simply peel off the spoon’s wrapping to reveal a delicious serving of raw and unfiltered wildflower honey. No need for extra utensils or waste, just peel and enjoy! Wildflower honey has a delicately sweet flavor with earthy and floral undertones, making it the perfect sweetener for your morning cup of coffee or tea and the perfect complement to a savory snack. If one serving isn’t enough to curb your honey craving, check out their larger sizes of wildflower honey!

Sourhouse Goldie

Goldie by Sourhouse is the first countertop warming device dedicated to a sourdough starter. Invented by a home baker and industrial designer, this trendy new kitchen gadget is revolutionizing the way people across the country make sourdough bread. The sleek and compact warming device provides just enough warmth to keep a sourdough starter consistently in the “Goldilocks Zone” of 75-82ºF where it is the most active and healthy so bakers can bake their best bread all year round. Goldie features a small footprint with the capacity to hold up to a quart-sized jar; an auto-warming on/off switch; a transparent, borosilicate glass cloche so bakers can see their starter from anywhere in their kitchen; a simple three-zone thermometer (indicated with blue, gold, and red lights) that helps bakers anticipate their time to bake; and a Sourhouse Cooling Puck for the occasional need to cool down a starter.

SPIRIT Almond At a time when snacks make up 25% of our average daily calorie intake (the equivalent of a 4th meal) and the perils of processed food are more stark than ever, the time has never been better for a wellness-oriented, but fantastically delicious snack. SPIRIT Almond makes artisanal Japanese flavored almonds, and offers an elevated experience for those who seek greater joy and better nourishment from their snacks. The SPIRIT Almond Variety Gift Box is a complete reimagining of the nut assortment gift. This Gift Box is of sleek, modern design, which opens to reveal a generous 18-package assortment of uplifting, festive colors and contains something for everyone. Each of the six original Japanese flavors is perfectly calibrated to satisfy even the most discriminating foodie, and yet is created with good health in mind.

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Pairs perfectly with: • Natural Curing • Nitrite-Free Options

Beet Powder (Cultured) Celery Powder (Cultured)

• Color Retention • Shelf-Life Improvement • Pathogen Protection • Innovative Solutions

Cherry Powder (Vit. C) Vinegar and More!

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Stockeld Cream Cheese Stockeld Cream Cheese is the new dairy-free spread making waves in the New York City bagel scene. Made with cultured chickpeas & lentils, Stockeld Dreamery spent the last 4 years developing a truly revolutionary cream cheese that has all the tang and live cultures of dairy, minus the animals. It’s not just a good choice for your tastebuds, but also for the planet, as it boasts a remarkable 70% lower carbon footprint compared to traditional dairy cream cheese and packs 2g of protein per serving. The cheese is offered in 3 flavors — Original, Garlic & Herb, and Smoked Paprika & Chili, and is now carried as the top non-dairy option in over 50 bagel shops across New York and Philadelphia. Originally from Sweden, Stockeld Dreamery has been swiftly gaining popularity in the US and changing the way people see plant-based spreads, setting a new standard for sustainable, flavorful cheese alternatives.

StoveShelf Give your kitchen a clean and tidy look! StoveShelf is a magnetic shelf that quickly attaches to your stove, providing a sturdy storage space for condiments, spices, oils, and decor. There’s no need to purchase special adhesives or drill multiple holes into your kitchen walls. Just place this magnetic spice rack on top of your stove and you’re all set. Store all your condiments and spices without worrying about the shelf giving way. StoveShelf is fitted with silicone-encased neodymium magnets that keep it securely attached while protecting your stove. Measuring 30″ x 3.5″ x 1.5″, StoveShelf is designed to fit both flat and slightly curved stoves. The magnets can also be re-positioned for a custom fit. Cleaning this magnetic kitchen organizer is a breeze. Made in the USA, StoveShelf is extra durable and the stainless steel body withstands rust, odors, stains, and corrosion.

SuckerPunch Invigorating Pickle Juice The Invigorating Dill Hydration shot features calcium, magnesium, and help you replenish your electrolytes and eliminate cramping! At just 2oz in size, they are the perfect travel companion (TSA-friendly), or gym bag hero.

The Daily Crave Taco Dil-licious Crunchy Fries The Daily Crave’s new Taco Dil-licious Crunchy Fries are a delicious, fun, innovative snack that are baked, then fried, achieving optimal crunch, taste and flavor. They are the perfect alternative to potato chips and made with the best, high-quality, non-GMO potatoes. These new Crunchy Fries are a reminder of everyone’s favorite fast food French fry, but without all the added bad stuff, yum! They are ready-to-eat and easy to take on-thego eliminating the hassle of using any electricity to use an oven or air fryer. Use them as a side dish to any entrée, dip or sandwich and enjoy up to 60 pieces per serving. Treat friends and family to this unique, crunchy, flavor-packed snack.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

TouchBistro Loyalty TouchBistro Loyalty is an integrated rewards and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform that enables restaurants to maximize customer lifetime value by creating a seamless guest experience with custom loyalty programs, multiple reward options, and a branded customer web app. The solution offers a range of functionality that helps restaurants engage, reward, and retain customers.

True Residential Undercounter Beverage Dispenser

Whether coffee, beer (or both) is the goal, True Residential’s Undercounter Beverage Dispenser is handcrafted to dispense the perfect draft pour, but the versatile unit can easily be transformed into a coffee dispenser with True’s exclusive Nitro Coffee Kit which is offered as an optional accessory. Depicted in True’s captivating new sky-blue finish, Bluestone, the united is imbued with subtle hints of gray and lilac. Available in 15” single tap and 24” versions alongside any of True Residential’s rapidly growing compilation of richly-hued finishes

Truth Bar

Indulgence and gut health are not two words that normally would be seen in the same sentence – that is until Truth Bar entered the scene. Truth Bar offers delicious plant-based, prebiotic and probiotic gut-healthy snack bars dipped in dark chocolate. In fun flavors like Dark Chocolate Vanilla Cake Batter and Dark Chocolate Raspberry Coconut, all bars remain gluten-free, low in sugar and high in fiber. Their Dark Chocolate Coconut bar tastes just like a candy bar, but a whole lot healthier (think Almond Joy!). They are great to enjoy on-the-go, for a quick breakfast or even for dessert.

Typsy Discover the power of skills with Typsy. Typsy is a hospitality e-learning platform that delivers high-quality skills content, community and tools to help hospitality professionals and organizations stand out and flourish. Typsy is committed to powering ambitious businesses and their workforces to deliver ever-better customer experiences and to help the hospitality industry thrive. Typsy’s growing video library includes more than 1500 hospitality skills lessons led by industry experts from across the globe. Learners have instant access to lessons and courses which include downloadable resources, quizzes, and digital badges. Courses are spoken in English and include closed captions in more than 20 languages including Chinese, French, Korean, and Spanish. Typsy also offers select courses with French audio dubbing.

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Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

Veuve du Vernay Ice Rosé Veuve du Vernay elevates any occasion. Indulge in the latest edition of their best-selling Ice Rosé, a deliciously sweet and vibrant sparkling rosé crafted from premium quality red grapes. Whether you’re picnicking, lounging by the pool, or basking in the sun at the beach, the stylish 250ml aluminum can makes it easy to savor every sip of the crisp and fruity flavors. Let Veuve du Vernay add a touch of sparkle to your moments.

Viking HybridPlus Tri-Ply Nonstick Fry Pans Viking HybridPlus Tri-Ply Nonstick Fry Pans are ideal for searing, sautéing, and browning while still delivering easy cleanup. Viking Hybrid Plus cookware is coated with an advanced nonstick coating that features long lasting, superior release. The innovative design of the cooking surface features a raised diamond tread pattern that sits just above the nonstick coating. The raised stainless-steel pattern protects the nonstick coating from scratching, making this pan ideal for use with metal utensils.

Von Elrod Neighborhood Pilsner Von Elrod’s Neighborhood Pilsner is a collaboration between Von Elrod’s Beer Hall & Kitchen and Jackalope Brewing Co. The Von Elrod’s Neighborhood Pilsner is a traditional German-style Pilsner with a crisp, lightbodied beer prominently featuring German Noble hops complemented by gently kilned Pilsen malt. A portion of the proceeds from every beer sold goes to the Martha O’Bryan Center.

Wenda Ingredients SafePlate® Cultured Onion Wenda Ingredients launches cutting-edge label-friendly ingredients for meat, poultry, side dishes, dressings, and more! Now expanded, the SafePlate® natural antimicrobial line has a new product, Cultured Onion, available as a liquid or powder. SafePlate® Cultured Onion ingredients and blends naturally contain antimicrobial-rich organic acids and peptides capable of inhibiting toxin-producing spores, pathogens, and spoilage bacteria. One Ingredient, Layers of Protection! A truly uncured solution to persistent pinking. Low cost, low flavor contribution, and clean-label.

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LET’S TACO

‘BOUT IT ALWAYS CRUNCHY, NEVER SOGGY! visit us @ www.thedailycrave.com

Editor’s Top Pick: 2023 Products of the Year

YOU NEED THIS Cinnamon Churro Puffs YOU NEED THIS promises to deliver snacks with big flavors and without the junk. YOU NEED THIS’ crunchy and airy Cinnamon Churro Puffs are coated in salty and sweet cinnamon and perfect to munch on while studying or as a midday desk snack. The Cinnamon Churro Puffs are a great alternative to a Taco Bell Cinnamon Twist and are made with healthy ingredients like butternut squash, paprika, cinnamon and nutmeg. The puffs are plant-based, non-GMO Project Verified, gluten-free, corn-free, and ricefree.

Zoup! Zoup! super-premium soups deliver a taste experience that is just as it should be: Complex yet comforting; inspired yet familiar. Immersed in serving soup face-to-face to customers across the country at Zoup! Eatery locations for over two decades – a history unique to the CPG industry – the team learned people’s preferences and became passionate about creating soup that seamlessly paired unparalleled flavor with store-bought convenience. Crafted from high-quality, clean ingredients like fresh herbs, antibiotic-free chicken, and hearty cuts of vegetables (no artificial ingredients or preservatives and no GMO’s), the flavor-forward lineup includes Chicken Potpie, Chicken Noodle, Spicy Chicken ‘Chilada™, Chicken & Riced Cauliflower, Portabella Mushroom Bisque, Black Bean Chili, Tomato Bisque, Garden Vegetable, and Butternut Squash with Brown Butter and Sage.

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By Ryan Slattery

The idea was formulated in Miami and took shape on the opposite coast when Passion Tree’s cofounders loaded up a 1994 Gulfstream RV full of hard seltzers and took to the streets of San Diego to share their product in a “boots on the ground, guerilla marketing” campaign. The response to the fruity spiked seltzers was extremely positive and soon the masterminds behind the brand had a deal in place to sell Passion Tree in Kroger’s Ralphs stores throughout San Diego. The bus tour occurred just about two years ago in 2021 and now Passion Tree’s new mini-seltzers are getting national attention with a blitz marketing

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campaign, lead by their strong social media presence and national distribution in Target stores that are in some of the country’s biggest markets– California, Florida, Texas, New York and Illinois. These key states are sure to help brand identity and propel Passion Tree into the next stratosphere. In a crowded hard seltzer market, what makes Passion Tree unique and stand out is (pardon the pun) their passion for producing a quality betterfor-you beverage that focuses on offering a new drinking experience with their signature mini cans and vastly differs from competitors in a multitude of ways.

Minis Cater to the Mindful Drinker Firstly, Passion Tree is the first-ever mini hard seltzer to hit the market. They’re called minis because they’re sold in 7.5 ounce cans–and done so for good reason. When researching what consumers wanted out of a hard seltzer, Passion Tree’s founders, Andy Kuklock, Jake Ryder and Garrett Olsen, found that drinking trends were changing and people were being more conscious of what they were consuming, and how much of it they were. They realized that there was very limited options for people other than non-alcoholic beverages or lowerABV beverages and nothing in between. “That’s where the passion for minis came in,” says Olsen. “It was filling a legitimate gap in the industry.” Just as Coca-Cola modernized the soda industry in 2009 when it introduced its mini-size beverages, Passion Tree is hoping it will capture a similar market.

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“We found that people were only finishing half a beverage so it just made a ton of sense,” says Kuklock. “Not everyone wants to have a 12-ounce can all the time and let’s be honest, nobody likes it when their favorite beverage gets warm halfway through. With the minis your last sip is as cold as your first.” In another trendsetting move, they also saw that no other alcohol brand in their market had any sort of broader initiative that was easily measurable tied to their brand and wanted to make that a trademark of Passion Tree so they teamed up with with Our Forests and Eden Reforestation Projects on reforestation efforts. For every case sold, one tree is planted, contributing towards the fight against deforestation and helping to restore the world’s ecosystems. So far, Passion Tree has planted 100,000+ mangrove trees in Madagascar.

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For every case sold, one tree is planted, contributing towards the fight against deforestation and helping to restore the world’s ecosystems. So far, Passion Tree has planted 100,000+ mangrove trees in Madagascar.

But while you can shrink the serving size and plant a tree for each case sold, it’s really the taste and quality of what’s inside that small can that really matters and Passion Tree took that to heart as well in crafting an all-natural, fiveingredient, 70-calorie seltzer. Using nanofiltration in the brewing process with their cold brewed fermented sugar cane, Passion Tree has achieved a remarkably clean tasting beverage with no hidden ingredients and a label that consumers can read and actually understand. To no surprise, given the brand’s palm tree logo, consumers will also find uniqueness in Passion Tree’s tropical-inspired real fruit flavors. Current flavors available exclusively in the mini cans are guava, lychee, dragonfruit, boysenberry and coconut.

Kuklock, Ryder and Olsen want Passion Tree to be that go-to beverage for those who embrace a healthy, more active lifestyle. Celebrate with friends without all the guilt or headaches the next day. It’s a sessionable seltzer that provides a new alternative to the standard 12oz can option people have been stuck with for years. “In the end, we’re a beverage brand but we feel that Passion Tree really has the potential to become more of a lifestyle brand after seeing how people have already chosen to buy into this mini movement and especially embracing the philanthropy portion of our brand” says Kuklock. drinkpassiontree.com

December Issue 2023 v Food & Beverage Magazine | Page 146

NOW SHINING AVAILABLE IN MARKET

ORANGE CRÈME RUM COCKTAIL READY-TO-SERVE 36 PROOF

Learn more at @sunshinepunchofficial

Raw. Unfiltered. Natural.

High-Quality Honey with Unbelievable Flavor The origins of Pure Sweet Honey buzz back to beekeeping and vertically integrated honey harvesting. Since the beginning, we’ve appreciated the integral role bees play in our environment and the tireless efforts they put into producing delicious honey. 30+ years later, we carry on these same admirations. Some Honey was born in southwestern Wisconsin where conserving one’s land is the way of life. While Some Honey’s team and products have evolved since our origin, our dedication to our customers and to our local land has not changed. We continue to provide a delicious and wholesome product that will enhance the well-being of both our consumers and our environment.

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Visit Pure Sweet Honey

Private labeling available. www.somehoney.com

514 Commerce Pkwy, Verona, WI 53593

New Product Alert! 7-gram single-serving spoons of honey and individual dispensers now available. Just peel and stir!