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Gluten-Free Products from Western Foods
Bone Suckin’ Sauce from Ford’s Gourmet Foods
Dream Pretzels Introduces New Protein Pressels
Western Foods is located in Woodland, California, in the heart of the California rice growing district, renowned for its high-quality non-GMO medium grain japonica rice. Western Foods is a dedicated gluten-free rice and ancient grain
When the Ford family decided to sell their family’s secret sauce more than 25 years ago, they thought it would be a sentimental addition to the gourmet foods side of their fourth generation family produce business. Little did they know that were creating a phenomenon.
Dream Pretzels, maker of innovative pretzel products, recently launched an innovative snack that is a game changer in the snack category. New Protein Pressels feature plant protein from red lentils, white beans and green peas and
At PB2, we believe in finding the balance in everyday life, feeling confident in your choices and being present each day. We launched our company in 2007 with a mission to help you do just that, through our
BOOTH #N2052
BOOTH #5321
BOOTH #N1834
BOOTH #N2040
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Elevate Your Athletic Performance with Honey
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Bake Great with Great River Organic Milling
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Urban Accents Launches Meatless Mixes
PB2: Embrace Your Balance By Owen W h i t e , Director of Marketing, PB2 Foods Inc.
Summerhill Goat Milk: From Goat to Glass
With such a vast array of food choices available these days, it can be difficult to navigate all the options. Even when it comes to something as seemingly simple as sugar, there are far more different varieties
Great River Organic Milling (GROM) has always been a proud supplier of the highest quality organic grains, stone ground flours and blends to the organic industry. While its focus over past decades has primarily been to service
“We are thrilled to bring our global flavor creativity to our new Meatless Mixes to help our foodloving fans have fun experimenting with satisfying vegetarian meals.” – Tom Knibbs, President and Mixmaster
By Anneke de Jong, co-Owner, Summerhill Goat Dairy
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BOOTH #N937
BOOTH #891
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Once Again Launches New Organic Seed and Nut
NestFresh Meets Consumer Need for Transparency
Sustainable Projects from AKC Commodities/Taj Food
Naturkost USA Representing ONE NATURE Organic
Once Again Nut Butter, spreading integrity for over 40 years, is adding organic sunflower hemp butter and organic blanched almond butter to its sustainable lineup. Made with minimal ingredients and maximum taste appeal, each new
By Sotheary H o m , Marketing M a n a g e r, NestFresh
By Rainer Schindler, B u s i n e s s Development, Naturkost USA
As the food industry continues to evolve – oftentimes as a result of consumer demand – significant trends still remain centered
A K C Commodities, Inc./Taj Food (Pvt) Ltd is not only the largest organic supplier from Pakistan. The Taj Welfare Foundation, founded by its owners and employees, is involved in various social and sustainable
BOOTH #1915
BOOTH #1768
BOOTH #2558
BOOTH #2452
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MARCH 2020
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SPECIAL SHOW ISSUE
Gluten-Free Products from Western Foods
Bone Suckin’ Sauce from Ford’s Gourmet Foods
Dream Pretzels Introduces New Protein Pressels
Western Foods is located in Woodland, California, in the heart of the California rice growing district, renowned for its high-quality non-GMO medium grain japonica rice. Western Foods is a dedicated gluten-free rice and ancient grain
When the Ford family decided to sell their family’s secret sauce more than 25 years ago, they thought it would be a sentimental addition to the gourmet foods side of their fourth generation family produce business. Little did they know that were creating a phenomenon.
Dream Pretzels, maker of innovative pretzel products, recently launched an innovative snack that is a game changer in the snack category. New Protein Pressels feature plant protein from red lentils, white beans and green peas and
At PB2, we believe in finding the balance in everyday life, feeling confident in your choices and being present each day. We launched our company in 2007 with a mission to help you do just that, through our line
BOOTH #N2052
BOOTH #5321
BOOTH #N1834
BOOTH #N2040
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Elevate Your Athletic Performance with Honey
Continued on Page 134
Bake Great with Great River Organic Milling
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Urban Accents Launches Meatless Mixes
PB2: Embrace Your Balance By Owen White, Director of Marketing, PB2 Foods Inc.
Continued on Page 132
Summerhill Goat Milk: From Goat to Glass
By Anneke de Jong, co-Owner, Summerhill Goat Dairy
With such a vast array of food choices available these days, it can be difficult to navigate all the options. Even when it comes to something as seemingly simple as sugar, there are far more different varieties
Great River Organic Milling (GROM) has always been a proud supplier of the highest quality organic grains, stone ground flours and blends to the organic industry. While its focus over past decades has primarily been to service
“We are thrilled to bring our global flavor creativity to our new Meatless Mixes to help our food-loving fans have fun experimenting with satisfying vegetarian meals.” – Tom Knibbs, President and Mixmaster
Summerhill Goat Dairy has been familyowned and operated for over 20 years. After years of hard work, we’re honored that people let us share our goat milk with them.
BOOTH #5178
BOOTH #2634
BOOTH #N937
BOOTH #891
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Once Again Launches New Organic Seed and Nut Butters
NestFresh Meets Consumer Need for Transparency
Sustainable Projects from AKC Commodities/Taj Food
Naturkost USA Representing ONE NATURE Organic
Once Again Nut Butter, spreading integrity for over 40 years, is adding organic sunflower hemp butter and organic blanched almond butter to its sustainable lineup. Made with minimal ingredients and maximum taste appeal, each new product is free of
By Sotheary Hom, Marketing Manager, NestFresh
By Rainer Schindler, Business Development, Naturkost USA
As the food industry continues to evolve – oftentimes as a result of consumer demand – significant trends still remain centered around animal welfare and ethical food production.
AKC Commodities, Inc./Taj Food (Pvt) Ltd is not only the largest organic supplier from Pakistan. The Taj Welfare Foundation, founded by its owners and employees, is involved in various social and sustainable local projects. The Water
Naturkost USA INC. and ONE NATURE Organic would like you to visit booth #2452 in Hall C to see, hear and taste everything chia, quinoa, coconut,
BOOTH #1915
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BOOTH #2558
BOOTH #2452
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Packaging Veteran Offers More Sustainable Solutions
New Products, Packaging Options from The Spice Lab
Buddy Fruits Kicks Off Be a Buddy Program
Tierra Farm Honors Community, Environment
Having supplied wholesale distributors across the country with thousands of packaging products for more than 50 years, one Los Angeles-based maker has shifted its focus to meet increased demand for more sustainable options.
The Spice Lab specializes in creating exclusive, custom blends offering numerous packaging options and low minimums. Whether sold under private label or brands of The Spice Lab, the company’s creative packaging designs offer maximum
Buddy Fruits is celebrating a decade of being a true buddy to families with its delicious and allnatural fruit puree pouches, and a whole lot of love. To celebrate this milestone, the company launched its Be a Buddy program
Tierra Farm, founded in 1999 by Gunther Fishgold, and located in Valaite, 20 miles south of Albany, New York, is a certified-organic manufacturer and distributor of nuts, seeds, dried fruits, coffee, chocolate
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BOOTH #N217
BOOTH #1913
Teekanne Organics: The Taste of Feeling Well
Alternative Sweeteners from Suzanne’s Specialties
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Dairy- and Gluten-Free Options from Jolly Llama
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New Products from Atlantic Natural Foods An interview with Doug Hines, Founder, Atlantic Natural Foods.
Teekanne (meaning “tea pot” in German) has been a family owned business since 1882. It is the market leader within the herbal and fruit infused tea category. Being No. 1 in the world allows the company to continue to make trend forward combinations that are
Suzanne’s Specialties has been supplying alternative sweeteners to the health food and industrial food markets since 1984. Its offerings include brown rice syrup, clarified rice syrup, rice maltodextrin syrup and solids, tapioca syrup, tapioca maltodextrin and solids,
Dairy and gluten free have never tasted more amazing thanks to the tasty secrets of Jolly Llama’s Delicious Enlightenment. Jolly Llama, maker of plant-powered Jolly Llama Sorbet Pops, proudly introduces dairy and gluten-free
GN: Tell our readers about Atlantic Natural Foods and what you’re bringing to Natural Products Expo West this year.
BOOTH #5323
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BOOTH #5398
BOOTH #5050
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ENZO Olive Oil Company Focused on Quality An interview with Vincent Ricchiuti, Director of Operations, ENZO Olive Oil Company.
GN: How did ENZO Olive Oil Company get its start?
VR: Twelve years ago, my father Patrick
BOOTH #5396
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Guide to CBD/ Hemp-Nutrition
An interview with Jason Mitchell, Naturopathic Doctor, Hemp-Nutrition Expert.
GN: What is the difference between cannabis and hemp?
JM: Whenever the word ‘cannabis’ is
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The Whole Earth: “Savor It”
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Milk Chocolate Wildflower Honey Caramels
By Kevin Allen, National Sales and Marketing Manager, Snak King
In the snack food universe, The Whole Earth® brand stands for clean, natural and organic snacks that consumers appreciate.
Money on Honey, a Las Olas Confections and Snacks brand, introduces its new flavor, Milk Chocolate French Sea Salt, to its multi-awardwinning line of one-of-akind clean caramel treats. Money on Honey is a gluten free, non-GMO line of all-natural
BOOTH #1764
BOOTH #N439
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Alpha Offers Sustainable Packaging Solutions
ChildLife Essentials has been the No. 1 best-selling children’s supplement line in the natural products industry for the past seven years. ChildLife is well known for developing specialty formulas which address and support the issues and challenges kids face in
By Marny Bielefeldt, Vice President of Marketing, Alpha Packaging
Shrewd Food: The Smartest Way to Snack
Bella Sun Luci Launches New Plant-Based Jerky
Alpha Packaging, long known as one of the only plastic bottle manufacturers willing to run 100 percent post-consumer resin (PCR)
Shrewd Food’s main mission is to bring significantly healthier foods to the masses without sacrificing taste or texture. For almost two years, Shrewd Food has been changing the way consumers look at healthy snacking by offering low carbohydrate, high protein and low-
Mooney Farms and the Bella Sun Luci brand, which blazed the trail for the California sun dried tomato market over 30 years ago, is introducing an exciting new product to its line-up, Plant-Based Tomato Jerky. This new vegan, plant-based jerky
BOOTH #4249
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Children’s Supplements from ChildLife Essentials
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The Oat Milk Boom Set to Explode with New Elmhurst Intros By Nicholas Budniewski, Senior Copywriter, Elmhurst® 1925
We are Elmhurst, and we make simpler, better plant-based beverages. Like seemingly everyone else under the sun these days, we also make oat milk. But, simpler, better oat milk! Our new single-serve line condenses all the whole-grain nutritional wonder of oat milk into an 11-ounce carton. Besides original, there are kid-pleasing blueberry, chocolate and vanilla varieties. None exceed 6 grams of sugar. Chocolate oat milk is a big topic, so we’ve
put in a 32-ounce carton as well. This is the very definition of “responsible indulgence,” pouring a full serving of whole grain, just 4 grams of sugar and six simple ingredients into every glass. If you’re into coffee, we have two other showpieces set to go. Joining the creative leap that is our hemp creamer, is our new line of oat creamers. Try it unsweetened or with a note of hazelnut, French vanilla or chai spice. Whichever you choose, you’re looking at no more than 1 gram of sugar and 15 calories per serving. Finally, our oat lattes. These aren’t just another on-the-go drink; they’re an experience.
Fiorucci’s 100% Natural Italian Norcineria Fiorucci is the brand of specialty meats that delivers the true taste of Italy. For over 170 years, it has used old-world recipes to produce a full line of authentic Italian charcuterie meats, cheeses and premium snacking products using only hand trimmed cuts of premium pork and the finest ingredients, then slowly aging them to perfection. Since 1850, the Fiorucci family has been creating authentic Italian meats, honoring the tradition of the Italian dinner table.
When introducing its 100% Natural line of products, Fiorucci often refers to its approach to crafting these items as observing “The unrushed ways of the Italian Norcineria.” After more than 170 years, it has learned a lot about the importance of taking the time to do things the right way. Its entire product portfolio is an example of how patience and experience pay huge dividends in quality and flavor. All products in this line do not contain any artificial flavors, colors, ingredients or preservatives; they are gluten,
You have four varieties to choose from: rich and rewarding cacao, flash brew, turmeric-infused golden milk and a matcha latte to get (and keep) you going! Each daily delight carries a heroic nutritional double: 28 grams of whole grain (over half your daily value, if you’re counting) and 550 milligrams omega-3 ALA. Single-serve. Chocolate. Creamers. Lattes. This is all good reason to meet us – Elmhurst 1925 – at the epicenter of oat. You’ll find a latte love and simpler, better plant-based nutrition for all. Visit Elmhurst 1925 at booth #481. For more information, go to www.elmhurst1925.com or email sales@elmhurst1925.com.
lactose and trans fat free, and there is no added MSG, nitrates or nitrites. All products are made from pork that is never administered antibiotics or growth hormones and fed a vitamin-enriched, 100 percent vegetarian diet from birth for a cleaner flavor.
For more information, go to www.fiorucci foods.com, call 602.285.5286 or email cfa.marketing@campofriofg.com. Follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.
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A SPECIAL SHOW ISSUE OF GOURMET NEWS
Publisher Kimberly Oser Senior Associate Publisher Jules Denton-Card Editorial Director Lorrie Baumann Associate Publisher Anthony Socci Associate Editors Jeanie Catron • JoEllen Lowry • Karrie Welborn Art Director Yasmine Brown Graphic Designer Jonathan Schieffer Senior Account Manager Marcos Morhaim Account Managers Arnoldo Alonso • Adrian Chacon • Alisha Dicochea Deborah Yarbrough • Hannah Stefanovich • Joseph Bellon Keli Carpenter • Kim Whiteman Director of Operations Tara Neal Customer Service Manager Susan Stein Customer Service Associate Rae Featherston Show Logistics & Distribution Jay Watson European Sales Enrico Cecchi Naturally Healthy is published by Oser Communications Group ©2020 All rights reserved. Publishing office: 1877 N. Kolb Road, Tucson, AZ 85715 520.721.1300/Fax: 520.721.6300 Subscriber services: Gourmet News P.O. Box 30520 Tucson, AZ 85751 www.gourmetnews.com
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Flax-Based Products from Flax4Life By Kasondra Shippen, General Manager, Flax4Life
Flax4Life is a small family owned and operated bakery located in the Pacific Northwest that is certified gluten-free, dairy-free and nut-free (except coconut). Our goal is to make flax-based products that not only taste good, but are good for you. Healthy ingredients are important, but the taste is, too! Our baked goods are meant to be enjoyed by anyone, allergies or not. If you are looking for a flavorful treat that is high in Omega 3s, healthy protein, fiber and lignans, look no further. Your taste buds will not be disappointed with our delicious line of muffins, brownies, granola, cakes and toaster buns. All the prod-
ucts are all natural, preservative and cholesterol free. In search of something on-the-go, our single-serve muffins and brownies are a perfect solution. The same quality product, but in more convenient packaging. You can choose from our muffin flavors Carrot Raisin, Chocolate Chip and Wild Blueberry, or our brownie flavors Chocolate and Toasted Coconut. These small delicious packages are perfect for lunches, road trips, games or any time you need a little treat. Celebrate any occasion guilt-free with either our rich Chocolate Cake covered in fudge frosting and dark chocolate shavings or our scrumptious Carrot Cake covered in dairy-free cream cheese frosting with toasted coconut. If you are at a birthday party or din-
Rapid Growth for HATCH Organic Salsa Sales Since introducing HATCH Organic Salsas, certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in mid-2018, distribution and sales have been growing quickly in supermarket and upscale grocery stores. HATCH Organic Salsas are advancing the HATCH brand’s reputation for superior quality products and is driving category sales growth for retail customers. HATCH Organic Salsas have superior flavor and taste and are made with organic ingredients, including organic tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, onions and jalapenos.
HATCH Organic Salsas are also gluten free and Kosher OU certified and only contain 100 milligrams of sodium per serving. The trend in growing sales of USDA Certified Organic food items continues as consumers seek superior quality food made with superior quality ingredients. In 2018, organic food sales accounted for over 5.7 percent of total food products sold in the United States. Sales of organic food items reached $47.9 billion in 2018 and were up 5.9 percent versus prior year while the overall U.S. food sales only grew 2.3 percent. (Source: Or-
How HempFusion Promotes Relaxation and Sleep When we experience something – good or bad – our body automatically reacts to help maintain balance through our endocannabinoid system (ECS). But when out of balance, the ECS can affect our ability to relax and fall asleep. Fortunately, HempFusion®’s unique whole-food, Full-Spectrum Hemp Extract serves the ECS with an array of phytocompounds, cannabinoids, terpenes and natural fatty acids that when combined, have a pow-
erful effect in supporting the ECS’s role in maintaining overall health. Then, HempFusion decided to “fuse” complementary, natural ingredients that have been scientifically studied to promote relaxation and support falling asleep.
HempFusion Stress The company fused HempFusion’s Whole Food Hemp Complex with Sensoril®, a patented, organic extract from Ash-
Fall River Wild Rice Shows How Easy and Versatile Wild Rice Can Be An interview with Walt Oilar, General Manager, Fall River Wild Rice.
GN: Tell our readers about your company. What’s your main line of business?
WO: Fall River Wild Rice is a growerowned cooperative located in the rural mountains of Northeastern California. It is an area well suited for growing wild rice. We supply wild rice to the retail and foodservice markets. GN: What is it that separates you from the competition and makes your company unique?
WO: We are a small company from ‘small town America.’ With that comes a great desire to be customer service oriented, which we fulfill wholeheartedly. When you call our company you’re not calling a call center. Nine times out of 10 you’ll be talking to me and I’ll personally handle any situation. I love talking to all callers!
GN: What about products?
WO: Though we’re small, we’re also innovative. In my mind our greatest achievement and contribution to the industry to date is starting the ‘fully cooked’ rice products. Wild rice requires a long cook time –
ner gathering, there won’t be any leftovers of these cakes. You can enjoy our products any time of the day for a healthy treat to keep you going. If it is first thing in the morning with a bowl of our uniquely soft granola or a late-night chocolate brownie snack, you will not feel guilty enjoying our products. Handmade wholesome goodness, nutritious and delicious! We are proud to announce that we are making our product more inclusive by certifying our brand kosher. As of January 2020, OK Kosher certified our facility and all of our products.
Muffin Flavors: Wild Blueberry, Carrot Raisin, Chocolate Chip, Cranberry Orange, Apple Cinnamon and Hawaiian Pineapple.
ganic Trade Association (OTA) Industry Survey (May 2019).) In addition to organic salsas, the Hatch Chile Company has a broad product line that includes premium quality green chile and jalapeno peppers, enchilada sauces, salsas and taco sauce. HATCH branded green enchilada sauces are certified by the Non-GMO Project, and HATCH branded red enchilada sauces are certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The Hatch Chile Company was founded in Albuquerque, New Mexico in 1987 and is waghanda, which has been shown to support relaxation when the body senses stress. Between these two powerful extracts, the human body is receiving incredible support for the interconnected biological systems that help the body manage stress.
HempFusion Sleep Lack of sleep can be very challenging to the body. Helping to support the body with relaxation may lead to better, more restorative sleep. With HempFusion Sleep, the comaround an hour. The solution was Fully Cooked Wild Rice in a retort, flexible package. This not only earned us awards, but more importantly gives us the greater satisfaction of helping consumers have one of the world’s healthiest grains ‘at their fingertips.’ Because it’s more accessible and easier to prepare, more people are able to live a healthier lifestyle by utilizing wild rice in this fully cooked format.
GN: What particular product will you be showcasing?
WO: We’ll be displaying all of our products. What we’re especially excited to show is how easy and versatile wild rice can be.
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Brownie Flavors: Chocolate, Toasted Coconut, Dark Cherry, Cappuccino and new Mint Chocolate.
Granola Flavors: Apple Cinnamon, Chocolate Chip, Pineapple Coconut & Mango, Banana Coconut and Cranberry Orange.
Toaster Bun Flavors: Original, Everything and Cinnamon Raisin.
Cake Flavors: Chocolate and Carrot.
Visit Flax4Life at booth #1077. For more information or to order a sample, go to www.flax4life.net, call 360.715.1944 or email customerservice@flax4life.net. Follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. a brand leader in marketing premium quality Southwestern food to consumers across the United States. The Hatch Chile Company has been an industry pioneer in introducing USDA Organic, Certified Gluten Free (GF), Non-GMO Project Verified and Kosher OU products to the category. HATCH and HATCH Select branded products are available in supermarkets and natural and specialty grocery retailers across the United States.
For more information, visit booth #5267 or go to www.hatchchileco.com.
pany fused its HempFusion Whole Food Hemp Complex with PharmaGABA®, a natural form of the amino acid GABA that has been scientifically studied to support relaxation that may lead to deeper restorative sleep. It’s like “noisecanceling” to calm the mind and reduce the noise pollution in your head when trying to sleep.
For more information, .hempfusion.com.
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We’ll be sampling a variety of products and uses for wild rice.
GN: What do you hope to get out of the show?
WO: We love attending this show – it’s such a great atmosphere! We hope we can reach more people with our products. Wild rice is a grain with tremendous health benefits. We hope we can help more people discover this wholesome, healthy grain and take advantage of our unique products. If we’ve done that, then we’ve been successful!
For more information, visit www.fallriver wildrice.com, call 800.626.4366, email wildrice@shasta.com or stop by booth #N347 (North Hall).
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Cynara Launches First-to-Market Artichoke Chyps Cynara Worldwide Sourcing, Inc. is excited to introduce two new groundbreaking and innovative additions to its family of premium quality artichoke products: Artichoke Chyps and Artichoke Delights. Made from farm-picked, 100 percent artichokes, the first-to-market Artichoke Chyps (pronounced: chips) are a crispy, authentic, culinary delight. Cynara’s Chyps are plantbased, high in fiber, naturally gluten free, non-GMO verified, kosher and have zero sugar. “Our Artichoke Chyps are snacking made simple, at heart,” said Melissa Elms, National Sales Director and Artichoke Aficionado at Cynara Worldwide Sourcing, Inc
(Cynara). “They are minimally processed, nutrient dense and delicious.” These superfood bites have the potential to transform traditional snackers into healthy Artichoke Chyps consumers. They are so tasty you’d never guess you’re getting a hefty serving of leafy greens, vitamins and minerals when you pop open a bag. Add texture and a burst of artichoke flavor to salads or use as you would any other produce-based snack product. Great as a soup topper, sandwich partner or simply a snack that you can enjoy without feeling guilty. Cynara’s other new product, Artichoke Delights, are sustainably packaged premium quality artichokes. They are hand-picked at
PB2 Expands into New Category with “Performance” Protein Powder PB2 Foods is taking over a protein powder aisle near you, thanks to its latest breakthrough product line, PB2 Performance. Designed primarily for use in smoothies and shakes, PB2’s new plant-based protein powders boast a full 20 grams of complete, plant-based protein per 45-gram serving. PB2 Performance Plant Powder will come in two varieties: PB2 Performance Peanut Protein with Dutch Cocoa and PB2 Performance Almond Protein with Madagascar Vanilla. Both products sport a clean label and contain just six ingredients each, including brown rice protein, inulin (a prebiotic fiber providing both functional and nutritional benefits), monk fruit extract (a natural, sugar-free
sweetener) and salt. The peanut version features roasted peanuts and cocoa, while the almond variety contains almonds and natural Madagascar Vanilla flavor. Both products contain zero added sugar and are certified vegan, certified gluten-free, certified kosher and certified by the Non-GMO Project. “PB2 Performance is pure plant power,” says Craig Entwistle, the Chief Executive Officer of PB2 Foods. “Unlike the majority of other plant-based proteins, our combinations are made from real peanuts and almonds with no artificial flavoring. This gives us a huge taste advantage in the category, since peanuts and almonds are already widely known to be delicious, setting PB2
Fuel with Honey Stinger’s Fruit Smoothie Chews Honey Stinger makes convenient, nutritious and great-tasting energy foods using honey. The company is a firm believer that you are what you eat, which is why it is passionate about using wholesome, organic, non-GMO ingredients whenever possible. Why does Honey Stinger care so much about sourcing its ingredients? It wants people to enjoy their favorite foods produced in a way that is not only better for you, but also better for farmers, animals, communities and the environment. Honey Stinger stands firmly behind the
idea that the less you mess with Mother Nature, the better. Honey is one of its key ingredients not only because it’s delicious, but also because it’s naturally rich in carbohydrates and antioxidants. You push your body to the limits, so why not reward it with a sweet treat that works? Honey helps the body perform better by providing sustained energy into the system without the spikes or crashes that come from other simple sugars. This makes Honey Stinger’s honey-formulated energy chews a great solution for
Divine Chocolate Unveils Crispy Thins Divine Chocolate, the only Fairtrade chocolate company in the world co-owned by cocoa farmers, has unveiled its new Crispy Thins, a surprisingly light, irresistibly crispy and truly snackable treat. Crispy Thins are made with an exquisite blend of rich, silky Fairtrade chocolate and air-popped rice which is then expertly crafted into a thin, wafer-like chip. At less than 20 calories per Thin, the Crispy Thins offer a lighter snacking alternative to any other offering in the chocolate aisle with their unique shape and texture. The line is made with Divine’s best selling fla-
vors: Dark Chocolate, Dark Chocolate with Mint, Milk Chocolate, and Milk Chocolate with Caramel and Sea Salt. Crispy Thins are made with all natural ingredients and pure cocoa butter with all flavors certified Fairtrade and dark chocolate versions suitable for vegans. “We are elated about this new addition to our product mix,” said Liz Miller, Senior Marketing Manager at Divine Chocolate. “The Crispy Thins have the decadence and quality consistent with all Divine products, but what makes this product unique is the lightness and texture. Each Thin packs a
their peak, and ready to eat in a variety of sizes and flavor options (in brine, marinated or grilled). The trays are BPAfree and safe to freeze or microwave. The artichokes are tender to the bite and don’t contain any artificial ingredients. “It is our mission to bring new products to the global market with certified organic and conventional artichoke options,” said Elms. The snack and ready-to-eat food category is highlighting more and more healthy options that retain flavor and are ready to take anywhere. Food shoppers also want to know where their food comes from, how it’s made and what it’s doing to their environment. Cynara has continuously stayed at the forefront Performance apart from all other plant-based proteins from the start.” The pioneer in powdered nut butter, PB2 came up with the idea for PB2 Performance after company researchers noticed that many health-conscious consumers were adding PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter or PB2 Powdered Almond Butter to their protein shakes and smoothies, for extra flavor and protein. “You shouldn’t settle for less than great taste in the foods that fuel you,” stated Entwistle. “We’re already getting great feedback from customers and shoppers loyal to plant-based proteins about PB2 Performance. And that’s to be expected, since the innovation idea originated from the fans of our other powdered nut butter products.”
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of healthy food trends and proudly uses renewable and recyclable material to package its star product: the artichoke. “We will continue to accommodate the diverse needs of our customers and the artichoke-loving community,” said Nina Kalandadze, General Manager at Cynara. Cynara Worldwide Sourcing, Inc. is exclusively focused on artichokes. The heart of its corporate philosophy is a commitment to being great global citizens with an uncompromising focus on the high-quality, freshest, nonGMO ingredients, all sourced from sustainable farming communities passionate about best practices and human-planet leadership.
Visit Cynara at booth #5382. For more information, go to www.cynara.net.
PB2 Performance Peanut Protein with Dutch Cocoa comes in a 32-ounce jar and contains 20 grams of complete plant-based protein plus 8 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It also has 190 calories and 5 grams of fat per serving. PB2 Performance Almond Protein with Madagascar Vanilla is available in a 16-ounce jar and contains 20 grams of complete plant-based protein and 7 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It has 180 calories and 4.5 grams of fat per serving. Both flavor varieties will retail in the $20 to $25 range.
Visit PB2 at booth #N2040. For more information, go to www.pb2foods.com, call 229.387.7238 or email customerservice @pb2foods.com.
those constantly on the go. Smaller and softer than other chews, Honey Stinger energy chews are formulated specifically for health-conscious individuals. They’re bite-size, don’t stick to your teeth, and are made from multiple carbohydrate sources – organic honey, tapioca syrup and natural fruit flavors – for optimal absorption into the system. Honey Stinger’s most popular flavor is Fruit Smoothie blend, which includes three different fruit flavors in every package. Expect a variety of delicious cherry, refresh-
ing orange and bursts of berry as you fuel up for your next adventure. Each packet also contains 70 percent recommended daily value of Vitamin C, an antioxidant important for combatting inflammation and damage from high activity. No matter how you move your body, you need convenient nutrition that tastes great and works, every single time. Turn to Honey Stinger and give your body the fuel it needs.
tasty experience that engages the senses in a new way.” Divine Chocolate is driven by a social mission: to bring people together using the amazing power of chocolate to delight and engage, creating dignified trading relations that empower both producers and consumers. All Divine products carry the Fairtrade Mark. Divine Chocolate is also a Certified B Corporation. B Corps meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency and legal accountability, and
aspire to use the power of markets to solve social and environmental problems. Inspire the timeless enjoyment of premium quality chocolate with a crunch with Crispy Thins. Crispy Thins are perfect for casual gifting, enjoying on your own or sharing with friends. The suggested retail price for the 2.8-ounce package of Crispy Thins is $3.50.
Visit Honey Stinger at booth #5178. For more information, email sales@honeystinger.com or go to www.honeystinger.com.
Visit Divine Chocolate at booth #5142. For more information, email sales@divine chocolateusa.com.
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New Products from Suzie’s Good Groceries Company, under its popular Suzie’s brand, continues to launch categorydisrupting great tasting healthy products with “better for you” ingredients. If you share the company’s 2020 vision for higher profits through great tasting innovation, then look no further. Want to know what retail and foodservice have in common? Both can profit with Suzie’s new innovative offerings. The company is introducing six Suzie’s Meal Fixin’ kits. You provide the bowl, wrap or taco; Suzie’s provides everything else you need for Chinese Mu Shu, Korean Barbecue, Indian Kati Roll, Spicy Habanero, Smokey Chipotle or Guerrero Herb & Lime. Each kit contains all the Fixin’s you need, such as jackfruit, seasoning packets, Mashu sauce, cheese paneer, vegetable blend, chutney, barbecue sauce, refried rice and beans, salsa con
queso, etc. Merchandise inline by the burrito and taco wraps, on shelved ends or tie in over meat cases for a tasty new profit center. Perfect for college programs. Looking for innovation? The company is launching Suzie’s new dessert by the slice Fruit Pizzas. Available in three fruit “pizza” combinations: Pineapple Banana, Mixed Berry or Chocolate & Banana. These delicious fruit combinations are on a light wood fired crust that you bake at home in 15 minutes. Can be merchandised with frozen pizzas, frozen fruits or frozen dessert sections. Also available through Suzie’s Food Service Program. Also debuting is Suzie’s high protein, organic, gluten free couscous. Ready in five minutes, the company’s delicious take on couscous will energize your side dishes.
Bamboo, the Wonder “Wood” The toothbrush that has distinguished WooBamboo from its competitors for being made of wood ... isn’t. You read that correctly. WooBamboo brushes aren’t made of wood, because bamboo is not wood. Bamboo is technically a member of the grass family, with nearly 1,500 species across five continents. Due to its composition, bamboo is not only more flexible than the standard hardwoods, but it is less porous and denser, making it far less likely to house bacteria, and up to 20 times stronger than maple. This makes it an ideal substitute for flooring, counter-
tops, furniture, kitchen accessories and so much more. Like a sustainable toothbrush. Unlike maple trees which take over 30 years to fully mature, bamboo fully matures in only three to six years. Upon harvesting, bamboo regrows from the same root system, some species up to three feet a day, making it an ultra-sustainable and renewable resource. Every WooBamboo toothbrush comes from 100 percent sustainable FSC Certified forests and harvesting efforts. Now, not only can WooBamboo consumers feel good about their toothbrush being 95 percent less plastic,
Coombs Family Farms Introduces Maple Stream Coombs Family Farms, a seventh generation producer and packer of pure and organic maple, presents Coombs Family Farms Maple Stream™, the first spray-able maple syrup. At the push of a button, Coombs Family Farms Maple Stream dispenses the right amount of Organic Grade A amber color and rich taste maple syrup. Coombs Family Farms Maple Stream is great for families and is convenient, eco-friendly and fun. “Kids love maple, and there’s something inherently wholesome about a New England tradition and real sweetener,” says Arnold Coombs, seventh generation sugarmaker. “Parents are wanting convenience, but they also want unrefined sugars and none of the fake stuff.”
Coombs Family Farms Maple Stream comes in a recyclable can that streams out mess-free, portion-controlled, organic maple syrup. The syrup contains no flammable propellants. Pure maple syrup is made by concentrating the slightly sweet sap of the Acer Saccharum or “sugar” maple tree through a process of heating and evaporation. The sap is collected by tapping the trees with small, tree-friendly spouts. The sap is then gathered and boiled in an evaporator. When the finished syrup is drawn off the pan, it is filtered, and packaged. Pure maple is naturally sweet, with nothing added. In recent years, several health benefits have been associated with consuming maple, including controlling blood sugar, better
CII: Your Premier Inclusion Supplier The purpose of CII is to research, develop and market unique, new food ingredients. CII holds multiple worldwide product and process patents. The company’s goal is to be the premier provider of specialized food inclusion products, delivering the best service and the best products at reasonable prices. CII will work with you to research, develop and market “value added” products to fit your specific needs. CII is an employee owned ingredient man-
ufacturer based in Leavenworth, Kansas. The company prides itself on being your premier inclusion supplier. At the Natural Product Expo, CII will be featuring its pea-based texturized protein in a walking taco format. Plant-based proteins are a key component of the future, and CII will be your partner in future product placements. CII specializes in colored and flavored particulates manufactured utilizing its patented cold extrusion process. The biggest
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Available in Chickpea with 10 grams of protein per serving, Pea with 13 grams and Red Lentil with a whopping 15 grams of protein per serving. No longer just a side dish, here’s a meatless meal that won’t let you lose any nutritional value. Suzie’s Couscous comes in a 14 ounce (400g) offering, a value over other options on the shelf. Foodservice programs also available. Help your consumers get their day going with Ginergy Ginger Shots from Suzie’s. Available in three flavor profiles – Ginger, Beet and Carrot, and in a value sized 17 fluid ounce bottle. Each bottle contains two pounds of compressed ginger and packs a jolt of natural energy. What’s new and next from Suzie’s is the launch of Lentil Crisps and Sprouted Lentil
Crisps. You love its square Corn, Spelt or Rice Thin Cakes, you love its round Puffed Spelt & Kamut Round Cakes; now add its Thin Round Lentil Crisps. In trial runs, customers said they loved them; you’ll love the sales they add to your stores. Speaking of added sales, Suzie’s Organic Round Popcorn cakes will complement your “better for you” snack sets. Each bag contains 5.4 ounces of goodness with unique flavor profiles. Suzie’s – Innovation you can taste, innovation for your health! Innovation that drives sales!
but they can know that every possible effort is being made to keep the manufacturing of their favorite oral care products responsible and eco-awesome™. Beyond it being used as an ecofriendly hardwood alternative, people are getting insanely inventive with bamboo’s uses. EcoLife Innovations, the parent company of WooBamboo, may have helped pioneer the bamboo toothbrush, but it’s in excellent company with other innovators interested in using this “wonder wood.” This plant seems to be appearing in more
and more industries globally every single year. Although WooBamboo is taking every step possible to maintain its sustainable status while producing a high quality, in-demand product, the ecosystem is a carefully balanced structure which needs to be respected. We, as the inhabitants of earth and business owners, have found something truly special in bamboo, and now it’s our responsibility to keep harnessing it sensibly and effectively.
brain and liver health, reducing chronic inflammation and producing a healthy gut biome. More than 67 compounds with antioxidant activity and potential health benefits have been identified, which is double the amount previously reported. Coombs Family Farms maple goes with more than breakfast. It provides a complex sweetness that pairs well with vegetables, barbecue, dressings and sauces, cocktails and dessert, year-round. It’s easy to substitute Coombs Family Farms pure and organic maple for sugar or other sweeteners in recipes; just decrease liquids and temperature accordingly. For more than seven generations, Coombs Family Farms has been making 100 percent pure and organic maple in New England. Coombs Family Farms sources additional
maple from over 3,000 small family farms in the U.S. that share its commitment to quality, environmental stewardship and sustainable forestry management. By purchasing their syrup and bringing it to market, Coombs Family Farms supports small farmers and builds local, rural economies. Like all Coombs Family Farms organic maple products, Maple Stream is certified organic. In addition to being free of toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers and GMOs, Coombs Family Farms organic maple syrup is produced with sustainable forestry practices.
enemy of color and flavor is heat, and the utilization of cold extrusion helps the company provide consistent product for its customers. Robert Hatch founded CII back in 1990, and worked for over nine years to secure numerous patents to aid CII in becoming “Your Premier Inclusion Supplier.” The company commercialized its Flav-RBites line in 1999 and is proud to say it now has six manufacturing lines in two facilities
For more information, visit booth #1029, go to www.goodgroceries.com, email info@goodgroceries.com, call 718.768.0821 or follow the company on social media.
Visit WooBamboo at booth #3203.
For more information, visit booth #1726, go to www.coombsfamilyfarms.com or find the company on Instagram @coombsmaple and Facebook at www.facebook.com/GetRealMaple. based in Leavenworth, Kansas. CII produces Flav-R-Bites, Flav-R-Swirl, Accent Bits and its featured products Nutri-Bites (including its plant based TVP products) for the Natural Products Expo 2020. Customizing ingredient solutions is CII’s specialty and the company invites you to stop by to discuss your future goals. Visit CII at booth #131 in the arena.
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New Oregon Orchard Hazelnut Seasoned Snacks Hazelnut Growers of Oregon (HGO) has recently launched its product line of new Oregon Orchard® seasoned snack products. This line of 8-ounce re-sealable pouched snacks is now available at the Oregon Hazelnut Marketplace and all Wilco Farm Stores in Oregon and Washington. Oregon Orchard’s seasoned hazelnuts are currently selling online at www.oregonorchard.com for $8.99. The five seasoned flavors are: Himalayan Salt, Southwest Chili Pepper, Sweet & Spicy Barbecue, Rosemary and Cinnamon Sugar. Hazelnuts are a good source of vitamins B6 and E and are keto-friendly. All Oregon Orchard snacks are produced with HGO members’ hazelnuts, which are steam pasteurized in small batches at the SQF (Safe Quality
Food) Level 3 Certified processing facility in Donald, Oregon. Greg Thorsgard, Chief Operating Officer of Hazelnut Growers of Oregon, said the new snack options fulfill a growing demand for locally produced, nutritious, natural and flavorful snacks. “We’re excited to release the first new product line under our new Oregon Orchard logo,” Thorsgard said. “These products fill a niche in the continually growing and expanding desire for savory, spicy, ethnic and floral flavors by the younger generation of consumers.” According to Specialty Food Association’s 2018 State of the Industry report, “Specialty foods’ characteristics – quality ingredients and production, interesting flavors – are re-
Salsa God Launches Grab & Go Chips & Salsa Combo Pack Believe it! The wait is finally over. Chips and salsa, together in one package. Salsa God’s mission is to showcase the delicious flavors of authentic Mexican salsas. The tortilla chip stands alone as the best way to enjoy salsa on the go, so the company decided to invent the single-serve, Grab & Go Chips & Salsa Combo Pack by combining a 4-ounce cup of smoky, fire-roasted medium heat salsa with a 3-ounce bag of crunchy, white corn tortilla chips in one package. Chips and salsa is the official state snack of Texas, so leave it to a company with proud
Texas roots to invent the Grab & Go Chips & Salsa Combo Pack. Salsa God is based out of Fort Worth, Texas, so you know that Salsa God’s Combo Pack is authentic and delicious. Now, customers can satisfy their chips and salsa cravings without having to buy a large jar of salsa and a big bag of chips. The Combo Pack is perfect as a large snack or even as a meal-replacement snack. Salsa God wanted to create a Texassized snack that will satisfy chips and salsa cravings, and it also wanted to have the
Essential Eyes from RidgeCrest Herbals By Nichole Carver, Marketing Director, RidgeCrest Herbals
When we are young, our eyes generally serve us very well. As we grow older, our eyes can, metaphorically, stab us in the back. (I specify metaphorically because this is physically quite impossible – the shape of the human eye prohibits achieving an effective stabbing technique.) With age, the eyes can become subject to a host of normal, age-related conditions which may cause deterioration in our vision. In our modern society, eye health is strongly affected by how much technology we consume. These days, some of the most signifi-
cant threats to vision include consistent exposure to UV and blue light from screens, followed closely by zombie aesthetics and cat memes. Other factors that may affect eye health include poor nutrition, eye drops that could decrease blood flow to the capillaries in the eyes, certain chemicals (such as chlorine in a pool), and poor lighting while reading. While UV light from the sun reaches only the front parts of the eye, blue light reaches the more complex and delicate parts of the eye. Blue light comes from many sources in modern society. It is emitted from energy-efficient light bulbs and various electronic devices most of us use daily, such as TVs,
Warrell Creations: Your Partner of Choice Looking for a partner to bring your snacks to market? Warrell Creations ideates within the following manufacturing processes: nut clusters, chocolate enrobing and panning, fire roasting and brittles. Its R&D team is ready to assist you in bringing new life to your brand. Warrell Creations can serve as an extension of your organization’s product development team. Coupled with its rapid prototyping methodology, skilled staff and dedicated project managers, Warrell Cre-
ations delivers on-trend, quality products that taste great. Outcomes are often indulgent treats with a twist of functional capabilities, such as truffles coated with cocoa nibs, clustered tree nuts with dried fruits and ancient grains, protein isolate centers enrobed in protein-enhanced, chocolaty coating rolled in almond pieces, and brittles made with granola. Its experienced R&D team is very clever at finding ways to enhance your brand and develop new products.
quirements rather than luxuries with consumers, younger ones particularly. Based on Mintel’s research, … the iGeneration (ages 18 to 23) embrace specialty foods’ attributes somewhat more strongly than generations before them.”
About Hazelnut Growers of Oregon Founded in 1984, Hazelnut Growers of Oregon, a business unit of farmer-owned cooperative Wilco, has more than 180 growers who collectively own more than 20,000 acres of prime hazelnut orchards. Oregon’s Willamette Valley has the ideal climate for growing the world’s highest quality hazelnuts. It is in this special corner of the world where temperate ocean, mountain and river climates meet with rich volcanic soils to cre-
perfect ratio of the quantity of chips to the quantity of salsa. The 4-ounce cup of medium heat salsa is the perfect amount for a 3-ounce bag of crunchy tortilla chips. This is the perfect snack to add to your kids’ lunchbox or to take along on road trips, hiking trips or to the office for a midday snack. Salsa God’s Grab & Go Chips & Salsa Combo Pack will have your customers coming back for more. This product will work perfectly in conventional/specialty grocery stores, a grab & go section, convenience stores, point-of-sale displays, hotels, movie computers, tablets and cell phones. As our lives revolve more and more around technology (she says as she squints at her computer screen and wonders why LASIK at 20 is no longer serving her at 37) it is increasingly crucial that we take active steps to protect our eyes from the potential effects of blue light. One way to do this is by using RidgeCrest Herbals’ Essential Eyes™. This award-winning Essential Eyes formula takes a nutritive approach to supporting eye health, keeping in mind the stress placed on our eyes through the overuse of electronics while strengthening supporting systems. Winner of the Nexty New Hope New projects are brought to life through a structured Stage Gate Evaluation Process. These ideations are initiated from market-research white spaces, as well as product profiles that form the foundation of a new idea. In both situations, ideations enter the Stage Gate Funnel to ensure that new products are commercialized as efficiently as possible. This robust process allows Warrell to deliver gold standard quality and innovation at an exceptional speedto-market. With 55 years of experience, Warrell Cre-
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ate prime hazelnutgrowing country. In 2016, Hazelnut Growers of Oregon merged with Wilco and by 2018 completed its 120,000 square-foot state-ofthe-art hazelnut process facility in Donald, Oregon. HGO processes both in-shell and kernels and serves food service supply companies, confectionaries, snack food makers and bakers around the globe. The new processing plant also has 30,000 square feet of storage space. In 2018, HGO processed more than 15,000 U.S. tons and anticipates about the same volume this bi-annual year. The Oregon hazelnut industry is expected to double in the next five years.
For more information, www.wilco.coop/hazelnuts.
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to
theaters, sporting events, airlines and more. New flavors of the Combo Pack will be launching shortly. Watch for Salsa God’s Chips & Sriracha Salsa Combo Pack and Salsa God’s Chips & Hot Salsa Combo Pack. Salsa God salsas are proudly Made in America. Visit booth #N434 and mention code “Believe It!” to get 20 percent off of your order placed during the show.
Visit Salsa God at booth #N434. For more information, call 1.844.SALSAGOD, email info@salsagod.com or go to www .salsagod.com. award for the “Best Condition-Specific Product” at Expo East 2017, this innovative product contains Lutemax 2020, a patented, awardwinning eye-support ingredient sourced from marigolds, which contains lutein, zeaxanthin and mesozeaxanthins in a 5:1 ratio. Designed to increase circulation to the eye and provide it with crucial nutrients to support regeneration and eye health, Essential Eyes helps the body put on internal “sunglasses” to combat the macula’s constant exposure to blue light from technology.
Visit RidgeCrest Herbals at booth #4237. For more information, go to www.rcherbals.com.
ations has forged a go-tomarket strategy that has labeled it as Your Partner of Choice® for private label and contract manufacturing solutions. A competitively advantaged Quality Management System, a breadth of manufacturing capabilities, a demonstrated willingness to invest and a team of dedicated project managers is capped with Warrell Creations cornerstone strength: We Innovate for You®. For more information, go to www.warrell corp.com or email sales@warrellcorp.com.
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Setton Farms Grows Industry with Innovative Pistachio Line Setton Farms has been producing America’s Best Tasting Pistachios for over 40 years. The company’s dedicated team takes a hands-on approach, attending to each detail of growing, harvesting, processing, manufacturing, packaging and marketing California pistachios all over the world. Setton Farms pistachios are simply in a class by themselves because of their great taste and superior quality. The Setton family’s values are woven into everything the company does, striving to innovate and exceed industry standards. With a strong commitment to regenerative agriculture, it has been able to employ sustainable practices throughout the entire process. Rain and processing water is captured in reservoirs and recycled back onto
orchards. Green waste is converted into topquality compost, enhancing the soil by increasing fertility and bio-activity. Pistachio shells are donated to the community for paving dirt roads, reducing air pollution. Solar energy naturally powers operations at both the processing and satellite facilities. These and other efforts create a sustainability loop, allowing all previously unusable product from the process to be converted back into a valuable input. Setton Farms recently debuted a new line of Seasoned Pistachio Kernels. The company has done the work for pistachio lovers everywhere by removing the shell, dry roasting (no oil), and seasoning pistachios through an exclusive process to maintain a superior fresh-from-the-orchard taste. Five varieties
Rogue River Blue Named World’s Best Cheese Rogue Creamery’s Rogue River Blue Cheese beat 3,800 of the world’s most distinguished cheeses, according to a panel of 260 expert judges from around the globe, to be named World’s Best Cheese at the 2019 World Cheese Awards in Bergamo, Italy. This is the first time an American-made cheese has received this top honor. Rogue River Blue Cheese is an organic, cave-aged blue cheese that is wrapped in Syrah grape leaves that are soaked in pear spirits. The cheese was designed by Rogue Creamery, a small artisan cheesemaker in Southern Oregon that has been in operation since 1933. “This is truly the greatest distinction a cheese can receive. What an extraordinary validation of our commitment to quality, the
place that inspires our cheese – Southern Oregon’s Rogue Valley – and the excellence of the growing American artisan cheese industry,” said Rogue Creamery President and self-professed “Mr. Blue,” David Gremmels. “I am humbled and filled with gratitude.” Every aspect of Rogue River Blue reflects its Oregon roots. It is made exclusively with milk from Rogue Creamery’s Certified Organic Dairy Farm in Grants Pass, Oregon, where cows graze on pastures bordering the Rogue River and enjoy a diet of native plants and grasses. A seasonal product, Rogue River Blue is made in limited quantities each year beginning on the Autumnal Equinox, when cooler temperatures bring renewed growth to the pastures and the cow’s milk becomes
Teapigs Cold Brew Introducing teapigs cold brew, a dead simple, all-natural way to pep up your water this summer! Three super light and refreshing flavors that’ll make glugging your way through your two liters a day a breeze. Available in lychee & rose, cucumber & apple and peach & mango; simply pop one in your water bottle before you head out the door and ... well, that’s it! No waiting for the kettle to boil, no added sugar, no syrups. You bring
the water, teapigs will bring the flavor.
lychee & rose Teapigs has taken on board your many, many requests for a rose tea, but as tea taster Louise was in a generous mood (and potentially midway through a lychee martini), teapigs gives you rose and lychee. A gorgeously fruity yet floral combo to see you through all those long summer nights, bank
Tropical Açaí Brings Fair Trade Prices to the Industry Located in Pompano Beach, Florida, Tropical Açaí, LLC is a premier, organic, açaí berry wholesale and foodservice fruit distributor. The company supplies top-quality, frozen organic açaí berry puree and other premium organic açaí berry products. Founded in 2015, its reputation as an honest, dependable distributor and importer of the highest quality organic açaí berry products is known throughout the USA. When chefs, end users and resellers use Tropical Açaí, they know they have received the highest quality and greatest taste avail-
able. The finest restaurants, smoothie bars and other food services are on Tropical Açaí’s list of highly satisfied clients – and the list continues to grow. Because the company owns the farm on which the berries grow, it is able to offer the best “fair trade” price for its customers. Tropical Açaí uses a total vertical integration process in its production protocol. Because it owns the farm and produces the pulp in its own plant, the company is able to control all phases of production. The company is able to oversee the product from seed to
are currently available: Salt & Pepper, Garlic Onion, Chipotle BBQ, Chili Limón and Jalapeño. The Garlic Onion Seasoned Kernels recently won 1st Place in the Buyers Choice Award at the California Food Expo. Chosen from hundreds of entries, it was given the top honor by the expo’s Retail Advisory Council, which encompasses a select group of retail buyers from Whole Foods Markets, Walmart, Albertsons/Safeway, Bristol Farms and more. Additionally, this variety won the New Product Competition award at Kosherfest, the world’s largest and most attended koshercertified products trade show. The entire line of Setton Farms Seasoned Pistachio Kernels contains no artificial ingredients, are certified gluten free, certified by the Non-GMO Project, vegan and kosher. richer and higher in butterfat, which Gremmels considers the best milk for expressing the unique attributes of the region. First created in 2002, Rogue River Blue wowed the cheese world by winning Best Blue Cheese and Reserve Champion at the World Cheese Awards competition in 2003 – cementing it as one of the United States’ most celebrated cheeses in a growing artisan and farmstead cheese market. With this latest win, Rogue River Blue becomes the No. 1 cheese around the globe. “As a result of that 2003 award, we pursued the first American raw milk cheese Health Certificate for export to fine cheese shops and restaurants in Europe, the UK, Australia, and beyond,” continued Gremmels. “To have Rogue River Blue recognized again, 16 years later, and crowned World holiday picnics and makeshift barbecues in the park.
cucumber & apple Cucumber water is the absolute dream when it comes to cooling down in summer, but for the days when you don’t feel like carrying a cucumber around in your bag, teapigs has got you covered with its invigorating cucumber & apple cold brew infusion. extraction and all the way through production and packaging. Additionally, because the company owns the berry farm, it is able to provide jobs for the local community in Para, Brazil. The vertical integration process also allows the company to offer its açaí at a better price, thus providing clients with the opportunity to achieve their own best profit margin. It is a win-win for both sides of the purchase. Tropical Açaí seeks frozen distributors and intends to increase its retail and foodservice sales customers. The company is launching a shelf-stable, organic, non-GMO verified açaí pulp to food service business. Additionally, the entire frozen line is also available to
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Retailers can display the 3-ounce resealable bags in a preloaded floor shipper with minimal foot space or individual varieties within a tear-away display case on shelf. As a leader in the pistachio industry, the Setton Farms brand has expanded the pistachio value-add category single handedly with an extensive line of premium plantbased snacks that appeal to a wide audience. Unique SKUs like Pistachio Chewy Bites, Dark Chocolate Pistachios and Premium Pistachio Blends help retailers reach more consumers that are looking for innovative snacks.
For more information, visit Setton Farms at booth #5568 in Hall E or contact Joseph Setton, Vice President of Domestic Sales at 631.543.8090. Champion – is a tremendous honor. Rogue River Blue’s recognition reinforces the quality of our cheesemaking tradition in America.” Hosted by the Great Taste Awards, the 32nd annual World Cheese Awards gathered more than 3,800 cheeses from 42 countries on six continents. Each product was ranked by the panel of expert jurors, and ultimately 16 Super Gold winners were selected – from among which a World Champion cheese was chosen. Receiving 100 points at this year’s judging, Rogue River Blue tied for top honors with an Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano. A tiebreaking vote crowned Rogue River Blue as the 2019/2020 champion. Visit Rogue Creamery at booth #2080.
It’ll almost make your 8 a.m. commute feel like you’re spending the day in a dreamy spa. Granted, you might need a lot of imagination for that one.
peach & mango Naturally sweet and peachy perfect, this refreshing pairing of peach and mango will make getting your two liters a day a breeze! Visit teapigs at booth #5160.
retailers such as Whole Foods, Costco, Trader Joe’s, fresh food markets, foodservice industry businesses such as smoothie bars, and distributors such as Sysco, US Foods and Restaurant Depot. For fresh, 100 percent natural, fully certified, organic, non-GMO açaí, discover Tropical Açaí and its delicious, cost-effective products. Visit Tropical Açaí at booth #2035. For more information, go to www.tropicalacai.com, email sales@tropicalacai.com or call 855.550.2224.
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ZEGO Provides Transparency for Consumers Eighty percent of Americans are worried that hidden toxic residue from pesticides, chemicals and heavy metals in food are harming their long-term health, and they are willing to spend more for food that is clean and responsibly grown. And yet, though many companies are calling out their “free from” features, none are answering this concern over toxins in a comprehensive way. Organic certifications hold value but require little testing and don’t cover heavy metals and other toxic chemicals. The under-
lying problem is consumers don’t have a “right to know” if potentially dangerous residue is in their food. Companies aren’t required to test their products, let alone report their results. This leaves consumers nowhere to go if they want a pure diet, and leaves companies with no reason to rid their products of these toxins. ZEGO is changing that. ZEGO makes clean, plant-based packaged snack and breakfast foods like oatmeal, trail mix, cereal, nutrition bars and protein powder de-
Trace Minerals Magnesium Gummies Watermelon Flavor Wins Award Trace Minerals Research (TMR), America’s No. 1 selling trace mineral and liquid magnesium brand according to SPINS® and the leading provider of trace mineral based supplements for over 40 years, is proud to announce that its Magnesium Gummies in the watermelon flavor has been awarded a Better Nutrition Best of Supplements Award for 2019. Better Nutrition is a leading in store and digital magazine for health-conscious consumers. “It is such an incredible privilege to have our Magnesium Gummies Watermelon Flavor honored as one of the Better Nutrition Best of Supplements Award for 2019,” said Matt Kilts, Managing Partner of TMR. “This is indeed a proud accomplishment for our company to be recognized by such a renowned and prominent voice in the natural health industry.” The Better Nutrition Best of Supplements Award recognizes exceptional vitamins, minerals, herbs and other supplements. Winners are selected during an extensive
process by Better Nutrition. “We start with nominations from manufacturers,” says Nicole Brechka, Editor in Chief of Better Nutrition magazine. “We then divide up products among the staff, try what we can, and start narrowing things down based on formulation, quality of ingredients, sustainability, taste, delivery systems, etc. I also do a lot of research online and have some SPINS information that I consider. I’ve also talked to managers at some local health food stores to get their thoughts on products.” Trace Minerals’ Magnesium Gummies are a delicious way to provide your body with magnesium, one of the most important minerals in the body. Research has shown that up to 80 percent of Americans are deficient in magnesium, which is the fourth most abundant mineral in the body and is a cofactor in over 300 biochemical reactions in the body, including energy, heart health and mood. They are gluten free, certified vegan and CGMP certified. The gummies can be purchased from preferred retailers which can
Custom Decorative Tins from TinScape TinScape has been producing custom decorative tins for the past 20 years. The company was founded by Thomas Doyle, who previously ran sales for a tin manufacturer in the United States. Thomas left his job to chase the dream of producing highly enhanced tin structures. Today, TinScape produces out of four facilities in China and ships direct to client
warehouses. The company manufactures for mom-and-pop companies to Fortune 500 companies. With sales located in the U.S. and production in China, it allows TinScape to effectively communicate with clients and meet all commitments and expectations. TinScape can produce custom tools in 30 days or less. You can also take advantage of hundreds of ready to go tools in all shapes
Bellucci EVOO Traceability System is Blockchain Validated Tree to Table An innovative leader in the production of fully traceable, high-quality, 100 percent Italian extra virgin olive oil, Bellucci launched its Trust Through Traceability campaign in 2014 with a proactive and ethical approach to providing a transparent look into its supply chain while bringing clarity in food labeling directly to the consumer. With the Bellucci app and the unique lot code printed on the label of every bottle, consumers can verify the authenticity of their extra virgin olive oil, as well as trace their bottle of Bellucci back to its source in rural
Italy. This traceability system has also received an independent third-party ISO 22005 certification by Bureau Veritas. In 2018, Bellucci began integration of blockchain cloud technology to further validate its traceability system. The platform was initially launched at its bottling facility through the point of distribution in the U.S. Bellucci now takes blockchain integration to the next level with expansion and implementation to include the cooperative of growers and the mills throughout Italy. Each participant in the supply chain creates and
signed to be delicious and meet the requirements of most special diets. ZEGO is leading the clean food movement by testing its products at third party labs to ensure they meet ZEGO’s strict purity standards for 400-plus potential and known toxins like glyphosate, BHA, arsenic, allergens and gluten. With ZEGO’s patent pending system, consumers scan the QR code on any of its packages or go to its website to see the purity test results for each product. As a certified B Corp, ZEGO doesn’t simply aim to provide purity and transparency be found at www.trace minerals.com/buy-online.
About TMR Trace Minerals Research (www.traceminerals.com) is the ionic mineral supplement brand you’ve known and trusted for over 40 years and is America’s No. 1 selling trace mineral and liquid magnesium brand according to SPINS. TMR is the exclusive provider of ConcenTrace® Trace Mineral Drops, an ionic, solar evaporated, GRAS-affirmed, food-grade, kosher, halal, and Non-GMO Project Verified essential trace mineral complex for food, beverage and dietary supplement use. ConcenTrace is also the No. 1 selling trace mineral in the natural products industry according to SPINS. TMR uses these naturally balanced, naturally occurring minerals as the basis for all products in its branded product line. Extensive research supports the need to keep minerals in proper balance throughout the body to achieve optimal health. Trace Minerals Research is focused solely on servicing the natural products industry and the company’s complete line of superior quality nutritional and sizes. TinScape has the ability to 3 dimensional emboss anywhere on the tin, produce windows, hinges, latches and vac tray inserts. You are only limited by your imagination. Should you have a concept, TinScape will take it from CAD drawing to prototype to finished structure in a blink of an eye. shares a permanent, unalterable record of the product journey from olive groves to the mills through bottling, shipping and distribution all to a secure shared open ledger. The ultimate goal is to provide retail buyers, distributors and consumers with complete transparency and traceability from grove-to-grocer. From the ground up, precision agriculture is leveraging advances in technology via satellite, GPS and even photographic equipment to improve the efficiency of food production. The industry has already progressed from using tech to measure and track crop yields and soil levels, to monitoring
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in its food. It wants to fuel consumer demand for purity so other companies will be incentivized to provide the same. The company’s goal is to shift the entire industry so that publishing “purity facts” becomes as standard in the food industry as “nutrition facts.” ZEGO is putting everyone in the supply chain on notice: the transparency revolution has started. Get on board early or consumers may leave you behind.
Visit ZEGO at Fresh Ideas #F14 and North Hall #N2325. For more information, go to www.zegofoods.com, call 415.706.8094 or email info@zegofoods.com.
supplements is backed by a “Feel the Difference or Your Money Back” guarantee. In addition, TMR is Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP) certified by the Natural Products Association™ (NPA) (www.npainfo.org) and UL® Registrar LLC (www.ul.com) partnership under the new Food and Drug Administration’s final cGMP rule [21 CFR 111] for dietary supplements and has been GMP certified since 2004.
About Better Nutrition Magazine Reaching nearly 1 million readers monthly, Better Nutrition celebrates 70 years as a leading in-store distributed magazine for health-conscious consumers. Widely distributed to thousands of health-food stores and grocery chains across the country, Better Nutrition provides authoritative, well-researched information on food nutrition, dietary concerns, supplements and other natural products.
Visit Trace Minerals Research at booth #4035. Tins are a great way to help build your brand. They are 100 percent recyclable, sturdy, and enhance the perceived value of what’s packaged inside. TinScape will partner with you and help bring your vision to market in a reliable, professional and fun atmosphere.
For more information, email sales@ tinscape.com. weather patterns and water usage, and how these factors affect harvest. Now, the agricultural industry is beginning to see the positive impact of technologies and AI to differentiate between crop plants and their neighbors, for increased efficiency in the application of fertilizers and pesticides. This is just the beginning, with Bellucci continuing to drive innovation in food tech and raise the industry standards in the extra virgin olive oil category.
Visit Bellucci at booth #5257. For more information, go to www.belluccipremium.com.
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The Evolution of Green Vibrance Green Vibrance was the first green superfood, introduced in 1992. It contained 34 ingredients. Many competing green foods have appeared since then, but none has ever matched Green Vibrance. They cannot keep up with the continuous evolution. No Vibrant Health formula is “cast in stone.” The only way a dietary supplement can remain prescient and up-to-date is to follow the latest findings of science and incorporate the best raw materials. Sensibly, Green Vibrance continues to improve based on evolving knowledge. The formula today contains more than 70 ingredients. The number has grown over time as new raw materials appeared that fit the core purpose of Green Vibrance: to feed and nurture our ancient biochemistry in this modern world. Foods consumed by our Paleolithic ancestors provided maximum nutrient density be-
cause the soil upon which the plants grew had never been farmed. No nutrient depletion from repetitive farming had occurred. Furthermore, wild animals ate those nutrientdense plants, concentrating high levels of micronutrients in their tissues. Our ancestors were also much more physically active than we. They subsisted on a daily intake of about 5 pounds and 3,000 to 3,500 calories of food. Only Olympians consume that much today. Life places milder physical demands upon the rest of us. Thankfully, it is easy to cut back our calories from fat, protein and carbohydrates. But as we do, we also dramatically reduce our intake of micronutrients compared to ancient times. Each calorie delivered up by protein, fat and carbohydrates back in Paleolithic times, brought with it more vitamins, minerals, carotenoids and other micronutrients than do modern foods. This is important because the
Simple Mills Raises the (Snack) Bar If you think you’ve tasted every kind of snack bar under the sun, think again! Simple Mills’ new Soft Baked Almond Flour Bars break the mold with a unique delightful-toeat texture, purposeful ingredients, wholefood heartiness and nothing artificial. The result: grab-and-go snacking perfection for adults and kids alike. Packed with whole-food satisfaction in every bite, Simple Mills’ newest contribution to better-for-you snacking is soft, chunky and satisfying – all at the same time. That’s because each bar consists of a soft-baked base chock-full of nuts, seeds and fruit pieces that bring contrasting textures and whole-
food nutrition to every bite. You will only find real, whole food ingredients baked into each soft, satisfying bar. With nut flours and seeds as leading ingredients, Simple Mills Soft Baked Almond Flour Bars are made without grains, dairy, soy, corn, high-fructose corn syrup and unpronounceable ingredients. They are also certified gluten-free and made without gums, emulsifiers and natural flavors. Simple Mills didn’t compromise what it put in them, so you don’t compromise what you get out of them. It’s that simple. Simple Mills bars are naturally sweetened
Nature’s Earthly Choice Unveils New Healthy, Microwaveable Products Nature’s Earthly Choice is now offering new products that are going to make healthy eating a whole lot easier: Riced Veggies and Bean Bowls that microwave in seconds. These shelf stable products are designed for people who are looking for great-tasting, nutritious foods that are simple to incorporate into a healthy diet. These new products demonstrate Nature’s Earthly Choice’s commitment to providing high-quality, on-trend foods made with the best, simplest and most nutritious ingredients. “With more and more people today adopting low-carbohydrate ways of eating, such as the ketogenic diet or the paleo diet, vegetable-based rice is becoming a popular and important part of home-cooking,” said Chuck Watson, President of Nature’s Earthly Choice. “Not only do our Broccoli and Cau-
liflower Rice offer people a way to eat more vegetables, they are a solution for those who have been looking for tasty, wholesome, low-carb alternatives to traditional rice products.” Great Day Bean Bowls are healthy, delicious and conveniently microwaveable. Available in three delicious flavors: Mediterranean, Caribbean and Burrito Bowl. Great Day Caribbean Bean Bowl is a vacation from your usual healthy meal choices. It starts with long grain brown rice, adds colorful ingredients like black beans, bell peppers and onions, and tops it off with the delicious flavors of the Caribbean. This exotic meal comes with plant-based protein, 15 grams of fiber and a good source of iron and potassium, all-inclusive. The Mediterranean cuisine incorporates a
Sunflower Chips – Sun Baked Goodness Sunflower Chips, a fresh, truly unique healthy snack made by SNACKS FROM THE SUN™, a JDW Family of companies, is crafted in a proprietary sun kernel milling process to deliver the richest flavor available on the market. Artisan-baked Sunflower Chips are made
from the highest levels of simple, plantbased ingredients, and meet the highest standards of being non-GMO, vegan, kosher, gluten, grain and eight allergen-free. SNACKS FROM THE SUN Sunflower Chips is the first to market an all-natural chip made from sunflower kernels – authentic,
minute chemistry of life relies on micronutrients in our food. Can we safely reduce our intake of those micronutrients as we reduce calories mandated by our sedentary lives? Not by very much. The solution? The Green Vibrance evolution. Green Vibrance nudges you back to the level of health enjoyed by our Paleolithic ancestors by meeting the needs of your Paleolithic biochemistry. Green Vibrance delivers a vibrant mix of micronutrients. Food sources for these include certified organic spirulina as well as chlorella, and cereal grass juice powders backed up by the vegetables, parsley, zucchini, beet juice, carrot, broccoli, sea vegetables and spinach. The ingredients were chosen based on their extreme nutrient density. These naturally low-calorie plants deliver maximum micronutrients per calorie. Green Vibrance has taken advantage of the with honey and molasses, delivering 7-9 grams of sugar per bar. The bars deliver in-the-moment deliciousness with the perfect touch of sweetness. Simple Mills Soft Baked Almond Flour Bars are a snack that’s yours for the taking ... wherever you take it. Its nutrient-dense ingredients help fill you up and keep you going – from carpool to the office, the bars can be enjoyed by everyone in the family. Choose from four varieties: Dark Chocolate Almond, Chunky Peanut Butter, Nutty Banana Bread and Spiced Carrot Cake. There’s something for everyone! unique variety of vegetables, grains and spices, but you don’t have to travel any further than your own pantry to experience these delicious flavors. It starts with hearty farro wheat berries, adds nutritious vegetables like tomatoes and spinach and tops it off with the Mediterranean flavors of garbanzo beans and delicious spices. The meal includes plant-based protein, 10 grams of fiber and is a good source of calcium and potassium. They say it’s what’s on the inside that matters. Nature’s Earthly Choice agrees. That’s why it’s unwrapping the burrito and giving you all of the goodness of the inside. It starts with nutritious quinoa and brown rice, adds colorful ingredients like fire roasted corn and red and black beans, and tops it off with the delicious flavors of cilantro, lime juice and chili powder. With plant-based protein, 13 grams of fiber and a good source of iron and trend-forward and wildly delicious. Sunflower Chips is a savory sensation available in three flavors: Original with Sea
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rapid development of specialized plant extracts. Over time, alterations and additions to the botanical antioxidants selected for their verified capability to improve circulation have occurred. The first version of Green Vibrance led the industry by combining six strains of probiotics at significant potencies. The formula has evolved to 12 strains today. Throughout its evolution, Green Vibrance has fed and protected our Paleolithic heritage. It always provides nutrient density and few calories, rehabilitates and improves digestion, supports efficient circulation, helps protect against the effects of stress, supports healthy immunity, supports a robust skeleton and protects our more modern and toxic environment.
For more information, visit booth #H1203, go to www.vibranthealth.com, call 800.242.1835 or email mail@vibranthealth.com.
Simple Mills Soft Baked Almond Flour Bars are sold in Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Amazon, Thrive Market and other grocers as well as on the Simple Mills website in packages containing five individually wrapped bars for a suggested retail price of $5.99. They join Simple Mills’ rapidly expanding portfolio of nutrient-dense wholefood snacks, including the No. 1 baking mix, No. 1 cracker and No. 3 cookie brand in the natural channel.
For more information, go to www .simplemills.com or visit booths #N1129 and #E5309. potassium, this is the super bowl of burritos.
About Nature’s Earthly Choice Since 2005, Nature’s Earthly Choice has been searching the globe for the most nutritious, tastiest foods and making them convenient and accessible for Americans. After starting with quinoa, farro and wheat berries, the company expanded its line of ancient grains to include everything from superfood seeds like chia and hemp, to plant-based protein powders like maca and goji berry, to prepared and microwaveable foods. Nature’s Earthly Choice is a company that has one eye on healthfulness and another on simplicity.
Visit Nature’s Earthly Choice at booth #5061. For more information, call 208.898.4004, email sales@earthlychoice.com or go to www.earthlychoice.com.
Salt, Cracked Pepper with Sea Salt, and Sweet Onion with Sea Salt. Suggested retail price is $3.99. Taste the experience of SNACKS FROM THE SUN!
For more information, email rory@giftbasketsupplies.com or call 714.634.3478.
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ChildLife Essentials 2020 Company Profile ChildLife® Essential’s mission is to improve, enhance and support your child’s health for life. The company’s core values include quality, integrity, efficacy and trust. Its commitment is to: create premium natural supplements; only use top-quality, pure ingredients; make allergy-free, gluten-free and GMO-free supplements; and never use artificial colors, sweeteners, flavors or fillers.
Company History Since 2000, ChildLife Essentials has been committed to offering the first complete line of premium liquid nutritional supplements made especially for infants and children to keep them healthy and strong. Dr. Murray Clarke opened his medical clinic in Santa Monica, California, in 1988 with a general practice utilizing acupuncture, herbs, nutrition and homeopathy. One of the challenges Dr. Clarke faced was the lack of high-quality supplements that were
geared towards babies and children. This inspired Dr. Clarke to create his own formulas specifically targeting the unique needs of children. In 2018, ChildLife Essentials First Defense won the Best of Supplements Award. The following year, the brand’s Echinacea won Taste for Life 2019 Back-to-School Essentials Immunity Support Award. Childlife Essentials has a 19-year track record of success in providing parents the tools they need to help support their kid’s health needs and requirements.
Core Products ChildLife Essentials has 19 supplements, all specifically formulated to address the issues and challenges kids deal with daily. Dr. Clarke has put together his recommendation of the Core 4 ChildLife Essential products kids should be taking on a daily basis to build a foundation of health. These
Ricchiuti Family Farms Produces Fresh, Premium, Organic Products For more than 100 years, the Ricchiuti family has diligently worked the land with the goal of bringing premium, fresh, Californiagrown products to its loyal customers. Following in the footsteps of patriarchs Vincenzo and son, Pat Ricchiuti, are Patrick and Vincent Ricchiuti, representing the third and fourth generation, with an aim to carry on the family legacy of being a diversified California agricultural business. The Ricchiuti family has long been known worldwide for their almonds and more recently, for their organic almonds under the P-R Farms, Inc. label. P-R Farms, Inc. is a grower, huller, packer and shipper in addition to being qualified in all export regulations. As members of the Almond Board of California, P-R Farms, Inc. abides by prescribed grower practices that are sustainable, economical and environmentally friendly.
With a strong commitment to stay abreast of technological advancements, the family continually re-evaluates and upgrades equipment and production methodologies to ensure exceptional products, efficiency and food safety. In a quest to continue diversification while responding to consumer demands, the Ricchiuti family took on a new venture in 2008, drawing upon four generations of farming expertise in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley to craft 100 percent estategrown organic extra virgin olive oil. The Ricchiuti’s ENZO Olive Oil Company remains steadfast in its pursuit to uphold the family’s 100-year tradition of excellence by planting each and every tree, harvesting the crop, milling the fruit and bottling the oil under the direction and supervision of Patrick and Vincent Ricchiuti.
Two Recipes from Bone Suckin’ Sauce Beef Brisket in the Oven
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 7 hours 30 mins Total Time: 7 hours 40 mins Yield: 8
Ingredients Bone Suckin’ Steak Seasoning & Rub, 3 Tablespoons Beef Brisket, 8-10 lbs.
Instructions Preheat oven to 225 degrees. Trim brisket and remove most of the fat cap, leaving about 1/4 inch of fat (excess fat won’t allow the rub to penetrate the meat and won’t render (melt) during cooking). On the meaty side; slice off any silver skin, which is a tough, thin membrane. Smaller cuts may not have excess fat, but do
check meaty side for silver skin. Sprinkle Bone Suckin’ Steak Seasoning liberally all over the brisket. Place a thermometer in the thickest part of the brisket . Place brisket on a small rack to hold up in the air in baking pan and cover with aluminum foil. Cook until meat reaches internal temperature of 203 degrees.
Notes You can put the leftovers in resealable bags and freeze or if you have a vacuum bagging machine you can do that. If you vacuum bag the brisket, you can reheat easily in the oven at 250 degrees by putting it in a baking pan and putting about two inches of water in it. It takes about two hours to reheat this way. Put the meat (wrapped in foil) into the cooler. Close cooler and leave meat there for
include: Multi Vitamin & Mineral: This formula contains all 16 “essential” vitamins plus the primary minerals, making it the best multivitamin for children. Liquid Vitamin C: This supplement has been thoroughly researched and shown to help support the immune system through daily use. ChildLife’s formula for Vitamin C is a 2019 Taste For Life Essentials Award Winner. Pure DHA: This superstar nutrient supports healthy brain growth and function. Vitamin D3: Vitamin D is so important, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends using a supplement to help meet daily requirements of 400 IU. ChildLife Essentials is excited to share details of two new products that will be coming to market in the Spring of this year. It is debuting these products at Expo West. Quality Assurance ChildLife Essentials is an NSF cGMP and USDA Organic certified facility. All
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ChildLife Essentials products undergo full quality testing prior to release to ensure product identity, purity and strength exceed the highest industry standards.
R&D Efforts The ChildLife Essentials Research & Development team is constantly sourcing new, innovative and high-quality raw materials, packaging and product delivery forms to ensure that children around the globe continue to receive the best products formulated specifically with them in mind.
Key Executives & Titles Dr. Murray Clarke, Founder and President Karyn McCarthy, Vice President of Sales and Marketing Adam Sutter, Quality Director
Visit ChildLife Essentials at booth #4249. For more information, call 310.305.4640, email hello@childlife.net or go to www.childlifenutrition.com.
Most recently, the Ricchiuti family took another step to expand their product offerings by introducing the perfect complement to their ENZO organic extra virgin olive oil with the addition of ENZO Organic Balsamic Vinegar. This prized Italian classic is fashioned in the Old World style where time-honored traditions and techniques yield a rich, complex and flavorful artisanal treasure. Vincent has also enhanced the line of specialty items to include handcrafted pesto and almond butter featuring nuts and organic extra virgin olive oil from the Ricchiuti’s orchards and groves. As a proud member of the California Olive Oil Council, ENZO Olive Oil Company adheres to the most stringent standards in the world and shares in the organization’s mission of promoting fresh, certified extra virgin olive oil. ENZO Olive Oil is also sanctioned organic by the United States Depart-
ment of Agriculture, certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers, kosher certified by Kosher Supervision of America, as well as certified by the Non-GMO Project. With their nationally and internationally acclaimed, awardwinning line of ENZO varietals, infused and cocrushed, organic extra virgin olive oil, organic balsamic vinegar, ENZO TABLE pantry items and premium P-R Farms, Inc. California almonds, one could easily agree that founders Vincenzo and Pat Ricchiuti would be most pleased to see the direction and progress Ricchiuti Family Farms has realized since its inception back in 1914.
one to two hours, until you are ready to eat. Slice meat against the grain after separating the flat and point sections (each has a different meat grain direction). Be advised that there is a period called “the stall” where the meat temperature tends to stay a little over 150 degrees for a long period of time (during this time moisture in the meat rises to the surface and cools the meat by evaporation). Temperature is “stuck” up to five hours, depending on size of brisket.
Baby Back Pork Ribs, 5 lbs.
Bone Suckin’ Ribs Recipe
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 3 hours 30 mins Total Time: 3 hours 40 mins Yield: 4
Ingredients Bone Suckin’ Sauce, 1 – 16 oz. jar
Visit ENZO Olive Oil Company at booth #5396. For more information, go to www .prfarms.com or www.enzooliveoil.com, email info@prfarms.com or info@enzo oliveoil.com or call 559.299.7278.
Instructions Preheat grill or oven to 300 degrees. Put ribs in shallow pan and baste with Bone Suckin’ Sauce. Cover ribs with foil. To Grill: Place pan with ribs on the grill for three hours at 300 degrees. Uncover, baste with Bone Suckin’ Sauce. Raise grill temp to 350 degrees. Cook 1/2 hour uncovered but still in pan, basting again after first 15 minutes. To Make in Oven: Bake three hours in oven. Uncover, baste with Bone Suckin’ Sauce. Raise oven temperature to 350 degrees. Cook 30 minutes, uncovered, basting again after first 15 minutes.
For more information, visit booth #5321 or set up an appointment with the BSS team by calling 919.833.7647 or emailing sales@bonesuckin.com.
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Dream Pretzels Meets Consumer Demand Through Innovation An interview with Gilad Zilberberg, Chief Executive Officer and Owner, Dream Pretzels.
GN: What is the mission of Dream Pretzels?
GZ: The mission of Dream Pretzels as a company and brand is to bring innovation and better-for-you products to the traditional snack market. We offer everything the consumer wants – great taste, better nutrition, more accessibility and transparency.
GN: What drove the decision to add a protein-based product to your portfolio?
GZ: At Dream Pretzels, we are constantly following nutrition new trends in the world and saw increased emphasis on plant-based
diets as well as a marketplace need for protein, which drove the idea of creating a legume-based pretzel for our product portfolio. New Protein Pressels and Pretzel Twists feature 5 grams of plant-based protein per serving in a snack that’s as perfect for athletes as it is for lunchboxes, busy lifestyles and board rooms. GN: How did you come up with the idea for Protein Pressels and Pretzel Twists?
GZ: We saw a very large marketplace need for this type of product. Consumers – everyone from those engaged in sports to parents looking to give their kids a snack with higher nutritional value – are looking for new and innovative ways to get protein into their diet, but without compromising
Salty Wahine Gourmet Hawaiian Sea Salts Salty Wahine Gourmet Hawaiian Sea Salts is an award-winning, family-owned Kauai Made Company that specializes in Hawaiian sea salts, seasonings and tropical cane sugar using fruit infusions such as mango, coconut, guava, passion fruit, lychee and pineapple. Salty Wahine’s goal is to “Make Eating Healthy Fun.” Salty Wahine was founded in 2008, and its products can be found at over 200 stores and restaurants worldwide, including Hawaii Commissaries, Navy Exchange, Safeway, Foodland, ABC stores, Lamont’s, Whalers General Stores and Accents throughout Hawaii, the United States, Canada, Europe
and Japan. Owner Laura Cristobal Andersland promotes her products at Specialty Food Association’s Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco and the Tokyo Food and Beverage Show. Salty Wahine promotes its products at Hawaii Aloha Festivals in California, Nevada and Arizona. Salty Wahine has grown from a small parttime business to a nationally recognized family owned and operated company. Laura has used her business experience to prepare her children to expand the Salty Wahine brand worldwide. Laura’s children are the fifth generation to live on Kauai, have graduated from college and have become full time em-
Eco-friendly Packaging from La Preferida Celebrating 70 years in the Mexican food business in 2019 was no small feat, and La Preferida is proud to attribute that to its base of loyal customers. Listening to changing marketing demands has been the cornerstone of the company’s business and it plans to do it again with its push for more sustainable packaging. At the forefront of its eco-friendly packaging initiative is the Tetra Recart® line which will feature organic enchilada sauces – a red variety and green variety with a mild flavor profile. These sauces were expertly designed by La Preferida’s corporate chef and have robust flavors from organic tomatillos, roasted green chiles and
poblanos. Soon to follow will be organic pinto beans, black beans, lentils and chickpeas. All Tetra Recart items are certified gluten free. La Preferida’s beans in Tetra Recart are the first of their kind in the Hispanic food category, packed in the U.S.A. La Preferida’s unique packaging is made with recyclable materials, is easy-open and resealable and has space-saving features (30 percent increase in shelf space). These products will complement La Preferida’s growing assortment in key categories, such as organic, low sodium, vegetarian and kosher while maintaining the company’s commitment to authentic Mexican ingredients. By offering competitively
PJC Offers Functional Beverages At the forefront of the recent “all things pickle” movement is the Texas-based Pickle Juice© Company. Founded in 2001, the Pickle Juice Company, LLC (PJC) has become a global leader in the functional beverage space. Recognized as one of the top 10 fastest growing food and beverage companies in North
America and the No. 1 global product to stop muscle cramps, PJC has led the way in creating hyper functional beverages that have become staples for everyone from the casual consumer to elite sports teams and athletes. PJC’s flagship product lines, Pickle Juice Sport and Extra Strength Pickle Juice Shots are
on taste. We saw the opportunity and are very happy and proud to have succeeded in developing a product that will meet this need.
GN: What drove your innovation in this area and how long was the product development phase?
GZ: It took two years to develop this product. During the process we tried many types of legume flour, high-protein flours and other ingredients to ensure not only excellent nutrition quality, but good shelf life and great taste. We do not compromise on taste or quality. GN: What are your plans to further expand the protein-based product line?
GZ: We are very excited about this product and are already working to expand our offering. We’re looking at both new and innovative ingredients such as other high-protein flours as well as new flavors.
ployees assuming all production responsibilities, allowing Laura and her husband David to travel to food shows to further market the business. Salty Wahine has gained the reputation of being a premier Hawaiian sea salt seasoning company with 44 international awards. Salty Wahine was selected as the best Kauai made product by the Garden Isle newspaper “Best of the Best Peoples Choice Awards” for 2013-2019, 2017 Pacific Edge Best Hawaii Family Business, 2017 SBA Hawaii Exporter of the Year, Hawaii’s 2017 Ho`okela Awards for Retail Merchant of the Year and Fastest Growing Retail Merchant of the Year, and 2017 & 2019 Pacific Business News Fastest Fifty
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GN: What marketplace need do you see this new product filling?
GZ: Dream Pretzel takes pride in offering products that are high quality and accessible. Our products offer great value and are also uncompromising when it comes to ingredients and flavor. We are excited to greater expand our footprint in the U.S. – through retail like grocery, superstore and convenience stores, and through innovative channels such as vending, foodservice, workplace markets and home delivery. GN: What’s next for Dream Pretzels?
GZ: We are always looking ahead and working on new and innovative ways to bring special snacks to the marketplace. We have some big things in the works and look forward to bringing wonderful new snack products to market in 2021 and beyond! Visit Dream Pretzels at booth #N1834.
award. Salty Wahine’s founder, Laura Cristobal Andersland’s, dream of having her own store and commercial kitchen has become a reality. Salty Wahine gives factory tours every Friday via Tasting Kauai. Salty Wahine can provide any quantity of Gourmet Hawaiian Sea Salts to retail, food service and wholesale customers, with Salty Wahine’s 7,400 square feet retail factory outlet in Hanapepe Hawaii.
Visit Salty Wahine at booth #M411. For more information, email info@saltywahine.com, call 808.378.4601, or go to www.saltywahine.com or www.facebook.com/saltywahine.
priced organic products and BPA-free can lining, its goal is to empower the consumer to be able to make healthier choices without paying more to do so. Spearheading this surge in product development is La Preferida’s corporate chef, who is hands-on in the manufacturing process. His adaptations on traditional Mexican dishes focus on fresh produce, lean proteins and low-fat alternatives, helping to breathe new life and flavors into these old classics. You can find his many innovative ideas like Piña Colada Yogurt Bars and 7 Layer Mexican Dip (made with greek yogurt and kale) on the company’s website. Despite bouts of economic uncertainty in the CPG business, the resiliency of La
Visit La Preferida at booth #1921. For more information, go to www.lapreferida.com or call 773.254.7200.
purpose-built products that have nothing to do with pickles or pickling. The name Pickle Juice® is a registered trademark that was selected for the product because the proprietary grain of vinegar that is used to block the neural receptors that cause muscle cramping lead it to taste similar to pickle brine, the stuff from the jar. Studies dating back to 2010 indicate that muscle cramps are a neurological issue rather than a physiological one so, contrary to pop-
ular belief, the cramps are not stopped by the high level of electrolytes in pickle juice; it’s the proprietary vinegar that functions as a neural inhibitor. Other features of Pickle Juice include that it is certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, sugar free, caffeine free, contains 10 times the electrolytes of common sports drinks and is made in the USA using only locally and domestically sourced component parts and ingredients.
Preferida continues to shine through. Its pinto beans, seasonings and sauces are the fastest growing in their category according to IRI data from the past nine months. The versatility of its products as ingredients means customers can incorporate these items into a variety of dishes outside the Mexican food realm. Building upon its strong roots in the Midwest, La Preferida is continually working to strengthen its relationships on the East and West coasts, so distributor/broker inquiries are always welcome.
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Ariston Introduces New My Dressing Center By Tom Doukas, Owner, Ariston
Ariston My Dressing Center is a new, patent pending and amazing technology for your high traffic stores. Ariston Dressing Center is targeted to tech savvy Millennials and is easy to use for all age groups at the same time. In today’s challenging and ever-changing retail market, there are a lot of factors when a store decides to add more products or apparatus to sell existing products with a new twist. When I designed Ariston’s Dressing Center, I had my customers’ thoughts and concerns in mind. With the
Dressing Center, I will provide my customers six different products with the thousands of combinations they can make with those six items in a very small space. I am also providing a touchscreen with recommendations for pairings, which is something customers always asked for. “What can I pair my oil with?” is the most common question from the Ariston consumer. Furthermore, The Ariston dressing center can mix up to two oils and two balsamics at the same time in the same bottles at any percentage that the consumer wishes. Imagine how many different products and countless combinations they can
Full Fat Whole Milk Sheep Yogurt from Bellwether Farms Family owned and operated since 1986, Bellwether Farms is located in the beautiful rolling hills of the Sonoma County coast. The creamery is only a few miles from the ocean and well-known areas like Tomales Bay, Point Reyes Seashore and Bodega Bay. This region, about an hour north of San Francisco, is known for mild temperatures and summertime fog, and has a rich history of dairy production going back over 150 years. Among the first in the United States to specialize in the production of sheep milk cheeses, Bellwether Farms began milking sheep and producing its handmade cheeses in 1990. In 1996, the family added cheeses
using local Jersey cow milk. This awardwinning line of dairy products now includes both fresh and aged products made from each of these amazing types of milk. Early on, the company was fortunate to visit traditional, small-batch cheese makers in Europe. It discovered that when using traditional methods, no two cheese makers produced the same cheese due to terroir – subtle differences in milk, climate, equipment and technique. This was welcome confirmation that it had chosen the right path; its emphasis on the traditional and time-tested methods would ensure the quality and unique flavors that could not be replicated anywhere. Bellwether Farms sheep milk yogurt is a
There’s Never a Cardboard Taste in Jack’s Paleo Kitchen Cookies Established in Ferndale, Washington in 2015, Jack’s Paleo Kitchen (Jack’s) is on a mission to prove that eating Paleo doesn’t have to mean “never eating a tasty treat again.” Jack’s is actually an acronym for the family members, Josh/Avery/Cadence/Karissa. The story begins when owner Josh was diagnosed with gluten intolerance, and his daughters, Avery and Cadence, also showed symptoms that had improved with the elimination of gluten. Later, Josh and his wife Karissa discovered the Paleo regimen and were amazed by how good they felt after adopting that lifestyle. Eventually, after
many batches of cookies were tried, Josh and Karissa finalized their recipes for soft and delicious Cookies and Trail Mix bites – desserts that never compromise taste or texture. All of Jack’s cookies are nut-free (except for coconut), grain-free, dairy-free, egg-free, free of any refined sugars, soy-free and non-GMO – and most importantly, they do not taste like cardboard! At Jack’s, cookies are a treat that nearly anyone can enjoy no matter whether or not they have food restrictions. The company creates tasty treats that have no allergens and source sustainable, fair-trade, high-quality
Apex Display Group’s Stock Tooling Program Aids Customers Apex Display Group, founded in 2007 and located in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, is a brand-focused and customer-dedicated POP display company. The company’s mission is to design and produce cost-effective displays that support and build customer brands while also increasing customer retail sales. Apex supports customers’ in-store merchandising programs through innovative graphic and superior structural design. The company comple-
ments this process with its vast manufacturing capabilities. Apex also has the capability to perform all assembly, pack out, warehousing, e-commerce and shipping that its customer companies require from Apex’s facility. David McBride, Director of New Business Development, states that the company’s goal for the show is to reach new prospects. Apex is primarily interested in companies that are in the specialty food
make. Imagine the satisfaction and entertainment of your customers making their own personal dressing. It gives them empowerment and the feeling that they are in charge of their own choosing. No predetermined recipes were thought of in a laboratory and put into a bottle. Additionally, your customer gets few, non-GMO, gluten-free, clean 100 percent natural ingredients of their own liking. Imagine if they mixed oil and balsamic along with garlic infused olive oil and fig infused balsamic vinegar. They can take this mix, place it in their blender and add pitted Kalamata olives, capers, scallions, mustard, one anchovy and blend it for a few seconds – instant gourmet salad dressing. revelation in flavor and health. The No. 1 ingredient is whole sheep milk. Bellwether Farms sheep milk yogurt can be enjoyed by many people who are intolerant of cow’s milk, and want a yogurt that tastes like cow’s milk but doesn’t have a soy or goat milk aftertaste. When compared to cow and goat milk yogurts, Bellwether Farms sheep yogurt has 70 percent more protein, 70 percent more fat and 50 percent more calcium. The yogurt is available in plain, vanilla, strawberry, blueberry, blackberry and spiced apple. It looks beautiful on the shelf and customers will love it. The enthusiastic support the company receives from customers around the San Francisco Bay area and across the country is ingredients for all of its products. Jack’s is attending the show not only to increase awareness of its allergenfree products, but also to launch a line of refrigerated/frozen cookie dough that is as safe to eat raw as it is delicious when baked. For customers who have food restrictions or for those who are simply seeking a healthier treat that they don’t have to bake themselves, Jack’s offers seven Paleo Cookie varieties for you to enjoy: Chocolate Chip, Snickerdoodle, Ginger Molasses, Lemon Zing, Cinnamon Raisin, Sunflower Seed Butter and Cranberry Chocolate Trail Mix Bites. It is nearly impossible for in-store bakeries and organic CPG industries. McBride says Apex is extremely proud of its stock tooling program, which includes hundreds of sets of Apex-owned tooling that it custom prints with a customer’s graphics. In January 2019, the company added 40,000 square feet of assembly, pack out and warehousing space. This allowed it to include an additional high-speed shrink-wrapping line and to expand both its warehousing and e-commerce programs. Through Apex’s stock tooling program,
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The sky is the limit. How about giving your customers some recipes? At My Ariston Dressing Center, they can choose from a number of different recipes and email it to their smartphone instantaneously. They can go home, print the recipe or simply view it on their phone and execute the recipe then and there. Lastly, let’s get together and change the game for the benefit of your store and your customer. Ariston My Dressing Center gives your stores the cutting edge in gourmet food and new technology. This experience can only happen in your store – not online.
Visit Ariston at booth #N1508. For more information, go to www.aristonspecialties.com.
proof that it is providing something very special. The awards it receives at the American Cheese Society’s competition and the NASFT Sofi awards are a further stamp of approval from within the industry. Bellwether Farms is committed to making the very best cheese and cultured dairy products using full-fat whole milk from both sheep and Jersey cow milks. Its award-winning cheeses and yogurts are found in specialty cheese shops and superior retailers as well as being featured on the menus of the finest restaurants across the country.
Visit Bellwether Farms at booth #4919. For more information, go to www .bellwetherfarms.com.
to make products that are truly allergen-free without cross-contamination, and for that reason, Jack’s products are designed to sell in the bakery. The company provides an option directly in the bakery department for consumers with food restrictions. Jack’s Paleo Kitchen Cookies are available in retail grocery stores in 45 states. Don’t settle for cardboard! Try Jack’s Paleo Cookies and Trail Mix Bites – they are scrumptious.
For more information, visit booth #N1844, go to www.jackspaleokitchen.com or call 360.220.5707. companies can develop custom-printed display shipper programs without having to invest in the thousands of dollars typically associated with tooling. The company can complete all assembly and pack out of the customer’s product in the Apex facility, which allows a reduction in cost and turnaround for its customers. This creates a complete turnkey process, simplifying the entire experience for its customers.
For more information, go to www.apexpop.com or call 215.531.1756.
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Tylers Coffee for an Acid-Free Cup of Joe Founded in 2004 and initially marketed door-to-door via bicycle, Tylers Coffee (Tylers) is the sole acid-free coffee available. Tylers was created as a means to ease the physically uncomfortable side-effects of acid-based coffee. Other coffee blends on the market today contain harmful tannic and lipid acids. These acids “bloom” during the normal bean roasting process. The acids are implicated in a number of dental and gastrointestinal problems. Tylers roasts only the highest quality organic beans. As the only Acid-Free Coffee, Tylers is proud to have helped more than a hundred million people enjoy coffee without
discomfort. The company has a trade secret roasting process, the Z-Roasting process, which does not allow the tannic and lipid acids to bloom. Invented by chemists and coffee connoisseurs, the Z-Roaster has been meticulously engineered to allow for computerized monitoring of the atmospheric conditions. The roaster is monitored by a computer allowing every roast to be exactly the same, every time. This means Tylers Regular Roast has a higher amount of natural caffeine as a result, without any of the negative acid problems. Many people use the caffeine in coffee to give them a jolt of energy before they begin whatever the day can throw at them. Others
Interpress Celebrating 30 Years of Food Packaging Solutions Interpress Technologies is a leading food packaging manufacturer specializing in formed paperboard cups and containers, wrapped cups, printed sidewalls and folding cartons. Interpress continuously expands its capabilities to offer additional sizes and packaging options.
Microwavable Paperboard Cups With years of experience and product development, Interpress became the first manufacturer of paperboard cups designated for microwave use. Microwavable paperboard cups are more sustainable compared to foam wrapped plastic cups. Paperboard cups are made primarily of renewable resources and use 92 percent less plastic and weigh 42 percent less than foam wrapped cups. Also, Interpress paperboard cup graphics are far superior compared to printed foam. New Paperboard Overcap Lids Interpress is excited to offer the next gen-
eration of paperboard overcap lids for cups. Interpress paper lids include full color graphics on the lid rims and top panels for enhanced marketing appeal, and are more sustainable compared to plastic overcap lids.
Microwavable Paper Wrapped Plastic Cups Interpress is pleased to introduce new sizes of paper wrapped plastic cups. The paperboard overwrap provides additional rigidity to the lightweight plastic cup and thermo protection while providing an excellent smooth printing surface for graphics. In addition, consumers can remove the paper wrap from the plastic cup and recycle both in many municipalities. The paper wrapped plastic cups are great for microwave and refrigerated food options and can be further engineered for additional moisture and oxygen protection. Due to their versatility, wrapped cups are used for a variety of products including ce-
HyVIDA Sparkling Water Has Better Bubbles An interview with Rick Smith, President, Chief Executive Officer, co-Founder, HyVIDA.
GN: Tell our readers about HyVIDA.
RS: HyVIDA is what you get when techsavvy entrepreneurs with spunk create a beverage. We harnessed hydrogen gas, a powerful antioxidant, infused it in sparkling water and added a dash of certified organic flavors.
GN: Like other sparkling waters, HyVIDA has zero calories, zero sugars, zero sweeteners and zero caffeine. What makes HyVIDA different?
RS: HyVIDA delivers amazing functionality to the sparkling water category and a unique taste experience. HyVIDA’s phenomenal for your body as the world’s first to infuse hydrogen gas (H2) into sparkling water to deliver powerful antioxidants. We also added
30mg of magnesium, creating a user experience unlike any other sparkling water brand. Magnesium is a super mineral that aids the nervous system, reduces anxiety and has shown to help the body metabolize Vitamin D. Also, our process increases the pH to neutralize the acidity on the tongue and esophagus. The incredible result is a soft, bubbly experience that allows the certified organic flavors to leap over the palate.
GN: What does hydrogen do for the body that makes it an antioxidant?
RS: Many of our customers feel the Hy when they drink HyVIDA. Backed by over 1,000 published medical studies, hydrogen gas scavenges the body to neutralize free radicals directly in the cells, repairing environmental damage and soothing soreness. Hydrogen (H2), being the smallest molecule, travels through the body much faster than Vitamin C, profoundly impacting ath-
drink decaffeinated coffee for the taste but do not want the caffeine buzz. A decaffeination process is meant to remove all or most traces of caffeine from the finished product. For decaf lovers, Tylers uses a Swiss Water Decaffeination process. Along with all these benefits, when brewed with purified or alkaline water, Tylers Coffee reaches a neutral or alkaline pH. Tylers sources its coffee beans from Chapas, Mexico and its Decaf Blend from Columbia. Utilizing the All-Natural Swiss Water Decaffeination, Tylers Decaf Blend is between 98 and 99 percent decaffeinated. Both blends are AAA-rated Arabica beans sourced from strictly regulated farms that are certified organic by the U.S. Department of real and granola, oatmeal and overnight oats, soups, macaroni and cheese, mashed potatoes, pet food, chowders and chilis, yogurt and desserts.
Paper Wrapped Plastic Cups with a Clear Advantage Interpress offers wrapped cups with a clear plastic cup which allows consumers to see the container contents. The paper overwrap can have graphics printed on the back side for viewing printed fill, coupons and additional branding information. The paper wraps can also include a custom die-cut window, offering greater visibility to the package contents and additional brand distinction.
Non-Round Tapered CanNesters™ The Interpress tapered oval non-round CanNester containers offer cost efficiency and shelf appeal for dried fruits, confections, frozen desserts, entrées, oatmeal and baking mixes. Interpress CanNesters stack letes looking for a competitive edge, students cramming for an exam or professionals seeking to balance a healthy and social lifestyle. GN: Who is HyVIDA’s target customer?
RS: Health-conscious people looking for better-for-you options in all aspects of their life. This includes the young, the spry, teens, kids, health freaks, domestic divas – anyone who drinks sparkling waters or values the benefits of a healthy beverage. We also see people using HyVIDA Hydrogen Infused Sparkling Waters as cocktail mixers. The crisp flavors make it an easy mixer and the functional benefits are an added reward – particularly the following morning.
GN: Is HyVIDA an energy drink?
RS: No, HyVIDA is not an energy drink. Many consumers often feel ‘perkier,’ a sense of clarity, sharpness or calm after a can of HyVIDA. With only four ingredients: car-
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Agriculture. Packaging is equally important in the quest for an acid-free cup of coffee. At Tylers, each bag is purged of oxygen and replaced with harmless nitrous to preserve freshness. There is a one-way degassing valve that allows the nitrous to exit the bag. Single-serve cups are individually packaged and boxed to provide optimal freshness. Tylers is all about passion, product and people. It is the company’s tenacity in the search for a pleasant cup of coffee for all people, even those with tender tummies, that allows it to produce great-tasting, healthy coffee.
For more information, go to www.tylers coffees.com or call 855.554.3833.
to improve shipping and storage space by a ratio of 13 to 1 compared to straight-walled preformed canisters and has a wide flat billboard surface for graphics.
With a variety of packaging options from Interpress Technologies, brand owners can look forward to offering attractive, user friendly, functional cost-effective packaging to protect foods. Celebrating over 30 years of experience and innovation, Interpress Technologies has three locations producing “Made in USA” food packaging with high impact graphics and certified sustainable paperboard. Interpac Technologies, a sister company, is a certified organic co-manufacturing facility and fills cups, oils (coconut, olive, flax), packets, bags and pouches and offers distribution services.
For more information, call 800.929.9771, email inquiry@iptec.com or go to www .interpresstechnologies.com. bonated water, magnesium, certified organic flavors and hydrogen, HyVIDA is a stimulant-free beverage made to Neutralize Negative Energy™. GN: Where is HyVIDA sold?
RS: On Amazon and over 1,000 retailers across the USA, from natural independent stores to larger chains. We have great distribution partnerships with KeHE and UNFI supporting multiple distribution centers.
GN: What is the origin of the name HyVIDA?
RS: We’re having fun with the brand name. How many brands get to tell people to do something healthy while sounding taboo ... ‘Get Hy™’! Hy is an abbreviation for both hydrogen and hydration, and VIDA means life.
For more information, go to www.hyvida.com, call 231.780.7450 or email rick.smith@hyvida.com.
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New Country Mayup Adds Flavor and Fun to Savory Meals Discerning dippers have long considered a combination of ketchup, mayonnaise and seasonings to comprise the ultimate condiment. Often called “fry sauce,” it’s popular in the U.S. and beyond for its creamy, tangy flavor. In its January product launch, specialty food maker Stonewall Kitchen debuted its take on this addictive sauce. A blend of its thick, delicious Country Ketchup – which has a richer taste than most other ketchups – and its robust Farmhouse Mayo, this new offering is especially tempting. The
name of the product is a playful merge of “ketchup” and “mayo” (“Mayup”) that’s as fun to say as it is to taste. Unlike Thousand Island sauce, which is a combination of ketchup and mayo that often includes add-ins like pickles and onion and is often used as a dressing, Country Mayup is totally smooth and creamy, making it an exceptional partner for everything from fries to vegetable sticks to burgers and more. It has an especially pleasing tangy, slightly sweet flavor that both kids and adults will want to
The Meaning of Monti Trentini’s Name Monti Trentini cheeses are made in the heart of the Dolomite Mountains in the Trentino Province of Italy. The creamery’s name literally means “the Trentino’s Mountains,” and it was there that the Finco family decided to start their dairy in 1925, just after the conclusion of World War I. They chose the region within a mountain range that’s so internationally famed for its beauty that it’s
now recognized as a World Heritage Site because they wanted to support the local mountain community and because they could obtain a higher quality of milk there. Since then, Florindo, who started the dairy, has passed it on to Franco and then to Franco’s sons. Today, that third generation: Federica, Fiorenzo, Fabio and Florindo, still make cheese the same way that Florindo Finco did
Pocas: Healthy Foods from Around the World An interview with Kevin Shin, President/Chief Executive Officer, Pocas International.
GN: Tell our readers about your company.
KS: Pocas International is an importer and manufacturer of natural foods and beverages. I founded Pocas in 2005. Now we are national-based and have seven distribution centers in Texas, Illinois, Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, California and our headquarters in New Jersey. GN: What would you say makes your company unique?
KS: As healthy food adventurers, we are passionate about delivering premium healthy beverages and specialty foods from all around the world to our customers. From aloe vera drink, moringa tea and turmeric powder to dragon fruit chips, we have led market trends with innovative and quality items. We supply the best healthy products to our valued customers with the lowest price
possible.
GN: What are you doing this year that’s different from what you did last year?
KS: We have achieved big success in the traditional market. This year, we are making history in the online market. We have launched our favorite items in major e-commerce websites along with our own website, www.mypocas.com, and got remarkable results and feedback from our customers. We communicate more with customers and hold multiple online events that lead to boosting sales and traffic to the website.
GN: What was the most significant event or series of events affecting your company over the past year?
KS: Ten years ago, aloe vera was known as an emollient for sunburn, but was not much consumed as a juice drink. We imported and introduced aloe vera drinks to the American market for the first time. We have won statewide acclaim and are hailed as being a
Daddy Sam’s All-Natural Bar-B-Que Sawces By Kyle Oglesby, Owner, Daddy Sam’s LLC
We make delicious West Texas style barbecue sauces. Daddy Sam Oglesby was a cowboy and rancher in West Texas and our amazing family recipe is named after him – he is also our great grandfather! Sharing great food and fun with family and friends is what we are trying to complement at Daddy Sam’s (and ribs!). Good food always tastes better with great company and
we want to be a part of that at Daddy Sam’s. As we like to say ... Just Slop It On! We created Daddy Sam’s because we couldn’t find anything like it on grocery store shelves. We wanted a West Texas barbecue sauce without any corn products, gluten, soy, MSG, fillers or anything artificial, so we decided to bottle up the family recipe. Daddy Sam’s is certified gluten free, certified kosher, non-GMO compliant, vegan and a woman-owned business.
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include as a complement to all kinds of snacks and savory meals. Stonewall Kitchen has had great success with a series of delicious aiolis and sauces that feature some innovative ingredient combinations. Its Roasted Garlic Aioli and Sriracha Aioli, for example, already have a strong following among many who appreciate a unique dip for their chicken tenders and fries. Country Mayup makes a great new addition to the line. Another product in the January launch, Legal Sea Foods Sea Salt & Vinegar Aioli, features the tart and tangy flavors of salt and vinegar potato chips in a mouthwatering,
For more information, go to www.stone wallkitchen.com.
almost 100 years ago, following the ancient art of cheesemaking and respecting its traditions. Nearly 20 years ago, the Finco family decided to bring their mountain cheeses to the United States. Customers recognized the superior quality of Monti Trentini cheeses as soon as they’d tasted that first Asiago Fresh wheel, and they started asking for more: Aged Asiago, Grana Padano, Fontal, Lagorai and naturally flavored Caciotta. The Finco family was ready and eager to meet that demand, and now, more
than 15 different kinds of cheeses come to the U.S. bearing the Monti Trentini label. Monti Trentini USA also offers Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, Ricotta Salata and many more Italian PDO and traditional mountain cheeses selected directly by the Finco family. Monti Trentini continues to search for new products that will earn the esteem of American consumers and retailers, and today, Monti Trentini is one of America’s most trusted sources for a complete range of Italian mountain cheeses.
big success in the healthy beverage market. In addition, we are proud to introduce the very first vacuum dried dragon fruit chips to the market. Ever since it was introduced to the market in 2017, Pocasville Dragon Fruit Chips has been loved. We are partnering with major wholesale partners like Costco and Trader Joe’s to deliver this healthy snack to more customers.
GN: Are you introducing any new products? If so, what distinguishes this new product from others already on the market?
KS: We are debuting five-flavor omija juice drink. The berry gives five different flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy so that your customers enjoy way beyond refreshing and feel the mysterious harmony in every sip. It is non-GMO and contains no preservatives and no artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners.
GN: Why are your products or services the best value for your customers?
KS: Our products are known for their great quality and innovative aspects. They have
Daddy Sam’s Original West Texas Recipe is molasses, vinegar and mesquite based. It’s tangy and sweet with a kick at the end, and very versatile. We created Daddy Sam’s Salmon & Seafood Glaze because fish and seafood are so often left out when people think of barbecue. We know people are missing out on great flavors if they are not barbecuing fish and seafood. There is nothing else like it on the market and we’ve changed perceptions about what can be barbecued with it. It also has a 1st Place Scovie award!
creamy sauce and makes a wonderful addition as well. A third new sauce, Lemon Avocado Oil Aioli, delivers a citrusy kick thanks to lemon juice and pure lemon oil and is great for adding a punch to sandwiches or baked salmon. Country Mayup is a condiment that people will love to include at all kinds of gatherings, whether it’s a Super Bowl party or a cozy midwinter meal between family and friends. Whatever the occasion, anyone who loves to dip will want to keep it stocked in the pantry.
won PRODEXPO Golden Award, America Masters of Taste, Beverage Innovation Award, Golden Europe Award, Sial Canada Innovation Competition, and also Monde Selection Gold Award and Superior Taste Award. We have seven different distribution centers to deliver our best products faster and safer. Throughout the year, we participate in over 70 trade shows, including national and vendor shows to support our customers and promote the products.
GN: How do potential new customers know that they can trust you with their business?
KS: As the company matures, we are achieving success by identifying and partnering with not only retail stores, but also national distributors and wholesalers, such as Walmart, Costco, Jetro, Save-A-Lot, Trader Joe’s, Amazon, etc. We pride ourselves on honesty and integrity to build long-term relationships with clients and distribution partners.
For more information, go to www.pocas.com or call 201.941.7900. Follow the company on Instagram and Facebook.
Our Ginger Jalapeño flavor is an updated and zesty take on West Texas barbecue. We wanted a sauce with a modern twist and more heat, that still excites barbecue traditionalists. Daddy Sam’s Ginger Jalapeño Bar-B-Que Sawce has two 1st Place Scovie awards! Daddy Sam’s has amazing and exceptionally loyal fans. You are the best! We know that barbecue is a passionate world and brand loyalty is a big deal. Thank you so much, Daddy Sam’s fans!
For more information, go to www.daddy sams.com, call 512.827.1958 or email kyle@daddysams.com.
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DeBrand Chocolate Art Boxes DeBrand Chocolate Art Boxes are handcrafted, exceptionally unique edible masterpieces. One of the newest additions to DeBrand’s collection of Chocolate Art Boxes is Draped in Gold. This box is elegantly adorned in edible stunning 24-karat gold leaf and is handcrafted in rich, dark chocolate. The perfect, unique gift for someone who has everything, it adds a touch of luxury to any special event. Not only is it stunningly beautiful, but is also delicious! Indulge like royalty with the magnificent Draped in Gold Chocolate Art Box
and leave a lasting impression. DeBrand’s collection of Chocolate Art Boxes also includes Flower Power, Polka Dot, White Rose and Seashell. Visit www.debrand.com to see each stunning box. For the ultimate gourmet experience, these incredible, edible pieces of art can be filled with an assortment of DeBrand’s popular Classic Collection or decadent Truffle Collection. Each box can hold approximately 12 Truffles or 23 Classic Collection pieces. The Classic Collection is perfect for those who appreciate quality and tradition. It in-
Lemon & Vine: Dedicated to the Art of Food By Alethia Erotas, President and Owner, Lemon & Vine
Lemon & Vine is a family owned and certified woman owned company dedicated to the art of food with true quality, taste and visual appeal that is made with the best, premium ingredients. The inspiration for the products at Lemon & Vine came from our Yaya (Greek for Grandma). It was 1930 when Angelique
came to America from Greece – a young woman with her husband and children. Times were hard, but she held her family together with her boundless love and the wonderful food she prepared. She knew that the dinner table was the center of family life. Just serving their favorite meals was her way of saying “I love you” every day. Lemon & Vine takes great pride in working very closely with our co-packers to ensure that only the best ingredients and
GN: You’re launching a refrigerated raw energy bar company called BeBOLD. What does this company have in common with your first company, Stacy’s Pita Chips?
SM: After Stacy’s Pita Chips, I focused on raising my twins. When Stacy’s sold, I was admittedly lost. I wanted to stay connected to the industry and keep work/life balance intact, so I opened a local juice bar. This is where BeBOLD Bars were created and sell like crazy. Similar to snacks, the bar category is super crowded. BeBOLD Bars are the first product I have felt has the same potential as the Pita Chips. I just know it.
The common theme between all companies? You have to start with taste, first and foremost. A bar is really a snack and your snack should taste great. We started with a great tasting bar. Then it was up to my brother Dave (an original pita chip guy) to scale the company and bring the dream to fruition. This included bringing on some of the people we worked with over the past few decades.
SM: Stacy’s changed the snack food business. Each time I go to the store and watch a mom put a bag in her shopping cart, there’s
SM: When you speak to people about bars, typically they say they are choosing a particular brand for a reason; more protein, whole grains, it’s good for me – but rarely do they
GN: You’ve already had a successful exit with Stacy’s Pita Chips. Why would you want to start another company?
The Forest Farmers Presents New Leaf Tree Syrups New Leaf Tree Syrups (New Leaf), produced by Forest Farmers, is a premium line of certified-organic sweeteners made from a variety of tree species. The company’s unique syrups are crafted exclusively from the sap of maple, birch, walnut, beech, basswood and other rare tree species in order to provide the greatest diversity of forest-based sweeteners in the world. New Leaf is a leading supplier of certified organic tree saps and syrups used by food technologists and manufacturers in beverages and packaged goods. Co-founded by Dr. Michael Farrell in 2017, New Leaf is the result of many years of innovative research and development deter-
time-honored techniques are used in our products. We order custom made pasta for our Pastichio entrees and only fresh Fillo dough made onsite for our appetizers. Every Lemon & Vine product is handmade to ensure the visual of the food you are eating is as beautiful as the taste is amazing. When you try a Lemon & Vine product, you will think they were made in our own home kitchens – they are that good. We would accept nothing less and neither should our customers. Today, Mediterranean flavors, especially a sense of reward and satisfaction. That isn’t something you can buy, its earned and trusted. I know I can make a similar change in the bar category. Personally, I watch the news and cannot believe what craziness is going on in the world, so for me this is a way of putting some sanity into what I’ve felt is an insane world. Creating this company is how I know I can make a change, even if it’s just as simple as an energy bar, so I am stepping forward and doing what I know I do well. It might be small, but if we all do a little something, it can make big change.
From Stacy’s Pita Chips to BeBOLD Bars An interview with Stacy Madison, Founder, BeBOLD Bars.
cludes timeless favorites such as luscious caramel variations, pure fruit creams bursting with wonderfully intense flavors, as well as re-inspired traditional selections such as Gourmet PBJ, Orange Cream and Strawberry Rhubarb Caramel. DeBrand’s Truffle Collection is the perfect gift for the ultimate chocolate lover. These 12 incredible Truffle variations seem almost too beautiful to eat … almost. Each oversized piece is individually and artistically designed, but their true beauty lies within. Every silky, rich Truffle
mining how to best harness the wonderful and delicious diversity of America’s native woodlands. “After spending many years as Director of Cornell University’s maple research center, it is a unique opportunity to take the lessons learned there and apply them in large scale to harvesting and processing a wide variety of tree saps using the most environmentally friendly and advanced technology available,” said Dr. Farrell. New Leaf is proud to be developing the most diverse array of saps and syrups from native trees in wild forests, in particular bigleaf maple syrup from the Pacific North-
GN: What has the response been to the bars, and why the refrigerated section?
west. Building upon his experiences at Cornell, Farrell is now focusing his efforts on expanding bigleaf maple syrup production through a partnership with private landowners and University of Washington researchers. Until now, bigleaf maple syrup has only been produced on a small scale and has not been available to the trade. Farrell is working to change that by getting more landowners interested in producing the syrup while also carefully blending it with its east coast syrup. New Leaf has developed a signature blend of pure maple syrup produced from sugar and red maples from northeast forests with pure maple syrup from bigleaf maples on the West Coast. The deeper, more intense flavors
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is a luxurious chocolate dessert that will entice each and every customer! Not only does DeBrand carry impressive chocolate gifts, but also provides many options for tempting impulse chocolates such as Caramel Pretzel Bars, Peanut Butter Cups, Mint Cookie Crunch Tasting Bars, Sea Salt Caramels and more.
more information, For www.debrand.com.
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Greek, are gaining popularity at a rapid rate. Discriminating consumers are looking for Greek food products that they can prepare in their own homes yet also taste amazingly authentic and make the consumer feel good about what they are putting on their table. Lemon & Vine’s soul is based in Mediterranean ingredients and classic recipes as well as a creative modern spin on the traditional and new ideas.
For more information, go to www.lemonand vine.com, call 707.927.3249 or email info@lemonandvine.com.
say, ‘I love them, they taste great!’ We are not trying to be anything in particular; high protein or low carb, but we are plant-based with clean and pure ingredients. Juice bar customers would purchase a bar for $3.25, then return and buy 10 for $25. They’re in the refrigerator because our base ingredient is nut butter. We add oats, Brazil nuts (yes, those expensive ones), walnuts, chia and chocolate chips. Our team likes to say, ‘Sweetened with bees and trees’ (wildflower honey and dark maple syrup). We mix, press, package. Nothing more, nothing less. The protein is from nuts. Gluten and dairy free. Eighteen grams of whole grains and kosher. Personally, I love them frozen, too!
For more information, go to www.bebold bars.com, call 855.623.2653 or email info@beboldbars.com. of bigleaf maple syrup gets a sweet lift from the traditional, iconic sugar maples of New England. Whereas most maple syrup is made in March and April in the northeast, most bigleaf maple syrup production occurs between December and February in the Pacific Northwest. The company works with specialty food retailers, gourmet grocers, restaurants and foodservice distributors. It provides unique, delicious syrups at competitive prices, which allows retailers and foodservice professionals to offer great products and memorable experiences to their customers.
For more information, www.newleaftreesyrups.com 518.637.7000.
go or
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Associated Buyers Expands into New York City In June 2019, Associated Buyers, Inc., of Barrington, New Hampshire, purchased specialty distributor, Gotham Artisanal, of Maspeth, New York, and thus expanded its territory into the five boroughs of New York City, as well as Hudson Valley and Long Island. Gotham Artisanal’s focus was hospitality. It provided many of the best restaurants and bars in the NYC area with bitters, specialty sodas and concentrates, cocktail mixers and ingredients, olives, cherries and various other specialty items. Associated Buyers has worked hard to rebuild what Gotham Arti-
sanal supplied to its customers, as well as grow and improve upon the product offering and customer service. It is now serving the NYC area with a limited but exceptional catalog of products. Associated Buyers is a family-owned, certified organic distributor of natural, organic, specialty and local foods to the Northeast market from its warehouse and offices in Southern New Hampshire. Over the years, it has grown from just a few people serving local markets to a small company serving a diverse account base across New England.
Jake’s Nut Roasters Almonds Jake, a fourth-generation member of the Jasper Family, is proud to continue the farming traditions of his great-grandfather that have been passed down for over 70 years. Since 1948, a commitment to quality and innovation has propelled many fine Jasper Specialty Foods products into the hands of health-conscious almond lovers around the world. Jake’s Nut Roasters is a creative line of specialty almond snacks with distinctively bold flavors. These almonds are in fact “Straight from Jake’s Orchard” showcasing the company’s vertical integration and commitment to sustainable growing practices.
Jake’s almonds provide an unparalleled snacking experience, and make eating this healthy snack both fun and satisfying. Produced in a dedicated peanut-free facility, these premium California almonds are dry roasted and seasoned in small batches to deliver exceptional quality. Jake’s 7-ounce can has a cool, classic appearance that looks great on store shelves, kitchen counters or table centerpieces. Take them on-the-go or conveniently fit them into the cup holder of your car. Almonds are an essential plant-based snacking alternative providing numerous health benefits with key protein, vitamins
New Plant-Based Jerky from Bella Sun Luci Mooney Farms and the Bella Sun Luci brand, well known for their sun dried product line, recently launched a new sun dried tomato product, Plant-Based Tomato Jerky. Made with moist and delicious sun dried tomatoes, this savory snack is sure to satisfy your salty cravings. With only 90 calories per serving, it’s sensible, too. Bella Sun Luci’s plant-based jerky line is vegan, non-GMO, kosher and contains a
good source of fiber, iron, Vitamin C and Vitamin K, and an excellent source of potassium. There will be two delicious flavors derived from traditional jerky favorites with a sun dried tomato twist: Hickory Smoked and Sriracha. “We’re excited to bring sun dried tomatoes to the snack market in this new and innovative plant-based jerky,” says Mary Mooney, Owner of Mooney Farms. “As with all of our
RLA Collective Goes Big with Integration, Small with Targeting An interview with Alyson O’Mahoney, Managing Director, RLA Collective, a Ruder Finn Company.
GN: Tell our readers about RLA Collective and why it’s unique.
AO: RLA Collective is a data-driven brand marketing agency that uses audience targeting data within multiple integrated platforms to move the needle for consumer brands. These can be dietary supplements, medical foods, OTCs, healthy/functional foods, pet health, medical devices, personal care, etc. This intense focus means we understand the various sides of marketing consumer brands, from compliance behavior to regulatory, retail or ecommerce concerns. We know what works to drive sales in all the channels consumers are using, while minimizing risk.
GN: How do you approach brand strategy?
AO: We know it’s never one size fits all. With the plethora of channels in which consumers receive information 24/7, it’s easy for a brand to create white noise. Strategy depends on the brand, the category, the situation. For example, are you new to market, facing declining sales or potential delisting at a retailer, adding SKUs? Whatever the case, we look at your goals, sales data and trends, what’s been working or not, audiences, competition, timing and budget. We then custom design a campaign based on your situation, budget and available data. GN: What’s different about your approach?
AO: For most brands, it’s difficult to go after a broad audience and still be competitive. We
Since the mid-70s, its customers have come to the company for its friendly, reliable customer service and diverse product mix. It distributes to a wide variety of accounts, including retail grocery stores, coops, restaurants and cafes, colleges, institutions, hospitality establishments and buying clubs across the Northeast. The company delivers to Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut and now the five boroughs of New York City, Hudson Valley and Long Island. It is slowly expanding into the New York and minerals, which should always be part of a healthy diet. Be sure to try some of Jake’s bold and unique seasoned almond products, “Straight from Jake’s Orchard” to you. Jasper Specialty Foods is a multi-generational, family-run operation headquartered in Newman, California, specializing in the production of unique almond related food snacks, confections and other treats for the specialty food market. “From Farm to Market” is a slogan often used to epitomize the philosophy of the company in that, first and foremost, it is farmers seeking to grow and produce the finest almonds in the world by controlling every products, we’re only using the highest quality ingredients to create a snack that customers can enjoy without any guilt. We believe that this delicious, plant-based alternative to high-fat, high-calorie, no nutrition chips and salty snacks is just what the market needs.” Bella Sun Luci is a line of premium Mediterranean-inspired products created from authentic family recipes. The line includes a variety of deliciously sweet sun dried tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, sun dried tomato chipotle sauce, pasta
prefer to focus on a subset of your audience that will engage with your brand ... then test, learn and scale, looking at data points at every step. We use evolving digital platforms, such as our artificial intelligence (AI), then layer on data that helps us to micro-message the brand story. We focus on your target consumer rather than the channel, educate through storytelling, and get them into the purchase funnel. Consumer research is part of our approach when developing an unbiased strategy. We have a great research tool in-house that helps get insights in real time.
GN: What does ‘integrated marketing’ mean?
AO: That term is thrown around a lot, but for us it means a good campaign will be multi-faceted, much like today’s consumers and the varying ways they receive information. Each facet works together with the others to strengthen the whole. Whether it’s our
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City area and bringing with it over 40 years of experience in natural, organic and specialty food distribution across the Northeast. The company has always and will always pride itself on providing personal, caring and innovative service to all its partners, and both its customers and vendors. The company looks forward to continuing to serve all of its loyal customers, and welcomes its new customers.
If you are interested in becoming a customer in the New York City area, email or call gotham@assocbuyers.com 603.664.5656. For general information, email info@assocbuyers.com.
aspect of the process including planting, farming, harvesting, processing, packaging, sales and distribution. Some of its popular brands include Nunes Farms, Jake’s Nut Roasters and Jasper Ranch, to name a few. The company is actively involved in developing new flavors, custom mixes and smart packaging with an emphasis on small batch process and exceptional quality. California almonds from Jake’s Nut Roasters are the perfect pairing of bold new flavors and traditional, handcrafted production.
For more information, call 800.255.1641 or go to www.jasperspecialtyfoods.com or www.jakesnutroasters.com.
sauces, bruschetta spreads, estate-grown olive oil, risotto, marinades and new vegan jerky. Bella Sun Luci is produced by Mooney Farms, a third generation, family-owned company based in Chico, California, that is rooted in quality, integrity and family values. Mooney Farms is the premier producer of sun dried tomatoes in the United States.
For more information, go to www.bella sunluci.com. AI digital advertising platform, influencer activation, targeted content partners, PR, CRM, video, promotions, it all works together with unified messaging and a strong brand strategy. Everything has a purpose.
GN: What’s your advice to brands?
AO: Don’t assume you know your audience. Do objective research that provides unbiased insights for audiences and messaging. Partner with an agency that understands the evolving digital landscape and has capabilities that have been successful for other clients, one that understands what keeps you up at night and is willing to set measurable, meaningful goals for your brand. Listen to their counsel and give the marketing the time it needs to work. Brand building is a process that takes commitment and time.
For more information, email aomahoney@rlacollective.com or call 914.241.0086.
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High-Quality Ginseng from Wisconsin The state of Wisconsin produces nearly one million pounds of ginseng annually. This precious herb takes four years to bring to harvest. Ginseng grown in Wisconsin is the plant Panax quinquefolius, which is different than the Panax ginseng grown in Asia. Panax quinquefolius has different benefits than Asian ginseng. First of all, it is used for in-
creasing an individual’s energy and stamina. In fact, the famous Mayo Clinic conducted research using Wisconsin Ginseng capsules, to test if the ginseng helped increase energy levels in cancer patients. The research, completed in 2012, proved that Wisconsin Ginseng increases a person’s energy levels. Currently, another study by the Mayo Clinic is underway.
Franklin Baker Offers Coconut Ingredients Franklin Baker, Inc. is the largest processor in the Philippines and premier supplier of coconut ingredients to the global food and beverage market. The company has been in business for over 125 years and takes pride in long standing customer relationships, many of which exceed 60 years. Its products are produced in the Philippines from the freshest nuts available, at one of its three manufacturing facilities, where proprietary processing is utilized to ensure freshness and long shelf stability. Franklin Baker controls the process from tree through shipment, allowing its customers to have the highest level of safety and confidence in the product
supply chain. Franklin Baker offers: wet steam pasteurization of all the coconut – no other competitor pasteurizes their product; BAX testing for salmonella, which is 10,000 times more sensitive than the competition’s BAM method; reliable and proven service levels for all products including specialty items; R&D and technical support direct from the Philippines; Franklin Baker guarantee of satisfaction; and three U.S. warehouse locations. Franklin Baker offers an extensive portfolio of coconut products: desiccated coconut including sweetened and toasted, coconut water – single strength and concentrate, co-
New Products from The Pickle Juice Company The Pickle Juice Company, LLC based in Mesquite, Texas, has made a name for itself by developing a revolutionary approach to addressing muscle cramps and taking the “functional foods” concept from the physiological realm to the neurological realm. By addressing muscle cramps at the neurological root cause rather than the physiological symptoms, the company’s flagship products, Pickle Juice® Sport and Pickle Juice Shots have become widely regarded as the most effective and quickest acting treatments for muscle cramps. The rapid growth of the company has allowed it to be recognized as one of the top 10 fastest growing food and beverage companies in the United States. It has created global expansion with distribution in Aus-
tralia, South Africa, New Zealand, Canada, Mexico and parts of Europe. That growth has also allowed for the construction of a new, state-of-the-art distribution facility, increased its social responsibility and the company has announced three new products in the pipeline: CBD Shot, Get UP! Recovery and Beet Juice. The newly announced products are designed to provide solutions to specific problems using natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals. Social Responsibility The Pickle Juice Company, LLC supports over 450 non-profit charity events throughout the United States annually, is committed to helping bridge the gender pay gap in sports and supports amateur sports organiza-
Novacart’s Bakeable Packaging An interview with Joseph Miglia, General Manager, Novacart
GN: What kind of products does Novacart have to offer?
JM: Novacart manufactures bakeable packaging. Novacart’s bakeable packaging is by definition packaging that you can bake right in with no need to unmold and repackage, and is ready for sale. We produce over 300 styles of paper baking molds and cups to handle any baking need.
GN: What does bakeable packaging mean?
JM: Free-standing paper baking molds you just fill, bake and sell all in the same unit.
Once filled and baked in, your goods can be sold and/or served with no need to repackage, saving both time and money. The one question we are asked consistently is, ‘Can I really bake in these?’ Yes, our baking molds are oven-safe up to 390 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as microwave and freezer safe. Just line up our molds on a sheet pan and fill, bake and sell. Our molds are designed for one time use that eliminates the need for metal pans, no washing and no maintenance. GN: What materials go into making Novacart products?
JM: Our molds are made of the finest quality food grade paper. We offer a variety of molds
For the past 100 years, Chinese consumers in Asia have used Wisconsin Ginseng. It is known as the “gold standard ginseng” throughout Asia. Traditional Chinese medicine doctors use Wisconsin Ginseng to help with a variety of ailments. Wisconsin Ginseng is used as an ingredient for food and drinks in Asia. This highconut milk and cream, coconut concentrate, creamed coconut, virgin coconut oil, coconut flour, coconut sugar and other coconut products. Franklin Baker is proud of its extensive third-party certifications and accreditations, including: certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, certified by the Non-GMO Project, Fair Trade USA, BRC, Control Union, ISO 9001:2000, ISO 22000:2005, HACCP, FDA Philippines, GMA-SAFE, AB PAO Accredited Testing Laboratory, SEDEX, kosher, halal certified, and Award of Excellence, 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019 American Master of Taste & Gold Medal Endorsement for Superior Taste and 2018 and 2019 Beverage Champion by tions all over the world. All of The Pickle Juice Company’s products are manufactured in the United States using only locally and domestically sourced products and ingredients.
CBD Shot CBD has recently become the hot item in the CPG industry. The Pickle Juice Company, LLC has developed a lavender spearmint flavored CBD shot that contains 50mg of bioavailable CBD per 2.5-ounce serving with zero THC. This product is designed to help prevent pain and inflammation and reduce anxiety.
Beet Juice The nitrates in beets have long been recognized by elite athletes as a natural way to increase the oxygenation levels of red blood cells. Additionally, beets can increase blood
that feature easy release coatings or laminates. Our baking cups and tulip cups are produced with grease resistant paper and designed for automated denester use. We are proud to be BRC certified and FDA compliant. GN: How do consumers use your products?
JM: Our products are easy to use. You place the molds on a sheet pan and bake the same way you would as in a metal pan. Sometimes baking temperatures need slight adjusting, but generally baked goods brown nicely and produce beautiful results.
GN: Who uses your products?
JM: Retailers, manufacturers, grocers and co-packers all use Novacart products. Retailers appreciate the time they save and the variety it brings to their bakery cases.
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quality ingredient can add value to your products. It is very versatile and an excellent choice for giving your customers energy and stamina.
For more information, contact the Ginseng Board office at 715.443.2444 or go to www.ginsengboard.com.
Chefs In America. Franklin Baker is a Platinum Sponsor of the Coconut Coalition of the Americas and proudly serves on its Board of Directors. Franklin Baker’s levels of product certification are unrivaled and provide its customers with confidence in the quality, safety and sources of what they are buying. The company holds itself to the highest product standards, which makes Franklin Baker, A Cut Above the Rest. Franklin Baker offers bulk, foodservice and retail packaging options to meet your business needs to forge a trusted coconut supply chain partnership.
For more information, email info-us@ franklinbaker.com.
flow, lower cholesterol and allow consumers to exercise longer. The Pickle Juice Company, LLC has developed an organic concentrated Beet Shot that contains the same amount of nitrates of three beets in one 2.5-ounce serving.
Get UP! Developed as the ultimate recovery product, Get UP! was originally created for the overseas market and will make its way to the North American market. Get UP! takes the neural inhibition properties of pickle juice and adds the organic caffeine and the key ingredients used in pre-workout products to give users the boost they need during recovery.
For more information, visit www.pickle power.com.
Manufacturers use our products to reduce waste, labor cost and the high expense and upkeep of metal pans. GN: What’s new at Novacart?
JM: Our new Elite Tulip Cups, which are created with a 70 gsm heavyweight paper. They are designed to form a barrier to oil transfer, resulting in a Tulip Cup that has more rigidity and consistent color, which creates an exceptional look for your baked good. Also, we have added to our grab-andgo line with three new individual sized molds with lids, and have introduced three sizes of corrugated walled Panettone molds which provide structural support.
For more information, go to www.novacart usa.com, call 877.896.6682 or email info@novacartusa.com.
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Ezekiel 4:9 Sprouted Grain Bread from Food For Life Baking Co. Food For Life Baking Co., maker of the incredibly delicious and nutritious Ezekiel 4:9® Sprouted Grain Bread, has been committed to the health of its customers since its inception over 50 years ago. Among the many natural sprouted grain breads are its widely popular Ezekiel 4:9 and Genesis 1:29® breads, English muffins, tortillas, buns, cereal, pitas and pasta. Sprouting maximizes digestibility and nutrition, while lowering the glycemic index in its flourless bakery products. Beyond the commitment to superior nutrition, there’s also a commitment to a balanced and protected pH in every loaf. Why is a balanced pH so important? Food For Life recognizes that a balanced pH is absolutely essential for optimum health.
Food For Life meticulously chooses its ingredients, and refuses to use acidifying agents such as cultured wheat starch, vinegar, calcium propionate and ascorbic acid – all preservatives. As an amazing benefit of sprouting, grains actually become more alkaline as water and oxygen support the growth of the new plant and naturally balances the pH. While a balanced pH is great for health reasons, a higher pH does tend to shorten shelf life. This is why the company primarily sells Food For Life breads frozen. Because of the popularity of its Ezekiel breads, Food For Life is seeing more competitors releasing sprouted grain breads, but using acidifying agents like vinegar and cultured wheat starch to extend their shelf life.
Desi Natural Brings Innovation to Indian Inspired Yogurt Segment “Ethnic inspired foods are driving significant growth at retail. The Indian food segment is no different, with mainstream consumers increasingly seeking it out. And now, we are finding mainstream retailers looking to better serve the Indian population,” said Larry LaPorta, General Manager of RFG Dairy, LLC. Enter Desi Natural™ Dahi, the No. 1 Indian yogurt in the U.S. For centuries, Dahi, or Indian yogurt, has been enjoyed in many authentic Indian recipes. Its creaminess and mild, never tart flavor work well with every dish. Rich in probiotics, Dahi is essential to
help maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Moreover, Desi Natural Dahi yogurt is crafted with care and uses only the finest, Grade A ingredients. Based on the category dynamics that convenience and snacking are driving growth in the yogurt segment, Desi Natural is now shaking up the yogurt category with the launch of the first ever Indian inspired single serve flavored yogurts – Alphonso Mango, Mahabaleshwar Strawberry, Allahabadi Guava, Kerala Tall Coconut, Karnataka Vanilla, Carandas Cherry, Cavendish
Piller’s Black Kassel – Where Charcuterie Takes Shape For over 60 years, Piller’s Black Kassel has been bringing Old World Craftsmanship & Legendary Taste to the North American market with famous deli case salamis and more recently with snacking innovations. The brand’s premium dry-aged salamis, known for their unique artisanal shapes, like the heart-shaped D’Amour Salami, have long been featured in service delis across the country, but now Black Kassel has introduced convenient packages for the specialty deli meats category.
Black Kassel has launched a 6-ounce Charcuterie Trio, combining three of its popular shaped salamis – D’Amour (heart shaped), Mustard Seed (square/diamond shaped), and Old Forest (flower shaped) – in a convenient pre-sliced package. The brand also re-launched its Mustard Seed, Old Forest and Picante salamis in 4 ounce pre-sliced packages. Certified gluten free, MSG free and free of all major food allergens, these unique artisanal shapes are a perfect choice to serve
Sombra’s Money Back Guarantee to Increase Sales As a store buyer, you know that your customers have thousands of choices in the products they buy from your company. You probably also realize that in order for a customer to try a product, you must offer them a way to reduce their perception of risk. Perhaps some of your suppliers offer coupons or other trade promotions. Still others might send samples you can merchandise. Sombra, the manufacturer of Sore No More Natural Pain Relieving Gels, under-
stands your challenges. It also understands that it will be easiest on your administrative staff if your stores don’t have to handle complaints or refunds to dissatisfied, first-time customers. In order to increase the number of customers who try Sore No More products, Sombra introduced the 110% Money Back Guarantee. Now your customers will see no risk in buying a jar, tube or roll-on of Sore No More Natural Pain Relieving Gel for the first time. Even if your customer
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U n f o r t u n a t e l y, these ingredients lower the pH by increasing the acidity, which Food For Life feels often defeats the purpose of sprouting in the first place. To be a truly healthful product, Food For Life strongly believes in protecting the pH level of its sprouted grain bread, targeting a balanced pH. Because of its commitment to health, you can be assured that Ezekiel 4:9 bread is the pinnacle of nutrition. Sprouted to maximize nutrition and digestibility. By adding pure filtered water to certified organic grains, legumes and seeds, Food For Life is able to maximize nutrition and digestibility. Enzymes like amylase and protease are released naturally, helping to break down carbohydrates and protein, making them easier to digest while maximizing
nutrition and lowering the glycemic index. Food For Life’s slow baking technique means that every sprouted grain loaf is baked at lower temperatures to help preserve important natural vitamins and minerals and never “flash browned,” which can often trap active yeast. Loaded with both types of fiber: soluble and insoluble fiber. Food For Life Ezekiel 4:9 bread is loaded with both important natural soluble and insoluble fiber to help your body function at its peak. Aren’t all breads just carbs? Amazingly, Food For Life Ezekiel 4:9 breads often contain just as much protein as the stuff you put on your sandwich, from all plant-based sources. Ezekiel 4:9 bread is made with 100 percent organic ingredients. Your body and taste buds will know the difference!
Banana and Vazhakulam Pineapple, Lacha Saffron. The new single-serve containers come in 5.3ounce cups, which are perfect to take on-the-go. The convenient size makes them great for lunch boxes, picnics or any time you feel like having a healthy snack. “This year marks a milestone for the Desi Natural brand with the launch of new singleserve Dahi yogurts. Grounded in sound category dynamics and consumer insight, our new Indian-inspired single-serve yogurts are targeted to mainstream food explorers,” said LaPorta. “We are the first to serve this mar-
ket. Importantly, this is the first of several new product launches designed to fill this consumer gap.”
About RFG Dairy, LLC – Desi Natural Desi Natural Dahi has been the premier brand of Indian yogurt and paneer in the U.S. for over 19 years. Desi Natural produces high-quality, authentic, kosher certified dairy products made with natural and non-GMO ingredients. Desi Natural products are available nationwide.
For more information, call 516.293.5448 or go to www.desifreshfoods.com.
guests and elevate the entertaining experience and presentation of any charcuterie board. All varieties pair exceptionally well with specialty cheeses, fruits, artisanal breads and many other accompaniments. For added merchandising flexibility within the deli department or in other areas of the store, all varieties are shelf-stable and can be displayed outside of refrigeration in their retail ready display box or in-store baskets, and are also peggable.
To satisfy retailers and consumers looking for “better for you” alternatives, Black Kassel is also launching a 4-ounce AllNatural Charcuterie Trio. It offers three uncured salamis – Double Smoked, Spicy Hungarian and Black Peppercorn – which are minimally processed, contain no artificial ingredients, flavors or colors, no preservatives, no nitrites and nitrates added, and is made with pork raised with no added hormones.
For more information, go to www.black kassel.com.
finishes the whole jar, they can return the empty jar directly to Sombra for a refund of 110 percent of what they paid. Your staff need not take time to service the customer, your accounting system need not credit the customer and your inventory staff need not take time to receive a used jar to return to your distributor. Sombra will take care of everything, freeing your team to focus on revenue-generating activities. Each jar, tube and roll-on is labeled with a 110% Guarantee label. Dissatisfied cus-
tomers need only visit www.sorenomoreusa.com for instructions on returning the item. They must mail their receipt with the product to Sombra, which will send them a check. There is a limit of one refund per household. Take this opportunity to buy Sore No More Natural Pain Relieving Gel products for your store(s). More prospective customers will buy the product because they perceive no risk and your servicing and back office functions will save time and money because they won’t have to service returns.
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Seviroli Foods: Chef-Inspired, Artisan-Filled Pastas and Sauces An interview with Joseph Seviroli, Jr., Chief Executive Officer, Seviroli Foods.
GN: Seviroli Foods is a family owned and operated company. Tell our readers how the company started.
JS: We started as a small pastry shop in Queens, New York, in 1960. Making pasta, especially tortellini, was my father’s passion. He purchased equipment from Italy so he could start making pasta at our bakery, and that’s really where and how it all
started. Today, Seviroli Foods is the world’s largest frozen tortellini manufacturer.
GN: What items does Seviroli Foods offer?
JS: Seviroli offers a large portfolio of products including tortellini, ravioli, manicotti, stuffed shells, cavatelli, ready-to-eat meal kits, sauces and more. We also offer an extensive variety of fillings, shapes and styles to match each of our customer’s specific needs.
Increase Deli Sales with Souperb’s Plant-Based Soups Souperb has been enjoying strong, steady, triple-digit YOY growth due to its unique nature and commitment to maintaining its high standards. Souperb’s fresh, refrigerated soups are made with non-GMO and glutenfree ingredients, with low sodium and without any added sugar. Additionally, many of Souperb’s flavors tout plant-based, paleo and keto friendly attributes. With delicious, comforting flavors, a recognizable ingredient list and easy-to-read nutrition label, Souperb is at the forefront of clean and convenient refrigerated soups.
Offering exciting flavor combinations that are perfect for any time of year, Souperb’s premium, better-for-you soups are made using creative plant-based blends of nuts, herbs and spices. Flavor variety is an important element in any fresh soups line, and in total Souperb offers seven unique flavor varieties to choose from. These comforting, satisfying soups are sold in 24-ounce tubs (suggested retail price $7.99) in natural food stores like Whole Foods Market and Natural Grocers. They are typically found on the refrigerated shelves of prepared food or deli
Announcing the Launch of Woodridge Snacks By Drew Pawlan, Assistant Manager – Marketing, ALO Drink by SPI West Port, Inc.
Woodridge Snacks is going to market with five deliciously unusual product lines. The brand prides itself on its global sourcing of ingredients in a never-ending search for the best of the best. We find artisan farmers who value the earth that nourishes their crops. Woodridge Snacks insists on sustainability as an unseen ingredient in our snacks. Sa-
vory or sweet, we’ve got a sensible, eat-anytime snack for everyone.
Tempura Seaweed Chips A true taste sensation, these delicacies are dipped in a light batter and very gently fried to a delightful crisp. Forget potatoes. Discover the better chip. The Tempura Seaweed Chips product line is launching with three flavors: Hickory BBQ, Sea Salt and Sriracha.
Santini Foods Offers Organic Sweetened Condensed Milk Santini’s California Farms Sweetened Condensed Milk is manufactured in the U.S.A. using fresh milk for a fresh dairy flavor and milky white color. Its Sweetened Condensed Milk is kosher certified by the Orthodox Union, halal certified, Real California Milk certified, gluten-free, and select products are
also certified organic. Santini Foods has been producing sweetened condensed milk on the West Coast since 1995. It is a full line supplier of all types of sweetened condensed milks. Santini Foods is certified to make organic sweetened condensed milk and can produce rBST free
New Products from House of Webster House of Webster, a specialty food manufacturer based in Rogers, Arkansas, has been in the specialty food business since 1934. It offers a wide range of wholesale private label products including jams, jellies, preserves, pickled vegetables, salsas and mustards. House of Webster is a one-stop shop for retailers seeking a diverse private label food
program. With its niche small jar capabilities in the 1.5-ounce and 2.25-ounce sizes, House of Webster has positioned itself as a national player for retail gift packs and room serviceready condiments. Known for its classic mason jar packaging and quality ingredients that can’t be matched, House of Webster offers over 100
GN: Tell our readers about your manufacturing process.
JS: We have two state-ofthe art, SQF certified manufacturing facilities. Each houses authentic, Italianmade pasta equipment. We source only the highest grades of ingredients from a global base of suppliers, while maintaining stringent standards for all of the ingredients we select, such as 100% Hard Durum Semolina, eggs, hard cheeses and whole milk ricotta. Great ingredients, quality control and food safety are of utmost importance to us.
departments. Founder of Souperb, Joanna Terry, is dedicated to ensuring that Souperb is a trustworthy brand and is contributing to a healthy planet by using plantbased products, while making it easier to eat well and get the bounty of nutrients provided in vegetables. Souperb is proudly womenowned and women-run. Souperb understands today’s savvy and aware consumer. Those who seek food with honest, clean ingredients rather than fillers and preservatives; who look at labels for ingredients they can pronounce and easily understand. Consumers have increased awareness about clean labels and seek prod-
Mochi Rice Nuggets An Asian-fusion inspired snack, Woodridge Mochi Rice Nuggets are made with short grain, slightly sweet white rice baked to a satisfying crisp. Always baked. Never fried. Launching with two flavors, try Tom Yum flavor for the taste of the traditional Thai soup favorite. Teriyaki flavor features notes of soy sauce and sake with a hint of ginger. More flavors coming soon.
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GN: Are you introducing any new items?
JS: Always! Our R&D department, which consists of a full team of culinary-trained chefs, is hard at work developing a variety of ready-to-eat meal kits. We’re also expanding our pasta line to include items such as Burrata Cheese Ravioli, Sausage & Broccoli Ravioli, Shrimp & Roasted Garlic Ravioli and Crepe Manicotti, just to name a few.
For more information, go to www.seviroli.com, call 516.222.6220 or email customerservice@seviroli.com.
ucts with transparency, and demand those products also be readily available and easy to prepare. Following the growth of convenience foods, readyto-eat soups are in demand as consumers are faced with low time availability for food preparation, and seek fresh and readily available options. Today’s timestarved and busy families are looking out for healthy and quick options. Souperb satisfies with its comforting and convenient betterfor-you soups.
For more information, go to www.souperb soup.com, call 415.685.8508 or email info@souperbsoup.com.
your pick of chewy ginger wrapped with the slightly nutty flavor of roasted Sesame Seed, or try the nutrient-filled Chia Seed wrapped chewy ginger. Both are delicious, anytime snacks.
In addition, Sticky Rice Chips are handmade with whole grain rice popped to an airy crisp and seasoned to perfection in four flavors. Vacuum-fried Crunchy Fruit Chips are superbly crispy fruits with natural intensity in three wonderful flavors.
Ginger Chews Woodridge Ginger Chews will delight fans of ginger. Enjoy the tanginess of fresh cut ginger. Launching with two flavors, take
For more information, go to www.alodrink.com, call 800.223.4438 or email info@alodrink.com.
sweetened condensed milk for customers requiring it. It offers sweetened condensed milk in every size container, ranging from the small 14 ounce can you see at your local grocery store to 40,000 pound tanker trucks to fit the needs of industrial users.
organic food in their diet without sacrificing flavor or quality. Formulated to do just that, California Farms Organic Sweetened Condensed Milk is Santini Foods’ most assertive step forward towards a more health-conscious future.
Organic Sweetened Condensed Milk California Farms Organic Sweetened Condensed Milk is the perfect choice for anyone wanting to increase the amount of
Organic Evaporated Milk A timeless baking staple, creamy California Farms Evaporated Milk is just the ingredient to make a recipe for any occasion extra special.
items in stock and ready to ship. Freight is included with a minimum order of 13 cases, mix and match. You will be assigned a dedicated Customer Service Representative to help you through the on boarding process. For a small fee, just send a digital file of your established logo or artwork and House of Webster’s in-house graphic artists can build a label to your approval. It’s that easy. New for 2020, House of Webster intro-
duces six new exciting salsa flavors: Fire Roasted, Habanero, Ghost Pepper, Scorpion Pepper, Avacado Tomatillo and Serrano Pepper. It has turned up the heat and these items are immediately available for private label. Be sure to check out House of Webster’s new Candied Jalapenos. This classic southern recipe is like no other and will be a staple for years to come. Try it over cream cheese as an appetizer or add it to your next barbecue sandwich.
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Pocasville’s All Natural Vacuum Dried Crunchy Dragon Fruit Chip Looking for a low-fat, low-calorie superfood to add to your diet? Pocasville’s 100 percent natural Dried Dragon Fruit Chips may be just the thing! Dragon fruit helps boost the immune system, supports digestion and may aid in cancer prevention. Market experts assure that dragon fruit chips will be one of the healthy and trendy products in the market. Likewise, dragon
fruit has an excellent reputation among the big chains, as well as from individual customers. Pocas added some crunch to this popular superfood. Pocasville’s premium crunchy dragon fruit chips are 100 percent natural vacuum dried dragon fruit from Phan Thiet, Vietnam, which is considered the land of the dragon fruit.
Market of Choice Places Community at the Core By Greg Gonzales
Market of Choice lives up to its name with the range of products on its shelves, and shoppers coming into any of the 10 stores scattered around Oregon from Portland in the northwest to Bend in the southeast feel as if they’ve been transported somewhere that connects them to the food, their lifestyle and their community, says Beth McDonald, Vice President of Perishable Product and Merchandise. “And that’s intentional on our part,” she adds. Choice isn’t just part of the name, it’s the ethic of the stores, down to how they organize products.
“You don’t have to go to a specific section of the store to find your natural or organic products,” said Amy Delaney, Manager of Customer Experience. “It’s all there on the shelves, right next to the conventional products, which gives the customer the choice to choose what they like. Whether they want organic pasta or Kraft mac and cheese, both are right there next to each other, for them to have the choice.” Among the offerings are from-scratch bakeries in each of the 10 stores. “We are one of the few places that does custom cakes from scratch, whether that’s a first birthday or a wedding or any kind of special event,” Mc-
DORVAL Introduces GNAW CHOCOLATE GNAW CHOCOLATE LTD. is the newest line to join the DORVAL portfolio. The GNAW CHOCOLATE bars are handcrafted in England in small batches and feature quirky, eye catching packaging, high quality ingredients sourced locally and from around the world and contain no artificial colors or flavors. “We were approached by GNAW, who were looking for U.S. distribution of their unique handcrafted chocolate bars. From the
moment we saw and tasted their line, and learned about their passion for creating fun, playful chocolates, we felt that their premium bars belonged on the shelves. We’ve seen demand continue to grow for artisanal chocolate with socially responsible, sustainable sourcing,” says Roberta Cappel, Dorval’s President. GNAW prides itself on being an ethical company, sourcing cocoa only from farms in Brazil and West Africa and its factory is powered by 100 percent renewable
A New Recipe for Champignon Bavaria is well known for its beer and wurst, but many may be surprised to know that cheese is also one of its culinary delights. Bavaria, a southern state of Germany, has a long history and tradition of cheesemaking and is home to Käserei Champignon. This family-owned cheese producer was founded over 100 years ago and is named after the flavor profile of the first cheese it ever produced – a Camembert that had a distinct mushroom aroma and earthy flavor, begetting the name Champignon. The company is still located in the Allgäu, a region of green pastures lined by the Alps, and continues to source its milk only from regional farms.
Over the years, Käserei Champignon has expanded its cheese production beyond Camembert, creating a variety of unique specialty cheeses while still retaining the same quality in milk and craftsmanship. “Many of our cheesemakers have been trained in traditional methods handed down for generations but also in innovative technologies,” says Flynne Wiley, Chief Executive Officer of Champignon North America, the exclusive importer of Käserei Champignon products in the U.S. “We think of our cheesemakers of having one foot in tradition and one in innovation. We look back for the expertise of the past but also look forward and make sure we
White Coffee Introduces NIWRI White Coffee Corporation, a Long Island City coffee importer and roaster, is proud to introduce the latest addition to its coffee portfolio: NIWRI Cold Brew Cascara. NIWRI is a unique beverage cold brewed
from green tea and coffee cherries, also known as cascara. Cascara, which means “husk” or “skin” in Spanish, is the dried skins of the coffee cherries. These pulped skins are collected after the seeds (i.e. cof-
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This delicious and nutritional snack is all natural, nonGMO verified, gluten free and kosher. There is no cooking oil, no cholesterol, no preservatives, no trans fat and no added sugar, but it is still tasty! It is available with white and red flesh. Pocas International Corp is passionate about delivering premium healthy beverages and specialty foods to its customers with only top-quality products. The mission of Pocas is to study
For more information, go to www.pocas.com or call 201.941.7900. Follow the company on Instagram and Facebook.
Donald said. “Our customers know they have that choice to come to our store and have that service in our perishables department.” Custom, personalized service is crucial to the store experience, said Marcus Purkapile, Kitchen Manager at the flagship Eugene store. He said the quality and local products the stores provide require a high level of salesmanship and ample time to help customers find exactly what they want. That, he said, builds a loyal customer base. “A lot of people, we know by name. They come in every day,” Purkapile said, adding that some of their customers grew up shopping there as kids. “We get a lot of regular customers. A lot of the time, when people are walking up – especially in the mornings – we’re already starting to put their order together. We know exactly what they want.” The bakeries are completely open, so
shoppers coming into the store can see the bakers at work, according to Vicky Anderson, Bakery Manager at the flagship location in Eugene, Oregon. “When they come in, they see 15 busy bees back there working, everybody doing their jobs. It brings that fresh in-house reality to them, and they really get a kick out of that.” Constant communication with the customer base helps set the store apart, Anderson said. “Market of Choice allows each store to adjust to their communities,” she said. “It’s not as if every store has to be exactly alike; we have the freedom to come up with new ideas.... When people want special, they come to Market of Choice. When they want to create that wow factor, they come to Market of Choice. If it’s an occasion that really matters, and they want the best, they come to us.”
energy. GNAW is an innovative premium chocolate brand with exciting and imaginative flavors such as Bananas Foster, Rocky Road, Peanut Butter, Snowberry Crunch, Mint Choc Chip and Crystallized Ginger. They are also GMO-free. All bars are 3.5 ounces and are packed in 10-count or 12count shelf ready displays depending on the flavor. Each carton is packed 6x12ct. The new GNAW line is available now.
About Dorval Trading Co., Ltd. Dorval Trading Co., Ltd., is an importer of an extensive range of high-quality confectionery products from major manufacturers around the world. Dorval has grown into a significant presence in the confectionery and specialty distribution arena. Dorval celebrated its 50th anniversary in business in 2016.
always innovate.” The company’s most recent development is a creamier recipe for its namesake cheese Champignon Mushroom. This triple cream soft-ripened cheese has a bloomy rind and wonderfully creamy texture with buttery notes and an earthy aroma from the champignon mushrooms. These mushrooms are similar to button mushrooms in the U.S. and have a mild flavor profile. “Our Champignon Mushroom cheese is distinct from other soft ripened cheeses in that it has an exquisite mouthfeel and a mild fee beans) have been removed from the cherries. While it can’t be defined as strictly coffee or tea but rather something in the middle, NIWRI does derive from the coffee plant. Specifically, cascara is a product of the fruit of the coffee tree. Since NIWRI is a cascara-based drink, you can expect a sweet, fruity taste with
global market trends of healthy foods and beverages on behalf of its customers and supply the best healthy products to its valued customers with the lowest price possible.
For more information, call 800.367.8252, email info@dorvaltrading.com or go to www.dorvaltrading.com. flavor that is very approachable,” Wiley notes. “It is not overpowering in the notes of mushroom as some other mushroom or truffle cheeses can be – it is wonderfully balanced in flavor and texture.” The cheese is made with milk sourced only from Bavarian farms – a hallmark of Champignon cheeses – and is gluten-free and lactose-free due to the cheese’s natural ripening process. Champignon Mushroom is available at retailers nationwide.
For more information, www.champignon-usa.com.
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notes of rose hip and hibiscus. The essence is like a superb blend of fruits including raspberry, currant, cranberry and cherry.
For more information, call 718.204.7900 or 800.221.0140, go to www.whitecoffee.com or email info@whitecoffee.com.
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Regatta Craft Mixers Sets Sail in Retail Channel Waters By Lorrie Baumann
Regatta Craft Mixers has launched a retail line of premium cocktail mixers with a brand that already has customers behind the bars in 25 states across the country. The line, now packaged in carefully designed cans illustrating the brand’s aspirational appeal, has a following wind from consumers who favor clean ingredients and complex flavors, even when they’re indulging. “Gone are the days, in my opinion, of people ordering generic cocktails with low-end mixers. The spirit game has elevated significantly in the last 10 years toward premium and premium-plus spirits. For the most part, the mixer side hasn’t evolved that much, and is just now catching up,” said Sam Zarou, Regatta Craft Mixer’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re looking to complement the trend on the spirit side by offering a premium experience to the consumer from start to finish.” When Stan Rottell founded Regatta Craft Mixers in 2006, he just wanted to make a
classic Bermuda stone ginger beer, with a balanced flavor that was a little more citrusforward than a spicier Jamaican-style ginger beer. He built a business around the beverage that’s now Regatta Craft Mixers’ Classic Bermuda Stone Ginger Beer, which has become popular with bartenders, especially those along the East Coast, for its small batch quality and natural ingredients. Zarou and his partners bought the thriving company in 2016 with the intention of expanding the product line and going deeper into the retail channel. To accomplish this, they would build on the market strength of consumers who had already been introduced to Regatta by their favorite bartenders and who were receptive to the idea that they could duplicate their restaurant-quality experiences in their own homes. Zarou’s first extension to the line was Light Ginger Beer. It’s the same flavor as the brand’s flagship product except that it’s sweetened with organic blue agave rather than cane sugar. “Our Light Ginger Beer is
New Hot Sauce Brings Flavor of Brazil to U.S. Market Légal (pronounced Lay-Gal) is launching its new Brazilian hot sauce in the U.S. market. Légal Hot Sauce, owned by Homer Foods LLC and based in Hollywood, Florida, is made from a special recipe that incorporates the Brazilian malagueta pepper, which has been passed down for generations, and is now available for the first time in the U.S. With its uniquely Brazilian flavor, Légal is well-poised to shake up the U.S. hot sauce market, which has already been on fire over the last few years, according to its makers.
“We wanted to introduce a taste of Brazilian heritage to the U.S. market, and to bring this recipe to U.S. consumers for the first time,” said Gabriela Neves, co-Founder of Légal. “We’re really looking to spice up the hot sauce market with our unique taste.” The malagueta pepper, discovered by the Portuguese while exploring modern-day Brazil, is the key ingredient in Légal Hot Sauce. The pepper has been used for thousands of years by the natives for medicinal purposes and has also been considered a sign
Altramed Products Formulated for Pets, Too Since 1996, Altramed® Health Products Inc. (AHP) located in Quebec, Canada, has been a distributor of ESSIAC® products in North America. To this day, the company’s aim is to create the ultimate client experience. AHP works closely with all retailers and distributors and takes pride in excellent communications, account management and executive
abilities in order to offer clients a better way of purchasing. ESSIAC is an herbal formula that has been available since 1922. The formula was given to nurse Rene Caisse from a Canadian Ojibwa Indian. Nurse Caisse prepared her original herbal formula into an herbal tea named ESSIAC, which is her last name
Lancaster Local A2A2 Organic Milk Swiss Villa is pleased to announce the offering of Lancaster Local A2A2 organic cream line of milk. This non-homogenized milk presents the cream of the crop! A2A2 is nothing new – just old-fashioned milk values without the A12 genetic mutation prevailing in American dairy products. Some say it makes a world of difference to them in their dairy consumption. But look at what this new innovation has to offer! No light damage to this A2A2 organic milk! Noluma has partnered with the company to enable you to enjoy the truly
fresh flavor of milk for the entire shelf life of the milk. Beyond that, there is no compromising the vitamins in this naturally grass-fed, nutrient-dense organic milk. Find the Noluma certification on the front panel of Lancaster Local milk to ensure you are getting the best. You may choose Lancaster Local A2A2 organic milk in regular cream line whole milk, low fat non-homogenized milk or delicious chocolate whole milk that is pasteurized but not homogenized. Probiotics in real milk with 100 percent A2A2 protein come in Lancaster Local’s
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that kind of transparency.” Along with the retail launch comes the necessity of scaling up the enterprise to accommodate the new market. Zarou says the company is well prepared to do that without compromising product quality. The distribution network is in place, and marketing and sales are tooled up and ready. Ingredient suppliers are ready to deliver. “It’s a very well capitalized business with a very smart board that is well resourced....This is not a spray-and-pray model. Everything we do has to make sense,” Zarou said. “We have secured the ability to produce at scale with favorable economics for the company for the foreseeable future.... We’re really focused on the best ingredients; we’re a premium craft mixer. The second we stop focusing on that, why do we exist? The ingredients are uncompromisable – it’s just never on the chopping block.”
50 calories and 13 grams of sugar compared to 120 calories and 30 grams of sugar. It’s just incredible refreshment, but it’s also good for somebody that’s looking for a lighter-bodied, lighter-calorie, just overall lighter experience,” Zarou said. Light Ginger Beer has been followed by Royal Oak Ginger Ale, Dry Citrus Sparkling Tonic and Pacific Sea Salt Club Soda. The Dry Citrus Sparkling Tonic brings out the botanicals of any gin and also pairs well with vodka, tequila or any rum. Royal Oak Ginger Ale is smooth and sweet with oak barrel and ginger flavors. It pairs well with bourbon as well as vodka, gin and tequila. Pacific Sea Salt Club Soda is a zero-calorie option with the balance of flavor and carbonation to make a great gin and soda or vodka and soda. All of the mixers are non-GMO. “The new line is resonating with its packaging and graphics, flavor profiles, and the Non-GMO Project verification,” Zarou said. “As consumers become more interested and educated on what’s inside the products they are drinking, I think they will eventually demand
For more information, visit www.regatta craftmixers.com.
of good luck. Legend has it that when explorers came across the malagueta plant, gold was discovered nearby shortly thereafter. For years, the plant was used to season food in local recipes, but it wasn’t until a local village woman started to create a sauce using the malagueta chile that the precursor to Légal was born. The name “Légal” means “cool” in Portuguese and conveys the carefree lifestyle of the Brazilian people, coupled with their spice and zest for fun. “Our recipe has been adapted from one
passed down through generations, and uses fresh, all-natural ingredients to develop that uniquely Brazilian kick,” said co-Founder Michael Fernandez. “Légal really does combine the spiciness of two worlds, hot sauce and Brazil, and goes well with almost any dish.” Légal Hot Sauce is available for purchase at www.legalhotsauce.com, at all Heatonist and Fairway Market stores throughout New York City and online at Heatonist and Amazon. The sauce retails for $8.99/bottle.
spelled backwards. ESSIAC is sold in powder, liquid and capsule formulas. The ESSIAC powder will need to be brewed and prepared the old fashioned way. The herbs in ESSIAC are grown specifically for ESSIAC from Canada and are harvested at peak times in order to ensure maximum botanical potency. ESSIAC for Pets is also made from Nurse Rene Caisse’s original proprietary herbal formula, which contains a quality blend of pre-
mium burdock root, sheep sorrel, Indian rhubarb and slippery elm. ESSIAC for Pets is available in a convenient vegetable capsule.
For more information, go to www.essiac.info or call 888.900.2299.
drinkable yogurt. Real strawberries, blueberries and red raspberries flavor some offerings, while the plain yogurt presents itself without any added sugars or flavors. Half pints and pints fit the needs of individual servings. The plain can be purchased in quarts and half gallons as well, to provide the base for the consumer’s own blends of fruits and desired sweeteners. Lancaster Local organic A2A2 raw milk cheeses deserve strong consideration for any serious cheese display. Cheddar cheese with 100 percent A2A2 organic milk will call out to the dairy-intolerant crowd for reconsideration. Smoked cheddar, and a variety of flavors of herbs and spices, further whet the
appetite. Stay tuned for Colby, Gouda, Hot Pepper Pack and the Speckled Herb. Small farms in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, find markets for their milk via Lancaster Local. The company defines small as less than 65 milking cows per herd. Each farm must comply with soil enrichment and preservation programs. Animal care and healthful farming practices find regulation by the coop, Lancaster ECO (Enhance Community Organics). Sustainability requirements establish fair prices to the farmers, and so without apology, the company presents you with Lancaster Local organic A2A2 milk in a sustainable manner. Enjoy, and enjoy it with true freshness!
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Soulfully Seasoned Beans on the Table in a Flash By Lorrie Baumann
A Dozen Cousins offers ready-to-eat bean dishes seasoned with the Creole, Caribbean and Latin American flavors of the ethnically diverse Brooklyn neighborhood that brand Founder Ibraheem Basir grew up in. “Food was a joyful, cultural experience,” he says of that neighborhood. “I grew up in a Black and Brown melting pot. I can remember eating jerk chicken, empanadas, black-eyed peas. It was a really interesting mix of flavors that I wanted to bring to life with this brand.” Coming from a background as a brand manager for a natural foods manufacturer,
where he fell in love with the ethos of healthy eating and responsible business practices, Basir has founded his own line with a vision of eventually extending it with other dishes created at the intersection of healthy food, convenience and bold flavor. “Beans is just first. Dinnertime is such a joyous time for people, and you want to put something healthy on the table for your family or for your loved ones. You want, in some cases, to share cultural experiences with the people that you love. But, at the same time, usually people have, like, 20 minutes to prepare dinner each night,” he said. “There’s always this tension between wanting to prepare some-
New Coffee Creamers Appeal to the Dairy-Cautious By Lorrie Baumann
Austin, Texas-based Picnik is launching from its foodservice origins into the retail market with a line of creamers designed to provide those with concerns about dairy products to enjoy a creamy coffee again. The launch, helmed by consumer packaged goods veteran Andy Malloy, includes DairyFree Collagen and Vegan Creamers along with a fresh look for the line, which also includes Picnik’s unsweetened Original Creamer. All Picnik Creamers are keto-certified, Non-GMO Project Verified, and contain zero sugar or net carbohydrates. Like Picnik’s Original Creamer, the two new options are unsweetened, powered by MCT [mediumchain triglycerides] oil for an energy and brain boost, and have a similar flavor profile to half-and-half. “This allows people to indulge in a way that people with dietary re-
strictions can’t otherwise do,” Malloy said. “Many of Picnik’s values fall into that better-for-you category that I’m passionate about.” The Picnik’s new Vegan Creamer is made with coconut cream, cashew milk and MCT oil for a silky dairy-free creamer that’s paleofriendly and keto-certified. The Picnik’s new Collagen Creamer features grass-fed collagen and rich cashew cream to offer an added boost for hair, skin, gut and joints. It’s paleofriendly and keto-certified. The products, like the Picnik’s Original Creamer, are now offered in vibrant and modern packaging that puts a spotlight on the ingredients that appeal to paleo-, ketoand other nutrition-conscious shoppers while creating a strong and attractive brand block on shelf. The recipes for the products were developed by brand Founder Naomi Seifter, who opened Picnik in a food trailer made from a repurposed shipping container in
Rigoni di Asiago Launches New Nocciolata Bianca Hazelnut Spread Rigoni di Asiago, a 96-year-old familyowned Italian foods brand, has launched its newest organic spread, Nocciolata Bianca. The all-hazelnut flavor joins Rigoni di Asiago’s popular Nocciolata range of hazelnut and cocoa spreads, including its classic and dairy free offerings. Born in 2008 from a traditional Italian pastry recipe, Nocciolata is a range of organic sweet spreads made from the finest ingredi-
ents for a better-for-you hazelnut spread alternative without palm oil. Nocciolata Bianca is the only product in the range to not contain cocoa. It’s unique and intense hazelnut flavor is ideal on toast or in desserts for a natural snack. Meeting the needs of the modern food consumer, Nocciolata Bianca offers an indulgence with health benefits. Made with more hazelnuts than other spreads, Bianca is
Fresh Origins Mini Herb, Flower, & Fruit Crystals Fresh Origins’ Mini Herb, Flower, & Fruit Crystals® are the most innovative choice for all mixologists, pastry chefs and tea/coffee enthusiasts. Mini Crystals are fine granules of flavored sugar that make the perfect glass rimmers and desserts, lattes and foam tea dusters. Unlike other glass rimmers, Fresh Origins Mini Crystals are all-natural with authentic
flavors. They are made with whole flowers, herbs or fruit that are hand harvested at the peak of freshness and combined with pure cane sugar. Their vibrant colors and flavors have no added preservatives, coloring or flavoring. Mini Crystals are a clean-label product and kosher certified. They provide fantastic crunchy textures and prominent flavors to any drink recipe or dessert.
thing that’s wholesome and h i g h - q u a l i t y, but to do it really quickly. We feel like, as a brand, that’s a spot where we can help out.” Another of Basir’s visions was to offer healthy natural food products that will appeal to those outside the traditional market for natural foods. He notes that people of color have been disproportionately affected by a public health epidemic of nutrition-related illnesses that could be mitigated by a diet that includes a wide variety of less processed options. In pursuit of his brand’s mission, the company offers an annual grant and volunteer support to non-profit agencies working
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to eliminate socio-economic health disparities in the U.S. The A Dozen Cousins line, named after his daughter and her 11 cousins, curincludes three rently products: Cuban Black Beans, Mexican Cowboy Beans and Trini Chickpea Curry. “They’re ready-to-eat beans, fully cooked and seasoned, according to those traditions from Black and Latino recipes,” Basir said. They’re all cooked with avocado oil, real vegetables and spices. They’re packaged in pouches that tell the story of the ingredients and their flavors, and they’re designed to stand out on the shelf. Each pouch contains 10 ounces and will serve two. Visit www.adozencousins.com to learn more.
Austin in 2013. From her food trailer, she offered grab-and-go lunch items along with the butter coffee that developed a cult following for her the brand. In 2016, she opened her first brickand-mortar cafe full-service restaurant in Austin. “My initial reaction was a bit of awe because it was extremely crowded and busy, and you could tell that people just loved being there,” Malloy said of his first visit to the cafe. “It has healthy food that tasted amazing.” Seifter expanded with a second food trailer and developed her first ready-todrink coffee in 2017. Malloy joined the brand just this year after a career that included 20 many years with Frito-Lay and, most recently, as chief executive officer of Hail Merry. He’s made a specialty of growing brands in the CPG industry and has partnered with Seifter on this end of the business. “Naomi created Picnik after a lifechanging difference in what the fats did for her physical health and mental clarity. Now
they’re getting back to where they started with functionality for physical and baking needs,” he said. “She is the gatekeeper to innovation and built all the recipes. We have a chef in our restaurant who helps as well, but the making of our products comes through her and her physical health and mental clarity.” “I created Picnik after discovering the lifechanging difference that high-quality fats and other functional ingredients could have on physical health and mental clarity,” Seifter said. “Based on the response we received to our Original Creamer, we knew we wanted to expand the line so it was more inclusive of all dietary needs. Inclusiveness is a core value we live by, so I’ve worked hard to create our new offerings keeping in mind consumers who are vegan or prefer plantbased food as well as the millions out there who are already putting collagen in their coffee daily.”
gluten-free and high in protein with 45 percent less sugar than the average hazelnut spread on the market. “For Rigoni di Asiago, organic production has always been the Rigoni family’s number one mission,” said Andrea Rigoni, Chief Executive Officer of Rigoni di Asiago. “Our company aims to preserve and maintain the flavors of the past, respect the environment, and uphold a strong relationship with its local region and traditions. Nocciolata Bianca has been carefully created to fit these values.” Founded in 1923, Rigoni di Asiago is a
family-owned and operated company from Italy and leader in the organic honey and organic fruit spread market. Located in Altopiano di Asiago, a mountain plateau in northern Italy, the company was one of the first in Europe to turn to organic farming in the 1990s and merit the Certified Organic label. The company’s production facilities operate with low power consumption, using renewable sources such as wind while re-circulating its own water supply after treatment and purification.
There are ten available flavors: Basil, Cilantro, Cranberry, Fennel, Ginger, Habanero, Hibiscus, Mint, Pumpkin Spice and Rose. Just like the original Herb, Flower, & Fruit Crystals® but with a finer granule, these unique Mini Crystals are perfect for inspiring forward-thinking mixologists. The Mini Crystals can even be tossed into a cocktail and used as a flavorful ingredient and a splash of color. They look stunning at the bottom of the glass and stay semi-crunchy to be savored in the
For more information, .picnikaustin.com.
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last sip. Recommendations: Mini Mint Crystals are the perfect glass rimmer for signature mojitos. Rim an exotic citrus cocktail with the bright yellow Mini Fennel Crystals. Savory and sweet Mini Basil Crystals pair well with strawberry and lemon drinks. Vibrant pink Mini Rose Crystals are a beautiful and romantic glass rimmer for champagne cocktails.
For more information, go to www .freshorigins.com.
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A Righteous Salty Snack with Crunch By Lorrie Baumann
Bubba’s Fine Foods offers a line of snack mixes for customers who love the salt and crunch of the snack foods they grew up eating but who’ve gone grain-free in adulthood. Bubba’s Fine Foods Grain Free Snack Mixes were invented by gourmet chef Jared Menzel, who co-founded the company along with Jeff Schmidgall, a former CrossFit trainer and health coach. “We couldn’t find salty, crunchy snacks that fit our new diet criteria,” Schmidgall said. “If the food had the right ingredients, it didn’t taste good. If it tasted good, it just had too many ultraprocessed ingredients.” The two men are brothers-in-law and became business partners in 2014 after Menzel – nicknamed Bubba as a child – showed up at a family vacation with a grain-free snack mix he’d put together so he could nosh without throwing his blood sugar out of whack. “Both of us had started changing our diets toward more whole foods, less processing, less sugar,” Schmidgall said. “Jared ended up making this snack mix from banana chips and
nuts with nothing but kitchen pantry ingredients, and it tasted great and had the crunch.” At that point, neither of the men had any experience at all in bringing a food product to the retail market – they just knew they were onto something that people like themselves needed and the market wasn’t offering. “We started Googling all the basics on how do you legally start producing a packaged food product for sale. That same morning we were brainstorming all of this,” Schmidgall said. “One month later, we’d produced 150 packages of this grain-free snack mix.” The first sales for the product came through the company’s website, but it wasn’t long before a manager at Hy-Vee came to them saying the store was getting customer requests for the product, and would they like to put it on shelves? “That was our first experience with supermarkets was this little health food division of Hy-Vee,” Schmidgall said. “They were just really great partners for us to sort of grow into and learn the ropes.” Shortly after the two started the company, Schmidgall relocated from Iowa to the Boul-
New Campaign Sheds Light on Beef Animal Care Standards Consumers will soon learn about the steps beef farmers and ranchers take to care for their animals and to produce high quality beef in a new promotion and advertising campaign about the Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program. BQA trains farmers and ranchers on best practices and cattle management techniques to ensure their animals and the environment are cared for within a standard set of guidelines. The program began 30 years ago, and today more than 85 percent of beef produced in the U.S. comes from a farmer or rancher who has been BQA certified. The formally producer-facing BQA program, will now be introduced to consumers via a campaign designed to meet their desire to learn more about how beef is produced. The integrated marketing and communication campaign includes a new video from Beef. It’s What’s for Dinner. that brings the BQA program to life by highlighting how
cattle farmers and ranchers across the country raise cattle under BQA guidelines. The video will be used in marketing efforts and is available to consumers on the new BQA section of BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com. Consumers will also be able to learn more about BQA through interactive “BQ&A” Instagram stories addressing common questions about how cattle are raised. The video, website and social activations provide consumers with an overview of the BQA program and the ongoing commitment of cattle farmers and ranchers to caring for their animals and providing the safest and highest quality beef possible. “According to market research, the majority of consumers say they consider how and where their food is raised when making a meal decision,” said Josh White, Executive Director of Producer Education at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, a contractor to the Beef Checkoff. “The BQA
A Dutch Masterpiece Announces Brand Redesign The classic but unique A Dutch Masterpiece is a collection of four premium mature cheeses that have won excellence awards around the world, including overall World Champion at the World Championship Cheese Contest in Madison, Wisconsin, for both Rembrandt (2004) and Vermeer (2012). Thanks to the exclusive recipes and a commitment to the art of traditional Dutch cheesemaking, A Dutch Masterpiece produces premium cheese in a classic, traditional Dutch way and ensures that every Dutch Masterpiece cheese delivers a taste experience like no other. A Dutch Masterpiece varieties are works of art, with each variety named after a great
Dutch artist. Each cheese has its own unique recipe and ripening process. This results in a distinctive and refined texture, taste and flavor. The packaging redesign, launching during the first half of 2020, will help make the award-winning collection more accessible to consumers. Distinctive in flavor like their artists, the new brand identity and package design showcases the distinctive features of each painter, their formative work, and the unique age and tasting notes of each of the awarding winning cheeses in the masterpiece collection. A Dutch Masterpiece collection of four premium mature cheeses is available in both wheels and wedges.
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der, Colorado, area, where he found a community with the infrastructure to support the natural foods industry. The company relocated its operations to Loveland, not far outside Boulder, in 2016. Freed from the constraints imposed by the restaurant kitchen that Menzel had been able to borrow after hours, production of the snack mix started in earnest. In the five years since Menzel came up with that first snack mix, now known as Bubba’s Fine Foods Original Savory Grain Free Snack Mix, the company’s product range has grown to include several new flavors of snack mixes and then several flavors of UnGranola. The most recent addition to the range is ‘Nana Chips, which is the snack mix without the nuts. Righteous Ranch is one of the most popular flavors of the snack mix. “If you look at the ingredients of a lot of ranch flavors of anything, the ingredient deck gets a bit processed. What makes ours righteous is that the ingredient deck is just spices from your kitchen pantry, dairy-free as well for people
For more information, visit www.bubbas foods.com.
program offers consumers assurance that there are consistent animal care standards in place across the beef industry. BQA exemplifies what beef farmers and ranchers have always cared about – a commitment to caring for their animals and providing families with the safest and highest-quality beef possible, and we look forward to introducing this important program to consumers.” The foundation of BQA is a set of educational resources promoting animal care practices that are based in science and align with governmental regulations. These resources are reviewed by an expert advisory group consisting of farmers and ranchers, veterinarians and animal scientists who meet quarterly to evaluate the program, discuss trending topics, review the latest research and make recommended changes or updates, as needed. The BQA program specifically addresses and provides training on cattle handling, animal health, animal nutrition and transportation, among others. “With the vast majority of the beef supply in the U.S. today coming from a BQA certified farmer or rancher, and many packing plants and restaurant chains
setting BQA requirements, consumers should have the utmost confidence in the beef they consume and purchase both at restaurants and supermarkets,” White said. Cattle farmers and ranchers can become BQA certified by either attending a classroom course taught by a network of hundreds of state BQA coordinators and trainers or by completing a series of robust online courses. Certification is good for three years, after which time farmers and ranchers must become re-certified to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and are trained on the latest BQA guidelines. Not only does the BQA program provide guidelines for proper animal care and welfare, these management guidelines also result in the production of higher quality beef. Today, the beef industry is producing more high-quality beef today than ever before, with more than 80 percent of beef grading the highest available USDA quality grades of Prime or Choice. For more information about the BQA program and the high-quality beef produced today by U.S. cattle farmers and ranchers, visit www.beefitswhatsfordinner.com.
Rembrandt: Traditionally ripened for one year, this award-winning Extra Aged Dutch Cheese has a firm texture, a robust flavor and an exceptional taste. Vincent: Where Gouda meets Parmesan, this rich, sweet tasting, fully ripened Dutch Cheese releases pleasant characteristic bursts of flavor with every bite. Frans Hals: A rich aged Dutch goat cheese that is naturally matured up to six months. Frans Hals is made from 100 percent goat’s milk to create a unique full-bodied taste and delicate aroma. Vermeer: Traditionally ripened for six months, this award-winning aged Dutch Gouda cheese has a delicate fruity taste with a delightful flavor.
Of course, this work of art is created by the biggest producer of Dutch Cheese in the world, FrieslandCampina. FrieslandCampina Consumer Dairy US, based in Paramus, New Jersey, is the world’s largest producer of Gouda and Dutch cheeses and one of the largest importers of specialty cheeses to the United States. FrieslandCampina’s rich portfolio includes over a dozen cheese brands, including UK brands Wyke Farms® and Organic Kingdom® and Dutch made Kroon ®, Melkbus®, Parrano®, GayoAzul®, Frico® and A Dutch Masterpiece®. FrieslandCampina is a company rich in heritage, with deep roots in Dutch culture, and a history of selling products across the globe for a century and serving U.S. consumers for over 50 years.
who have problems with that allergen,” Schmidgall said. Like all of the company’s products, the Righteous Ranch Snack Mix is grain free, gluten free, Paleo, non-GMO and kosher, with no refined sugar, no soy and no dairy. “The big trick that we’re pulling off is naughty taste but with super-simple ingredients, and it’s what sets us apart from almost all the other salty snack producers,” Schmidgall said. The Bubba’s Fine Foods Snack Mixes are packed in 4-ounce bags that retail for $4.29. ‘Nana Chips packages are 2.7 ounces retailing for $2.99, and UnGranola, recently named the top Paleo granola by the readers of Paleo magazine, is packaged in 6-ounce bags that retail for $6.29. The products are distributed nationally, with the greatest density now in Colorado, Texas and California. They’re generally sold in the natural channel and in conventional grocers with a strong natural foods presence.
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Wild Planet Foods Releases Tuna in Glass Jars Wild Planet Foods, the leading provider of sustainable seafood, is expanding its line of ultra-premium wild tuna with the release of its new Skipjack Wild Tuna in Pure Olive Oil and Petite Tonno Wild Tuna in Pure Olive Oil. This is the company’s first-ever Petite Tonno offering. Hand-packed in pure olive oil, these solid
fillets of tuna can be served atop salad, in a favorite pasta dish or in a sandwich for a flavor-packed treat. At 170 calories per 3ounce serving for the Petite Tonno and 200 calories per 3-ounce serving for the Skipjack, these nutrient-rich items feature 22 grams and 20 grams of protein respectively. Both new products are gluten free and cer-
Bono Extra-Virgin Olive Oils Offer Quality, Transparency By Lorrie Baumann
Bono’s premium Sicilian extra-virgin olive oils represent some of the most traceable on the market. At least for now, those oils are not subject to tariffs on a wide variety of other European food products, including the extra virgin olive oil coming onto the market now from Bono’s new production facility in Spain. In addition, the company also operates an oil factory in Tunisia, and that oil also is not subject to tariffs. Bono USA is the American satellite of the vertically integrated producer and trader of extra-virgin olive oil producer Bonolio. It’s been operating in the U.S. since 2015 under the leadership of Salvatore Russo-Tiesi, General Manager and President of the U.S. office. “Since then, we’ve been having great success in this country, both in private label
and with the brand,” he said. In those four years, Russo-Tiesi has taken the U.S. brand presence for Bono to distribution in all 50 states. The brand is now sold at more than 5,000 locations across the country. The product lines offered in the U.S. include Mediterranean Extra Virgin Olive Oil, produced in Italy, Spain, Greece and Tunisia and packed in Italy; 100% Product of Italy Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil produced in Sicily, Calabria and Puglia; PDO Val di Mazara Organic Olive Oil and Extra Virgin Olive Oil PDO– Val di Mazara, among others. Each oil has its own certifications, depending largely on the origin of the olives from which it was made. “Our distribution is led by our Siciliancertified product that comes with PDO and PGI certification,” Russo-Tiesi said. The PDO- and PGI-certified oils guarantee that the origin of the olives as well as the factory
Fresh Products Sprout Category Growth An interview with Lee Coté, Marketing Director, Garden Fresh Gourmet.
GN: Tell our readers about Garden Fresh Gourmet and where to find your products.
LC: Garden Fresh Gourmet is a manufacturer of fresh salsas, hummus and chips. When I refer to fresh salsa, I refer to a salsa made with tomatoes or other ingredients that were never heated or cooked. You can find these products in the fresh section of your grocery store such as the deli or produce. In fact, Garden Fresh Gourmet is the number one fresh salsa brand in the United States and most notably known for its Jack’s Special Salsa.
GN: How do you see the hummus category evolving?
LC: Hummus has been growing for the past 15 years, however household penetration on average is only around 30 percent. Products have traditionally been focused on chickpea recipes, but there is a big trend towards legumes and other beans where the main ingredients are white, black beans, edamame and even lentils. These are mixed with various combinations of unique ingredients like vegetables, and even chocolate! Have you ever tried a dessert hummus? It has the benefits of classic hummus and tastes great with fruit or baked goods. Hummus really is a very versatile product. There are so many
Discover Porthos from Conservas Portugal Norte For more than 100 years, Conservas Portugal Norte has perpetuated the tradition of canned fish that has been passed down from one generation to another. In 1912, its first cannery opened in the little fishing village of Sesimbra in Portugal, ideally located on the Atlantic coast. From this little village cannery, the company grew to become a reference in terms of canned fish. A few years later, in the 1940s, Conservas Portugal Norte moved to another village, Matosinhos, where it could benefit from a
more modern and efficient facility. After renewing all its infrastructures, it was able to produce the best canned fish while maintaining its traditions. Since then, the factory remains at the same address and preserved its savoir-faire to offer its consumers the best product. Every day, fresh fish arrives at the facilities and is processed according to the traditional recipes. Being just 10 minutes away from the port enables Conservas Portugal Norte to produce different preparations with
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tified by the NonGMO Project as well. The Skipjack Wild Tuna is sustainably pole and line caught near Cape Verde, and the Petite Tonno Wild Tuna is sourced in the same region by purse seine fishing vessels that do not use FADs (Fish Aggregating Devices). Both of
these methods are in line with the best practices for sustainability recommended by a consensus of environmental groups, including the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program. Both products are available in 6.7-ounce glass jars with 1.5 servings per jar (drained). Each has a suggested retail price of $6.99.
that produces the oil is grown, harvested and processed exclusively in the Val di Mazara region of west-central Sicily, which includes the province of Palermo and western Agrigento Province. “Those certifications guarantee quality and traceability,” Russo-Tiesi said. To attain the certifications, the company worked with a third-party auditor that “came in and tracked everything from the first day the olive grows on the tree to the day we bottle the oil,” which provides full transparency, according to Russo-Tiesi. “We have a very high-quality product, a very traceable product. Each bottle has its own serial number that kind of acts like a VIN number on a car, so you can trace each bottle of olive oil back to the producer, which is us, and where it comes from – the Sicilian land.” In addition to the certification standards, the PDO and PGI bodies contribute their store of accumulated wisdom about oleicul-
ture, which Russo-Tiesi says helps the company to grow the highest-quality olives and thus to produce the highest-quality olive oil. “The PDO and PGI [which also certifies protected designations] bodies are with us every step of the production and selling way,” Russo-Tiesi said. The success of their efforts is measured by the more than 50 awards that Bono has taken home for its oils over the past decade. “The Bono family has done a great job,” Russo-Tiesi said. “It’s four brothers from a very close-knit family that have taken this factory to new levels. They’re now one of the top five premier extra-virgin olive oil traders [by volume of extra-virgin olive oil] in Italy. They’re now expanding and investing greatly into Spain and Tunisia.”
uses for it from adding it to your favorite salad dressing to topping it with grilled chicken.
GN: What other trends are you seeing?
LC: Increasingly there is a demand for fresh, plant-based products. Consumers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, know fresh just tastes better. Consumers are reading the ingredients on their products, and are making more informed healthy choices. Plant-based proteins and meat alternatives are also very popular. We see items like tofu and vegan sausages growing strongly over the next couple of years as consumers seek out plantbased protein alternative products not only for their health, but for their impact on the environment. These products are leading the way for the best ingredients. The result is products of quality, certified by the highest standards. Since introducing Conservas Portugal Norte a little over a year ago, the demand for these unique sardine tins has seen a steady increase, gaining more momentum with each passing day. The tins have eye-catching shelf appeal, attracting buyers and customers with original artwork and bright colors. Each flavor comes in a different colored tin, and a variety of these tins on the shelf will be sure to draw the attention of any consumer. Better yet, the
For more information, .bonousainc.com.
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vegans, vegetarians and also for flexitarians to incorporate healthier options into their diet.
GN: What opportunities do you see in the fresh category?
LC: There is a large opportunity to bring consumers to do more of their shopping along the perimeter of the store where you find fresh products versus the aisles. Once consumers try fresh products, they taste the difference fresh ingredients make and are hooked. Cross promotions and demos are a great way to encourage trial. At the end of the day, better for you, fresh food is always a key for growth.
For more information, go to www.garden freshgourmet.com. uncompromising quality and flavor will lure customers back for more. The French Farm offers the Porthos line from Conservas Portugal Norte Tuna in Olive Oil and six flavors of sardines: Tomato Sauce, Hot Tomato Sauce, Brine, Hot Vegetable Oil, Olive Oil, Spiced in Olive Oil. They all come packaged 24 in a case and will please every seafood lover. Looking for an original gift? Try the wooden gift box assortment of five of the best-seller’s flavors.
For more information, go to www.the frenchfarm.com.
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DeBrand Truffle Collection DeBrand Truffles are the luxurious sweet conclusion that will entice each and every customer. These 12 incredible variations seem almost too beautiful to eat … almost! Each oversized piece is individually and artistically designed, but their true beauty lies within. These irresistible silky, rich Truffles are petite, gourmet chocolate desserts. DeBrand Truffles boast a minimum shelf life of two months at room temperature, with no need for refrigeration or preparation by your staff. All varieties are guaranteed in stock and are
available to ship within one to two business days, all year round. DeBrand packaging is also available for purchase, and its Truffle wholesale prices are currently set for resellers to earn a margin over 62 percent. DeBrand makes it easy to offer a gourmet chocolate experience year round. Simply set on a plate and serve! Featuring these beautiful Truffles in a display case is the perfect way to entice your customers. As they arrive, they will be greeted by the promise of a high-quality, gourmet chocolate experience. This is an
Winner! Winner! Bar-B-Que Dinner! By Kyle Oglesby, Owner, Daddy Sam’s LLC
Daddy Sam’s has had an award-winning year! We swept the Texas Bar-B-Que Division at the World Hot Sauce Awards. Daddy Sam’s Original was named Champion, Daddy Sam’s Salmon & Seafood Glaze was 2nd and Daddy Sam’s Ginger Jalapeño was 3rd. We were the only brand to sweep a division this year. We also won our third 1st Place Scovie with Daddy Sam’s Ginger Jalapeño Bar-B-Que Sawce this year. The best award though, by far, is the loyalty of our amazing fans. You are the best! We know that barbecue is a passionate world and brand loyalty is a big deal. Thank you so much, Daddy Sam’s fans! Daddy Sam’s makes delicious West Texas style barbecue sauces. Daddy Sam Oglesby
was a cowboy and rancher in West Texas and our amazing family recipe is named after him – he is also our great grandfather! Sharing great food and fun with family and friends is what we are trying to complement at Daddy Sam’s. Food always tastes better with great company, and with Daddy Sam’s. As we like to say ... Just Slop It On! We created Daddy Sam’s because we couldn’t find anything like it on grocery store shelves. We wanted a West Texas barbecue sauce without any corn products, gluten, soy, MSG, fillers or anything artificial, so we decided to bottle up the family recipe. Daddy Sam’s is certified gluten free, certified kosher, non-GMO compliant, vegan and a woman-owned business. Daddy Sam’s Original West Texas Recipe
Stonewall Kitchen Welcomes Vermont Village Specialty food maker Stonewall Kitchen expands with the addition of Vermont Village, maker of fine apple sauces and apple cider vinegar products. The company’s high-quality offerings and New England roots make the acquisition a natural fit for Stonewall Kitchen, which has been steadily adding to its family by partnering with premium brands that are leaders in their categories. Since the 1970s, Vermont Village has been at the forefront of the organic food movement and focused on providing its customers with wholesome, quality products. Over
time, the company has earned a loyal following of fans who especially love its apple sauces and sipping vinegars. Its Organic Unsweetened Apple Sauce was voted the best-tasting apple sauce by Epicurious in an independent taste test of 28 different brands. Its unique sipping vinegars, which combine the health benefits of apple cider vinegar with the great taste of organic fruits, roots and spices, are a must-have for many. Its best-selling unsweetened apple sauce is well-loved for its rich, wholesome taste. Made in small batches using the whole apple includ-
New Products from Tortuga Rum Cake Company By Natalia Garcia, Senior Marketing and Business Development Manager, Tortuga Rum Cake Company
Tortuga is a Caribbean-born brand that has become world-renowned, continuing to lead the specialty and liquor cakes category by focusing on innovation and ensuring that its consumers are presented with fresh and new options. With so many new products, increasing its penetration in the travel retail and specialty market has been a natural process, and Tortuga has strategically focused on these markets across the Caribbean, including most major air and cruise ports, principal hotel and gift locations and more
than 100 cruise ships. In 2019, Tortuga released its highly-anticipated Rum Cake Bites in the travel retail space with three different packages – standard tapered box (5 ounces), Cruise Exclusive (9 ounces) and Travel Retail Edition (12 ounces) – and has also expanded its line of specialty “provenance” rum cakes for each travel retail market. Consumers will now be able to spot beautiful, illustrative packaging on the shelves, featuring Tortuga Mexican Vanilla Rum Cake, Tortuga Mamajuana Rum Cake of the Dominican Republic, and Tortuga Jamaican Rum Fruit Cake. Tortuga has also relaunched its line of Tortuga Flavors of Florida, including Florida Key Lime, Florida
easy add-on sale and has no need for any preparation, just bag or box and go! DeBrand is also happy to provide artwork and product descriptions for menus, displays and social media advertising. DeBrand recommends carrying an ongoing selection of at least four to six different Truffles to provide a wide selection and an eye-catching display. Its four most popular Truffles are Dark Chocolate, Caramel, is molasses, vinegar and mesquite based. It’s tangy and sweet with a kick at the end, and very versatile. We created Daddy Sam’s Salmon & Seafood Glaze because fish and seafood are so often left out when it came to barbecue. We know that people are missing out on great flavors by not barbecuing fish and seafood. There is nothing else like it on the market and we’ve changed perceptions about what can be barbecued. Our Ginger Jalapeño flavor is an updated and zesty take on West Texas barbecue. It’s a sauce with a modern twist and more heat, yet still excites barbecue traditionalists. The molasses, vinegar and mesquite base means that Daddy Sam’s Sawces are for so much more than ribs! We encourage fans to try out ideas with Daddy Sam’s. We have ing the peel, no water or sugar is added – just real fruit. A nutritious treat any time of day. It’s available both in jars and in convenient, snack-sized cups that are great for busy families on the go. The apple cider vinegar is also crafted with care. Brimming with beneficial bacteria, apple cider vinegar has long been celebrated for its digestive powers and feel-good properties. The Vermont Village version is raw and unfiltered with the living nutrients known as the “mother” intact, preserving the best of natural fermentation. Certified organic and non-GMO, this apple cider vinegar is delicious in dishes, mixed with seltzer or – for those who love the tart taste – taken straight. Those less inclined to imbibe it asOrange and Florida Coconut flavors with unique packaging. According to a new report published by Allied Market Research, titled “Global Travel Retail Market by Product and Channel: Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2018–2025,” the global travel retail market size accounted for $74.9 billion in 2017, and is expected to reach $153.7 billion by 2025, providing an important source of revenue opportunity for the brand. By positioning Tortuga’s core offerings in this sector, it will continue to be top-of-mind for passengers globally and can provide consumers with iconic treasures that are ideal for gifting. After 35 years as ‘The World’s Best Rum Cake,’ Tortuga made the bold decision to
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Peanut Butter and Raspberry. In addition to selling Truffles by the piece, they are also available in prepackaged assortments, ideal for holidays, events and when guests are in a hurry. These high-quality, gourmet chocolates are perfect for gift shops, restaurants and other gourmet shops. DeBrand Truffles deliver a high-quality, gourmet chocolate experience that your guests are sure to remember and come back for more.
For more information, www.debrand.com.
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made baked beans, roasted vegetables, pizza, sloppy joes, grilled fruit, jalapeño poppers, zipped up chili, poured over cream cheese or other soft cheeses for a delicious appetizer, and of course, ribs! We are always working on new recipes and unconventional ways to use Daddy Sam’s, and we encourage our fans to do the same. Think outside the jar with Daddy Sam’s! Daddy Sam’s is committed to packing in glass and other easily recyclable materials and reducing waste as much as possible. Daddy Sam’s is a 1% for the Planet member and puts the money toward water issues.
For more information, go to www.daddy sams.com, call 512.827.1958 or email kyle@daddysams.com.
is will love the company’s line of sipping vinegars, which are made with raw honey and infused with organic blueberries, cranberries, ginger and other flavorful ingredients. Available in 8-ounce bottles or in handy single-shot pouches, these vinegars are a great choice for any health-minded customer. This brand is an excellent addition to the Stonewall Kitchen family. From apple sauce to apple cider vinegar, Vermont Village has good taste covered, crafting wholesome and delicious products that are good to their core.
For more information, go to www.stone wallkitchen.com.
create a new cake, but not with the spirit one might have guessed. Bourbon, one of the largest and fastest growing spirits in the nation is what makes Tortuga’s newest product extra special. Tortuga’s Kentucky Bourbon Butter Cake is filled with smooth notes of faintly sweet oak that will linger on the palate. It is created with only the finest highquality ingredients, as are all of Tortuga’s products, and with the distinctive addition of aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Consumers’ taste buds will experience a unique, flavorful taste profile with bold character.
For more information, go to www.tortuga rumcakes.com or call 786.817.6880.
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Acme Smoked Fish Balances Trends With Heritage By Greg Gonzales
More than a century ago, Harry Brownstein emigrated from Russia to Brooklyn, where he first began selling smoked fish. That business grew steadily over the next few decades, and officially became Acme Smoked Fish in 1954. Despite several setbacks, including a 1966 factory fire, Acme has grown into arguably the largest fish smoker in the U.S., a fourth-generation fam-
ily business boasting four brands and five production facilities – two on both coasts of the U.S. and one in Chile. “We want to be the leading smokehouse in the category,” said Ellen Lee-Allen, Senior Marketing Manager of Acme Smoked Fish. “That’s a combination of having the widest array of products available, making our customers happy and doing what we can to keep up with consumer demand.” To meet the differing expectations from a
Barry Callebaut Launches Cacaofruit Experience Barry Callebaut AG, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, is rolling out a new range of products called Cacaofruit Experience. According to the company, Cacaofruit Experience celebrates the fresh, fruity taste and natural richness of the cacaofruit and marks the creation of a next-generation food and drink category. Whereas normally 70 percent of the cacao fruit is discarded as waste, Cacaofruit Expe-
rience products make use of the entire fruit: its beans, its nutrient-dense peel and its fresh and fruity pulp and juice. This results in a range of high-quality ingredients that can be used in applications such as juices, smoothies, frozen desserts, bakery and pastry products, as well as snacks all the way to chocolate. Callebaut believes that these products will appeal to consumers who earnestly want to live a happy, healthy life, in symbiosis with
This Saves Lives: Snacks That Give Back This Saves Lives is a snack bar company on a mission to end child malnutrition worldwide. Co-Founders Kristen Bell, Ryan Devlin, Todd Grinnell and Ravi Patel believe all children, no matter what their circumstances, deserve the opportunity to thrive. Ryan and Todd first encountered malnutrition in 2007 while visiting a refugee camp in Liberia. It was heartbreaking. When Ryan and Todd came back to their beautiful homes, clean water and abundant food sup-
ply, they couldn’t shake what they experienced, and really, they didn’t want to. They wanted to remember the children they met and they wanted to do something about hunger. When hanging with Kristen one night, Ryan shared this crazy idea: What if they could create a social impact business model to help end malnutrition? Considering malnutrition is the No. 1 cause of death in children under five, they knew something had to
The Asaro Family from Sicily: 104 Years of Olive Oil Excellence Since 1916, the Asaro family has harvested and crushed the best olives the Belice Valley has to offer. Located in Partanna, Sicily in the province of Trapani, the olives benefit from the environment around them. The Mediterranean Sea, the Sicilian soil and the salinity from the air transform the olives and olive oil into balanced, unique products.
Today, the fourth generation of the Asaro family is continuing its commitment to bringing its customers the highest quality natural and organic Sicilian olive oil, olives and other specialty foods. Thanks to the company’s deep knowledge in specialty foods production, The Asaro family seeks to satisfy the needs of both its customers and farmers.
Mamie’s Pies Offers Homemade Taste Mamie’s Pies are the frozen little pies with the big homemade taste. Shaped like apples, blueberries and pumpkins, these pocket pies are the perfect size to enjoy any time of the year. With their unique shapes and absolutely delicious homemade taste, it didn’t take long for Mamie’s pocket pies to be chosen as Oprah’s Favorite and now regularly sell out on QVC. Using simple, all-natural ingredients and no preservatives, Mamie’s pocket pies are
frozen, unbaked and go freezer to oven, air fry or deep fry. Mamie’s flavors include the sweet and tart McIntosh apple, Wild Maine blueberry, tart Michigan cherry, sweet strawberry, perfect peach and New England pumpkin with molasses and brown sugar whipped to perfection. Each pocket pie is surrounded by Mamie’s signature flaky crust and chock full of fruit forward fillings. With only four ingredients in the crust and
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variety of consumers, Acmes four brands each offer something unique. Acme is the flagship brand, concentrated more on the East Coast; Blue Hill Bay is a premium brand with the widest array of products. Ruby Bay is a regional brand for select markets, and Great American Smoked Fish Company serves the Florida-based foodservice side of the business. Last year, Acme caught the Hawaiian poke bowl wave by offering its own take: Blue Hill Bay Smoked Salmon Poke Bowls. “We put our twist on the trend – it’s usually made with fresh fish and vegetables and seasonings and a starch, but we used our smoked fish,” Lee-Allen said. “Not only did it get a
smoked fish taste, it also had a longer shelf life, so we were able to introduce it as a packaged product... We’re trying to expand the eating occasions of smoked fish.” To further achieve that end, the company introduced its version of salmon candy, a brown-sugar cured Atlantic salmon that’s double-smoked. It’s a sweet and savory snack on its own that also works as a replacement for bacon. “Back in the day, there were a good number of Brooklyn smokehouses, and we’re one of the last standing,” LeeAllen said. “Customers who have known Acme, they trust our heritage. We’ve been around a long time, and we’re still Brooklyn based. That sets us apart.”
be done and it had to work – after all, real lives are depending on it. Kristen believed in a future for every child. She was in. But they needed someone who was business savvy to make this work, and that’s when they called Ravi. He was determined to build the brand to make a real and sustainable impact on malnutrition. The four actors started making bars in their kitchens until they developed the delicious and nutritious bars we know today. That’s how This Saves Lives was born in 2013. First in their hearts, then in their kitchens, as they worked on making an in-
credible product that would fuel millions of people to do something radical to help end hunger. Through this unique social impact model, This Saves Lives became a social platform that makes delicious snack food while empowering people like you to make a positive change on malnutrition. This Saves Lives means it when it says, “We eat together.”
the world around them. Cacaofruit Experience responds to their need for food and beverages that are tasty and nutritious for them and also good for the planet and its people, according to the company. These products have the fresh and fruity taste of the cacao fruit along with fiber, protein and magnesium. At the same time, they are good for the planet and its people because the entire cacaofruit is utilized. “Innovation is one of the pillars of our growth strategy. Our unparalleled knowledge has enabled us to break new ground, unleashing the full power of the cacao fruit, which the Mayans cherished as ‘food of the gods,’” said Antoine de Saint-Af-
frique, Barry Callebaut’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are looking forward to starting a new journey with our customers and discovering the completely new range of applications that Cacaofruit Experience and whole-fruit chocolate will make possible.” SnackFutures, the innovation and venture hub of Mondelēz International, the world’s largest snacking company, is the first company to introduce Cacaofruit Experience in a consumer product under its new CaPao brand. CaPao is piloting two cacaofruit snack products – Smoothie Ball and cacao fruit Jerky Strips – with select retailers in Los Angeles, California.
For more information, go to www.this saveslives.com.
United Olive Oil Import Corp. is born as an exclusive importer and distributor for the Asaro Family brands. The strong passion for the Mediterranean diet with an increasing market demand for natural and organic foods have brought the company to expand its line of imported products, becoming the perfect partner for small and medium Italian specialty food producers. Tommaso Asaro, United Olive Oil Import Corp Founder and President, is continuing the commitment to bring customers the highest-quality Sicilian foods. Brands include NYIOOC award winners Partanna, Paesanol, Green Gold,
Frankies and many more. The latest line, the ASARO ORGANIC FARM brand, brings the most delicious Sicilian gourmet specialties. The line includes ancient grain busiate pasta, artichoke cream, roasted artichoke hearts, oven roasted cherry tomatoes, marinated olives, Castelvetrano olives spread and olives salad, raw honey from orange blossom and natural Sicilian sodas. United Olive Oil Imports Corp. brings the best, healthiest, natural products Sicily has to offer to the USA – from the Asaro Farms to your table.
four in the filling, the company prides itself on simplicity, letting the delicious fruit speak for itself. It knows that pie doesn’t have to be complicated, so Mamie’s Pies brings it back to the basics, just like your grandmother used to make. It’s as easy as pie! With her grandmother’s recipes, company Founder Kara learned how to make pies in the kitchen with her mom Mamie. She took that life-long passion of pie making and raised
money for her daughter’s high school dance. Now over one million pocket pies have been sold nationwide, through e-commerce, retail and foodservice. The company’s mission is to spread happiness one pocket pie at a time. Mamie’s Pies launched into 1,000 retail doors nationwide in the fourth quarter of 2019, with over 4,000 more lined up this year. Mamie’s pocket pies are filling a white space in the frozen dessert category and are introducing a way to enjoy single-serving pie year-round.
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Vertullo Imports: Sourcing the Finest Italian Ingredients Vertullo Imports sources high quality specialty items from all over the world, leveraging longstanding supplier relationships and robust networks. While the company truly is all over the map, a high concentration of its items are sourced from Italy. To ensure attention to craftsmanship, quality, authenticity and taste, it even has overseas staff headquartered in Italy to help source and interface directly with Italian suppliers. Every region has its own distinctive style of cuisine and
Vertullo Imports’ goal is to bring a myriad of authentic Italian flavors to your dishes. Italy is synonymous with pasta; however, Northern Italy is actually known for its rice and polenta. Vertullo Imports offers Arborio and Carnaroli Rice, Pearled Italian Farro, Quick Cooking Polenta and more. In addition, it also offers a line of frozen, ready to cook and serve Risottos, available in Parmesan, Broccoli & Cauliflower, Porcini Mushroom and Saffron.
The Inimitable Le Gruyère AOP Switzerland In 1115 A.D., a cheese was discovered in western Switzerland – a region with rolling fields, scenic mountains and a majestic castle. This place, Gruyères, is the origin of the only true Le Gruyère AOP, with the unrivaled quality and flavor known the world over for more than 900 years. How was cheese ‘discovered’? In the old times, the farmers couldn’t keep the milk their cows produced for very long without spoiling, so they decided to try to produce something that would last longer. The result was cheese, and in particular, Gruyère. They soon discovered that this cheese, because its taste was unique and very appealing, could
be exchanged with others for goods, services – even soldiers. As time went on, Gruyère became famous for its unique flavor, and like most exceptional things, fame begat imitation. Cheese makers from other countries tried to make their own Gruyère, even calling it by the same name, but they always produced a cheese with a different flavor, which became very confusing. Gruyère had become not only popular, with a worldwide demand, but important to the region’s economy as well. Something had to be done. The most consumed cheese in Switzer-
Le Bon Magot Launches Foodservice Packs The embrace of Middle Eastern/Mediterranean/North African and South Asian flavors makes Le Bon Magot’s heritage recipes and approach to producing small batch condiments entirely relevant in 2020. The expansion of its line from 3-ounce and 7ounce retail sizes to include 58-ounce tubs means that the line of six (soon to be seven) chutneys and preserves is now available for food service applications. User friendly for all types of foodservice outlets (ready to eat counters, bakeries/patisseries, restaurants/ hotels, aircrafts/yachts, etc.), the packaging is light and both odor as well as stain free. From viennoiseries and bread puddings to soups and stews or simply including them at breakfast buffets, incorporating these items into an operation’s go-to recipes can reduce labor costs, make prep time more efficient
and add desirable flavor enhancements. Products include: Brinjal Caponata – Purple Aubergine (Eggplant) with Cumin & Curry Leaves; Carrot and Fruit Conserve with Coriander & Jaggery; Lemon-Sultana Marmalata with Caraway & Saffron; Sour Cherry and Pomegranate Conserve with Cocoa, Mahleb & Orange Flower; Spiced Raisin Marmalata with Ras al-Hanout & Smoked Cinnamon; Tomato and White Sultana Chutney with Ginger & Garam Masala; and White Pumpkin and Almond Murabba – Preserves with Cardamom & Vanilla. Le Bon Magot is a multi-award winning, woman-owned specialty food producer operating out of Hopewell, New Jersey. “Magot” (mă-gō′) or “the hidden treasure,” specializes in African, Middle Eastern and South Asian inspired condiments and culi-
Bella Sun Luci Sun Dried Tomato Chipotle Topper & Sauce Mooney Farms, the original California Sun Dried Tomato Company, recently introduced Sun Dried Tomato Chipotle Topper Sauce to its line of Bella Sun Luci products. The new product has been a huge success at trade shows and tastings around the country and is shaping up to be a great addition to Mooney Farms’ product line up. While searching for an interesting way to incorporate sun dried tomatoes into a spicier
dish, the Mooney Farms team looked to chipotle peppers from the Southwest. The two vine-grown vegetables, from opposite sides of the world, made for a harmonious marriage. The richness of the sun dried tomatoes coupled with the smoky heat of the chipotle peppers created an unparalleled flavor profile. “The versatility of this sauce is unparalleled,” says Chef Richard. “We have tried it on vegetables, pasta, hamburgers, fish tacos,
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Southern Italy is all about olive oil. Vertullo Imports’ Mediterranean Blend Extra Virgin Olive Oil has a buttery flavor and fruity aroma. Enjoy it as an ingredient in dressings, soups and sauces or drizzle over pasta, fish and grilled vegetables. In addition to its Olive Oil, the company also has a line of Truffle Oils. Vertullo Imports can’t talk about its Italian ingredients without mentioning its Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Add an extra layer of
depth, acidity and brightness to dressings, sauces, marinades, stews and more with the company’s flavorful line of vinegars. Head south to Sicily and enjoy Vertullo Imports’ Arancini rice balls. Each is blended with local mozzarella and Parmesan cheese and rolled in Italian breadcrumbs. If you’re looking for authentic Italian ingredients to elevate your next dish, look no further. Vertullo Imports is your source for the finest ingredients across the different regions throughout Italy.
land, and one of the most well-known in the world, is now – since 2001 – protected with an “AOP” designation, which in English means Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This guarantees a clear origin, a level of quality and a complete traceability back to the region of production. Le Gruyère AOP Switzerland takes it a step further, and places markings on each wheel that enable it to be tracked to the specific dairy in the region that produced it. There is only one true Le Gruyère AOP, the incomparable cheese from Switzerland. The “Le Gruyère AOP” mark on the side of the wheel proves it.
Today, Gruyère AOP is made in 170 small batches, with fresh, raw milk, and no additives or preservatives – it is 100 percent natural. The same recipe is used from more than nine centuries ago, a time before the use of additives and synthetic feed and ingredients were the norm. As such, Le Gruyère AOP is still tightly linked with the local, long-held traditions and terroir of Switzerland. This is why each taste of Le Gruyère AOP is a unique experience, centuries in the making.
nary ingredients: caponata, chutney, conserve, marmalata, preserves, tapenade and dressing. Expect to taste fresh, locally sourced produce and sweet, sun-dried fruit blended with the best quality oils, vinegars and spices sourced through specialist traders and ateliers from around the world. Each mouthful takes diners on a culinary journey to a different part of the Spice Route, offering distinctive flavors created from unique spice blends, unusual ingredients and innovative treatments of traditional recipes. Crafted preserves and relishes are made in small batches from heritage recipes using high-quality seasonal produce, customblended aromatics and no preservatives. They have the added benefit of being glutenfree and vegan friendly. In addition to the distinctive look and taste in dips, as a spread, on top of grilled steak, on chicken and more; these dishes were all enhanced by the mouth-watering flavors of this new sauce.” Chef Richard and Mooney Farms have been producing recipe videos to help consumers see the many ways in which this sauce can be used. These top-down videos are a large part of the Bella Sun Luci marketing, and have made a huge impact on helping educate customers about their products’ uses. Be on the lookout for more videos about the chipotle sauce soon. Bella Sun Luci is a line of premium Mediterranean-inspired products created
For more information, go to www.gruyere.com, email interprofession@ gruyere.com or call +41 (0) 26 921 84 10. of the products, a notable feature of the condiments is an enduring shelf-life, which has been achieved through classical, proven cooking and preserving techniques (e.g. pickling, temperature control, oil, sugar). The products are made in the heart of wine country on the North Fork of Long Island where they benefit from sourcing ingredients of the surrounding wineries, including the Wölffer Estate Vineyards, Sagaponack, New York. Le Bon Magot is fiercely proud of its supply chain and chooses suppliers carefully. It collaborates with B-Certified Corporations, like Rumi Spice, fair trade organizations and other small entrepreneurs, like La Boîte NY, who are focused on superior quality ingredients and support ethical practices.
For more information, go to www.lebon magot.com or follow the company on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter (@lebonmagot).
from authentic family recipes. The line includes a variety of deliciously sweet sun dried tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, sun dried tomato chipotle sauce, pasta sauces, bruschetta spreads, estate-grown olive oil, risotto, marinades and new vegan jerky. Bella Sun Luci is produced by Mooney Farms, a third generation, family-owned company based in Chico, California, that is rooted in quality, integrity and family values. Mooney Farms is the premier producer of sun dried tomatoes in the United States. For more information, go to www.bella sunluci.com.
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PB2 Expands into Protein Powders Category After company researchers noticed that many health-conscious consumers were adding PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter or PB2 Powdered Almond Butter to their protein shakes and smoothies for extra flavor and protein, PB2 came up with the idea for PB2 Performance Plant Protein Powders. Don’t compromise taste for performance! PB2 Performance Plant Protein Powder products are packed with all your functional needs and taste great. The lineup is made from craft processing of peanuts and tree nuts. The Performance lineup consists of
two products: PB2 Performance Peanut Protein with Dutch Cocoa and PB2 Performance Almond Protein with Madagascar Vanilla. PB2 Performance Peanut Protein with Dutch Cocoa comes in a 32-ounce jar and contains 20 grams of complete plant-based protein, plus 8 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It also has 190 calories and 5 grams of fat per serving. PB2 Performance Almond Protein with Madagascar Vanilla is available in a 16ounce jar and contains 20 grams of complete
How Golden Cannoli is Shaping the Future of Cannoli Since its start in 1970, Golden Cannoli Shells Co. has been making premium cannoli shells and ricotta fillings. Today, the company has expanded its offerings, with ready to serve cannoli, cannoli chips and more. Now celebrating its 50th year, Golden Cannoli is excited to share its vision for the future of cannoli, and why it thinks this tasty treat is ready for the spotlight. Cousins Angelo and Frank made the first Golden Cannoli in the back room of their bakery 50 years ago. Soon, other bakeries and restaurants were purchasing cannoli shells from them to resell in their own busi-
nesses. A second bakery was opened to keep up with demand, and Golden Cannoli Shells Co. was born. Fast forward to present day, and you can find the second generation, cousins Maria, Edwin, Eric and Valerie, keeping this family tradition alive in their 30,000 square foot Chelsea, Massachusetts facility. The recipe hasn’t changed too much, just tweaked and perfected to keep up with the times, keeping it free of trans fats, artificial colors, artificial flavors and artificial preservatives. In 2017, the cousins worked to achieve their SQF III certification, and have maintained it every year since.
Nutiva: Revolutionizing the Way the World Eats Nutiva is on a mission to build a better future. One where food is sustainably sourced, trade is fair and good global citizenship is not just a responsibility but a source of purpose and pride. The care the company takes with every Nutiva product is vital to that mission. It’s the commitment it makes to you and the way it works to revolutionize the way the world eats. Since 1999, Nutiva has invested 1 percent of its sales revenues in programs that spark change in the food industry by supporting regenerative farming practices to
create healthier communities. With every product sold, Nutiva is helping make the world a little better with meaningful changes to the way food is farmed and support for the people who farm it. That’s over $5 million dollars to date. Nutiva produces organic, plant-based food, supplements and body care products, and it protects what’s best about them, at every step of their journey to you. That way the benefits of ingredients like organic coconut and hemp reach you intact, to enhance your diet, care for your body and energize
Quality, Value and Tradition from Carmelina When it comes to quality, value and tradition, nothing compares to the simple goodness of Carmelina ‘e...San Marzano® Italian Tomatoes and Carmelina Brands® Italian Beans. Produced and imported from southern Italy, Mangia, Inc.™ takes pride in providing clean, quality ingredients that are all-natural, with no added salt, sugars or preservatives. These products are Non-GMO Project Verified, OU kosher, gluten free and packed in BPA-free, easy-open containers. The cans are nestable. At Mangia, Inc., innovation is key. With a solid production and quality assurance team on staff, the company is continually
developing cutting-edge, new items to meet the growing needs of its clients and the industry at large. Over the last few years, Mangia has launched two Prepared Tomato Sauce products in shelf-stable, eco-friendly pouches: Carmelina ‘e…San Marzano Authentic Italian Pizza Sauce, and Carmelina ‘e…San Marzano Authentic Italian Marinara Sauce. These sauces are available in 91-ounce pouches, and have been a huge hit with retailers in deli and prepared food sections. With the global demand for legumes skyrocketing and the desire for healthier food options on the rise, Mangia, Inc. recently
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plant-based protein and 7 grams of dietary fiber per serving. It has 180 calories and 4.5 grams of fat per serving. Both flavor varieties will retail in the $20 to $25 range. PB2 Performance products have clean labels that contain just six ingredients each, including brown rice protein, inulin (a prebiotic fiber providing both functional and nutritional benefits), monk fruit extract (a natural, sugar-free sweetener) and salt. Each product delivers 20 grams of complete plant protein with every serving. These products
Visit PB2 at booth #N2040. For more information, go to www.pb2foods.com, call 229.387.7238 or email customerservice @pb2foods.com.
“We’re proud to manufacture exclusively cannoli products,” Owner and CSMO Valerie Bono says. “This focus on specifically cannoli is what has caused us to be industry leaders and has pushed us to innovate in ways our competition hasn’t even begun to dream up.” Valerie references the new ready-to-serve products featuring cannoli chips (bite size pieces of cannoli shell dusted with sugar) paired with real ricotta cannoli cream. “We’re turning this special occasion dessert into an anytime, anywhere snack.” Golden Cannoli’s chip and dip platters aren’t the only new items shaking up the cannoli category – the company’s pre-filled cannoli (in family five packs and as single serve
jumbo cannoli) have given bakeries without the space or staff to fill cannoli, an opportunity to get in on the action, too. As for the future of cannoli and where it can go, Bono continues to dream big with the launch of the inclusions line. She anticipates partnerships with other brands that showcase cannoli flavors. “Five years ago, we saw the creation of a ‘cannoli category’ within the greater bakery category. That in itself was a milestone, and since then we’ve been able to really track its explosive growth. We think consumers are finally ready for cannoli flavored products like pies, donuts and cakes. It has the potential to be so much more than just that traditional cream filled shell.”
your life. Nutiva’s Squeezable Organic Coconut Oil pouches are available in Virgin and Steam Refined. These innovative, easy-to-dispense, mess-free pouches are perfect for everyday cooking and baking. Squeezable Organic Virgin Coconut Oil is made from 100 percent organic, young coconuts, cold-pressed immediately after harvesting, and provides a mild creamy coconut flavor to a variety of dishes. Organic Steam Refined Coconut Oil is made from dried coconut (copra) that is steam refined without chemicals, for a neutral flavor, making it extremely versatile. Both Squeezable Coconut Oil pouches are keto certified.
Nutiva’s innovative packaging is environmentally friendly and uses less materials. From manufacturing to transporting, these pouches require 50 percent less carbon than glass or plastic containers. When you choose Nutiva products, you can feel confident that the food that sustains you also sustains ethical organic farming communities and supports regenerative farming techniques. Together, let’s revolutionize the way the world eats.
launched Carmelina Brands Chick Pea Puree, which are simply smashed chickpeas. The product is packed in an easyopen, triple-barrier, BPA-free aseptic pouch. Carmelina Brands Chick Pea Puree is extremely versatile and easy to use. Simply open the pouch, season, flash blend to desired consistency and go. This revolutionary item saves on time, labor and energy costs. No need to wash or soak chickpeas overnight, or cook, drain and pulse them for an extended time. No need to deal with safety or carbon footprint issues faced when working with canned product, and it produces a 100-percent yield. Carmelina Brands Chick Pea Puree offers the perfect base for hummus, soups, sandwich spreads,
vegetarian burgers, baked goods and more. The possibilities are endless. With one of the cleanest ingredient statements on shelf, Carmelina ‘e… San Marzano Italian Tomatoes and Carmelina Brands Italian Beans offer chefs and families consistent, quality, flavorful ingredients that they can feel good about bringing to the table. Products are available in 14.28-ounce and 28-ounce retail sizes, 91ounce foodservice size and industrial drum sizes.
are naturally flavored, no added sugar, and added prebiotic fiber for digestive support. Never settle for less than great taste and food that fuels you! Both products are certified vegan, certified gluten free, certified by the Non-GMO Project and Certified OU Kosher. Eat what you love. Love what you eat. Choose PB2.
For more information, go to www.nutiva.com, call 800.993.4367 or find the company on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information, call 866.462.6442, email info@mangiainc.com or go to www.carmelinabrands.com.
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Cynara’s Certified Organic Artichokes Expand into U.S. Cynara Worldwide Sourcing, Inc., a global leader in premium artichokes, is launching its Certified Organic Expansion Project. Its mission is to continue to support artichoke farmers and growers, with new organic crops being expanded each year. The new distribution initiatives into the U.S. retail, e-commerce, foodservice and private label markets will continue to grow brand awareness and product knowledge for Cynara. The company’s primary corporate philosophy is to be responsible global citizens. “With the expanded distribution of Certified Organic Artichokes launching early spring 2020, we won’t compromise flavor, quality or food safety,” said Nina Kalandadze, Gen-
eral Manager at Cynara. “We only provide our customers with the best artichokes ever produced.” Cynara’s Organic Artichokes are raised in the nutrient-dense soil of Spain. The perfect summer days and mild winters create the perfect growing environment for its organic artichokes to thrive. With its striking and colorful flower buds, this perennial plant produces the most delicate, delicious and buttery sweet artichoke you will taste. The artichokes are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides. Cynara stays true to the roots of the organic food movement by using traditional, global-friendly farming methods that are in-
Fuel with Honey Stinger’s Organic Cracker Bars Made with delicious honey and organic ingredients, Honey Stinger provides the fuel you need to push harder and go farther. Using an ingredient engineered by nature as opposed to in a laboratory has its benefits, like providing a higher quality taste and texture without needing any additional flavoring or coloring. This is why Honey Stinger is proud to use honey as an important ingredient in every single one of its products. Honey not only tastes great, but it has
amazing benefits on the body, too. Research in endurance athletes has shown that a mixture of carbohydrates is better tolerated by the body, as it prevents fatigue and enhances performance more than a single carbohydrate form. Since honey is considered a combination of carbohydrates, its natural sugars fructose and glucose work together with the body to be quickly and easily digested to help it perform at its best. You push your body to the limits, so why not nourish it with food
Get to Know Your Pro-, Pre- and Post-Biotic We’ve all heard of probiotics and may have even tried a product of some kind to support gut health. Probulin® comes in dietary supplements (capsules) that are easily taken to support your pro-, pre- and post-biotic systems. Although some foods contain gut-busting bacteria to support the digestive system – like chocolates, food bars and some yogurts – sometimes the body needs more support. Let’s get to know your pro-, pre- and post-biotic systems.
What is a probiotic? A probiotic is a microorganism (such as Lactobacilli or Bifidobacteria) that, when consumed as a food or dietary supplement, helps maintain and restore beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract. The World Health
Organization refers to probiotics as microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts – 10 to 20 billion CFU – infer a benefit to the host. One key point is that taking higher doses (more billions) of probiotics does not necessarily mean that they will actually work better. Probiotics have been linked by clinical studies to supporting immune health, motility function, proper digestion of the food we eat, and so much more.
What is a prebiotic? All living things require nourishment, and so do probiotic bacteria. A prebiotic is a fraction of soluble fiber that is a food source for the probiotics. You may have heard how important fiber is in the diet. The fact that probiotic
Golden Cannoli Celebrates 50 Years This year, family owned Golden Cannoli Shells Co. is celebrating its 50th year of business. Known for supplying the U.S. and Canada with its hand rolled cannoli shells, cannoli chips and ricotta fillings, this 50th year is a major milestone for the second generation, who joined the family business in 2001. Based out of Chelsea, Massachusetts, this nationally recognized brand is known for not just its authentic cannoli products, but its commitment to innovation, customer service and quality. Golden Cannoli is proud of its clean label cannoli shells, chips and fillings
that are all trans fat free, contain no artificial preservatives, no artificial flavors or colors and are certified kosher. Over the past 50 years, the family recipe has been perfected, resulting in crispy golden brown shells that are unparalleled in taste and quality every time. Each shell is still hand rolled, the same way the original golden cannoli was made back in 1970. When asked about the future of cannoli, Owner Valerie Bono said, “As the cannoli category grows, we’re excited to continue innovating by extending our ready to serve
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spected by nationally recognized agencies to verify organic authenticity. “Our company has over a 15-year history of working closely with farmers to promote sustainable agriculture, renewable and conscious growing practices and bringing freshly picked and jarred artichokes from field to table,” said Kalandadze. Today, shoppers continue to demand healthier, trusted products and are concerned about the detrimental effects of GMOs and artificial agents. By choosing organic and eco-friendly products, people are investing directly in their family’s health, the health of the planet and the health of farms. “We believe some artichokes can change people’s lives. Artichokes rank among the most antioxidant-rich of all vegetables, and
we are convinced that by creating the best artichokes – we can also contribute to a better world,” said Kalandadze. “We work with honesty, transparency and great enthusiasm and we try to transmit it wherever we go.” Cynara’s Certified Organic Artichokes come in a variety of sizes and preparations for all culinary needs. One can treat themselves to the nutritional power of artichokes in many ways: boiled, baked, grilled, roasted and even microwaved. Add some artichoke flare to your favorite pizza, pasta, salad, bruschetta and other dishes.
that tastes great and helps keep your muscles happy, too? Honey Stinger’s Organic Cracker Bars™ are not only sweetened with honey, but they’re also organic, nonGMO, and contain no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. With organic nut butter and honey sandwiched between two multi-grain crackers, then covered in delicious chocolate, they’re one sweet treat you can feel great about eating. Not to mention, their carbohydrate combination combined with protein and healthy fats help make these
bars a complete post-exercise solution for replenishing working muscles and kicking post-workout muscle fatigue. Any time you get a sweet craving, it’s time you reached for an Organic Cracker Bar. No matter how you move your body, you need convenient nutrition that tastes great and works, every single time. Turn to Honey Stinger and give your body the fuel it needs.
bacteria need this prebiotic fiber as a food source is a big reason for this importance. If probiotics are properly nourished, then they are healthier, and their health is important to your health.
Visit Cynara at booth #5382. For more information, go to www.cynara.net.
Visit Honey Stinger at booth #5178. For more information, email sales@honeystinger.com or go to www.honeystinger.com.
body), other organic acids and metabolites that are vital to overall health, and so much more.
Pre-, Pro- and Postbiotics Together When you are looking for a probiotic, it is vital to make sure that it contains a prebiotic and a probiotic with a scientifically validated delivery system such as the MAKTrek 3-D Probiotic Delivery system. If you really want to step it up and make sure that your probiotic will be most effective, make sure that it not only contains the prebiotic, probiotic and proven delivery system, but also postbiotics. Probulin’s Total Care Probiotic is a great choice for those who seek pre-, pro- and postbiotics together.
What is a postbiotic? Now comes a new term. Have you ever heard of a postbiotic? This amazing term completes the third leg of the stool when it comes to optimal digestive health. A postbiotic is defined as the compounds that are created by probiotics as they live and thrive in the digestive system. These postbiotic compounds created by the probiotics may include such things as: vitamins like Vitamin K and B-12, amino acids, bacteriocins (natural compounds that destroy harmful organisms), short chain fatty acids (that can become nourishment to the body and help to promote growth of beneficial probiotic bacteria in the
For more information, www.probulin.com.
cannoli product line, and educating new customers about this much loved dessert.” Over the past 10 years, Golden Cannoli has seen major growth, first with the purchase and renovation of its 30,000 square foot SQF III facility, and then with the creation and extension of its ready to serve retail product line, including the invention of The Original Cannoli Chips. “The launch of innovative ready to serve items, like our Cannoli Chip & Dip Platter, has been a total game changer for us,” says Owner Eric Bresciani. “Now we’re able to share the cannoli experience in places that might not have the space or staff for filling traditional cannoli.”
Golden Cannoli hopes to spread “cannoli awareness” by introducing its cannoli chip and dip platters and cups to not just stores and bakeries, but into quick serve restaurants, on campus dining halls, and even stadiums and theme parks. With projects like its cannoli inclusion line, the company hopes that other manufacturers will get a taste for this unique flavor profile. “There isn’t a dessert we can’t cannoli,” says Foodservice Director Margaret Dwyer. “From donuts and cake, to ice cream and pies, the potential for collaboration is endless. We’re excited to share the experience of cannoli across the spectrum of desserts.”
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Divine Chocolate Organic Line is Plastic-Free Divine Chocolate, the only Fairtrade chocolate company in the world owned by cocoa farmers, has launched a new organic chocolate bar line with packaging that is completely plastic-free and compostable. These new chocolate bars were created in response to the growing demand by consumers for products to be more sustainably packaged and contain less sugar with better ingredients. “Organic sales are growing, and we have responded to chocolate lovers who say they are actively looking for organic ingredients and
higher cocoa content,” says Liz Miller, Senior Marketing Manager at Divine Chocolate. “We’ve sourced exceptional organic and Fairtrade cocoa from a flourishing co-operative of farmers in São Tomé, and we’re excited to partner with them to produce this delicious line while remaining true to our mission.” This is Divine Chocolate’s first organic chocolate bar and first time sourcing cocoa from CECAQ-11, a co-operative of farmers on the island of São Tomé, a beautiful forest-covered volcanic island located off the
Half Pallet Display Program from Suzie’s Good Groceries Company, under its popular Suzie’s brand, has long offered club store programs. Included in the company’s vision for 2020, it is offering conventional store club style displays. Its half pallet display program offers all the value with half the required quantity commitment. This program offers real value to the consumer (25-70 percent) over individual item purchasing, higher ring for the retailer, minimum store labor required and remnant issues are virtually eliminated. The half pallet program offers full size displays with lower product commitments, ranging from a low of 65 units to a high of 336. Introducing Suzie’s high protein, organic, gluten free couscous. Available in Pea, Red Lentil or Chickpea. Each half pallet offers
336 units of 4 x 14 ounce (400g total), allowing for consumer value and increased profits. Next up is a six pack of 5.3-ounce organic Popcorn Cakes. With only 65 units on a half pallet, look for a quick sell through, higher retail ring and again – significant value to the consumer. Introducing Suzie’s six Meal Fixin’s kits. You provide the bowl, wrap or taco and Suzie’s provides everything else you need for Chinese Mu Shu, Korean Barbecue, Indian Kati Roll, Spicy Habanero, Smokey Chipotle or Guerrero Herb & Lime. Each kit contains all the Fixin’s you need, such as jackfruit, seasoning packets, Mashu sauce, cheese paneer, vegetable blend, chutney, barbecue sauce, refried rice and beans, salsa con queso,
WooBamboo: The Toothbrush Company That’s So Much More How many people have their mothers to thank for an idea that will literally disrupt an industry? Unless you’re Steve Hyde, the Chief Operating Officer of WooBamboo, then your chances seem pretty low. About idea that started it all, Hyde said, “About eight or nine years ago, I was talking to my mother in Australia about my brother who was struggling for many years to make a bamboo-framed bicycle. She said, ‘I don’t know why he doesn’t make something simple, like a bamboo toothbrush.’” Steve couldn’t shake the idea, and decided to present the idea to his friend Christopher Fous, who laughed at the absurdity of the suggestion. But after a trip to his local gro-
cery store, Fous noticed a gaping hole in the oral care market. An environmentally friendly option simply didn’t exist. Christopher jumped on board shortly thereafter and came on as the creative mind behind WooBamboo and is the current Chief Executive Officer. Together Hyde and Fous started in a garage with their initial order of 10,000 bamboo toothbrushes (backed by Thomas Burt, a longtime friend, financial guru and current Chief Financial Officer). That was Earth Day 2013. Today, WooBamboo is a 10-person team that sells an average of 10,000 brushes a day. The company’s products now expand beyond just bamboo toothbrushes to include
Pocas Debuts Five-Flavor Berry Juice Drink Think outside of the box. Why do you think one fruit provides only one flavor? Find five flavors in a berry with Pocas’ brand new item, FIVE. Pocas International is debuting its five-flavor omija juice drink. Omija, also known as schisandra, means “five flavor berry” in Korean. The berry gives you five different flavors: sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy. Besides its unique taste, it has long been used
as a traditional medicine in East Asia for a variety of ailments. In addition, recent research and studies identify its health benefits as boosting the immune system, liver and kidney function. FIVE is made in Mun Kyeong, South Korea where top quality omija is produced. The drink is non-GMO, with no preservatives, no artificial color, no artificial flavors and no artificial sweeteners. It is dairy free,
coast of West Africa. Historically known as “Chocolate Island,” São Tomé is where some of the finest cocoa in the world originates. The organic line is made with a higher cocoa content (85 percent), which means less sugar content and a rich, smooth flavor. This line is not only Fairtrade Certified, certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, certified by the Non-GMO Project and vegan, but it is additionally made without palm oil, soy or artifi-
etc. Each half pallet display includes 270 units containing 4 x 15.5-ounce Fixin’ Kits. Your favorite nosh sits best on a Suzie’s Flatbread with flavor profiles that include Sprouted Multiseed or Pretzel Top, Kamut & Sesame, Kamut with Rosemary and Spelt Multiseed. Ancient Grain Flatbreads are made with whole grains, are non-GMO, kosher and delicious. Half pallets consist of 260 units containing two 14-ounce trays. When a Flatbread just won’t do, make it a Suzie’s Organic Cracker. Suzie’s Organic Crackers club half pallet program consists of 308 units each containing 20 individual serving packets, keeping them fresh right up until time of use. What falls between a Flatbread and a Cracker? Suzie’s Thin Cakes. All your favorites: Organic Corn Quinoa & Sesame, Or-
items such as biodegradable floss and natural toothpastes in unique, delicious flavors. WooBamboo products can be found in over 50 countries and 19,000 retail stores internationally. Not bad for a joke made at your brother’s expense. It’s been like “drinking out of a fire hydrant,” Burt said about the company’s quick growth. He claims it’s due to the intense focus on physical retail locations versus solely online sales. “We thought we’d make the biggest impact and have the best business model by going after people who are going to put in an order for 40,000 to 50,000 toothbrushes.” He wasn’t wrong. “Everything we provide our consumers with is an alternative to what they’re already gluten free, soy free and vegan. Your customers can enjoy five different flavors: Pure Schisandra (Omija), Schisandra & Korean Pear, Schisandra & Mango, Schisandra & Pineapple and Schisandra & Watermelon. The berry’s complex flavor combination with natural fruits makes a refreshingly delicious drink. Pocas International is passionate about delivering premium healthy beverages and specialty foods to its customers with only top-quality products. The mission of Pocas
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cial flavors. The new line includes 4 bars – 85% Dark Chocolate with Refreshing Lemon, 85% Dark Chocolate with Turmeric and Ginger, 85% Dark Chocolate with Blueberry and Popped Quinoa, and 85% Dark Chocolate with Cocoa Nibs – each with ingredients that chocolate explorers will enjoy when aiming for a delicious treat that complements a healthful lifestyle. The suggested retail price for the 2.8ounce organic bar is $4.50.
Visit Divine Chocolate at booth #5142. For more information, email sales@divine chocolateusa.com.
ganic Brown Rice and now Lentil. Each half pallet consists of 210 units containing four Thin Cakes each. Need more than a snack? Suzie’s shelf stable RTE Organic Quinoa meal is the answer. Half pallet consists of 162 units containing six 8-ounce Organic Olive Oil & Sea Salt Quinoa. Each serving contains 8 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber, is healthy, delicious and warms in the microwave in 60 seconds. Suzie’s RTE Quinoa Meals are a perfect side dish for two or meal replacement for one. Suzie’s – Innovation you can taste, innovation for your health! Innovation that drives sales!
For more information, visit booth #1029, go to www.goodgroceries.com, email info@goodgroceries.com, call 718.768.0821 or follow the company on social media. using,” Fous says. “With over 7 billion people in the world, that’s a lot of mouths, that’s a lot of plastic, and lots of toothpaste containing toxic material. So, we’ve replaced all of these with products that are part of the solution, not the problem.” The idea behind WooBamboo, no matter how large it grows, seems to remain the same. Inspire everyday people to make simple, easy steps in a more eco-friendly direction without disrupting their routines or pocketbooks. “We like to feel like we’re in the inspiration business,” Fous says. “Our mission is not to make sure people use toothbrushes. It’s to help people make small changes to make the world a better place.”
Visit WooBamboo at booth #3203.
is to study global market trends of healthy foods and beverages on behalf of its customers and supply the best healthy products to its valued customers with the lowest price possible. Enjoy drinks that are way beyond refreshing and feel the mysterious harmony in every sip.
For more information, go to www.pocas.com or call 201.941.7900. Follow the company on Instagram and Facebook.
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San-J Releases Korean BBQ Cooking Sauce San-J, an eighth-generation family brand of Asian sauces, is expanding its cooking sauce line and adding Korean BBQ. San-J Asian Cooking Sauces are all verified non-GMO, certified gluten free by the GFCO, kosher certified and made with the best quality ingredients. With sweet notes and rich savory flavor, San-J’s Korean BBQ cooking sauce is in-
credibly versatile. It can be used as a marinade, stir-fry sauce or even a glaze. It has no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives. It will be the ninth sauce added to the Asian Cooking Sauce collection. “For over 200 years, we’ve been at the forefront of ingredient health. It’s always exciting when we are able to add to that and
Sustainability in the Deli Case: Climate Neutral Cheese Production Health benefits and clean ingredients are key drivers of consumer purchase decisions; transparency about ingredient sources, rBSTfree milk and health claims have become standard across the deli case. Today’s consumers are also pushing companies to address sustainability issues – from recyclable or compostable packaging to corporate policies that prioritize green energy and waste reduction. Global Web Index’s “Sustainable Packaging Unwrapped” study found consumers not only rate sustainable packaging as important
to their day-to-day shopping, but that it would also influence them to switch brands. Commitment to sustainable business practices is not only the right thing for the future, it also positively impacts brand perception and purchase decisions. TINE SA, Norseland’s parent company, won the Sustainable Brands Index Award in 2017 and 2019; the Index is the largest brand study on sustainability across Nordic countries. As a farmer-owned co-operative, TINE has always prioritized the well-being of its farmers and recognized environmental re-
Novacart’s Bakeable Packaging By Joe Miglia, General Manager, Novacart
Novacart is known for our full product line of bake and sell paper packaging. We have been leading the industry with quality and innovation by creating the standard, not following it. We only use the finest paper from renewable forests, which is only one of the reasons our products stand above the rest. Our innovations have led to one of our most sturdy lines that can handle just about anything someone can put into them. Our Ecos Series Baking Mold product line is a great way to ditch those metal pans without having to lose the benefit of baking
and selling in the same pan. We have a wide variety of sizes and many with optional lids. Our newest sizes are a Round 3-5/8” mold and a Square 3-1/8” by 3-1/8” mold, both 1-½” deep; both of these have optional lids. These new sizes are great for the single serve market and ideal for pies, cakes, brownies and even savory dishes like quiches or frittatas. This line of products can handle just about anything, including metal detectors. Trying to get away from metal muffin pans, our Muffin Tray System (NTS trays) is the way to do it. The NTS trays are a disposable paper muffin tray that has pressed in
Alternative Air Climate Controlled Chocolate Displays Manufactured in New Jersey, with standard options in over 500 different finishes and five standard sizes, Alternative Air gives all chocolatiers many options to make their display cases personal for each store application. The company offers assistance with fixture layout and design to the final install. Alternative Air has been there for hundreds
of chocolate stores since 1996. Now with a full lineup of fused glass displays, Alternative Air has taken the chocolate display case look to a new level. Chief Executive Officer James Lunstead explains that Alternative Air deals directly with the end user, giving them the best pricing and making the standard and even cus-
New Sauces from Dave’s Gourmet Dave’s Gourmet has been making great sauces for almost 27 years, has won 17 sofi awards and continues to innovate. The company wants to stretch what hot sauce and pasta sauces are on the market and give consumers more and better options. Founder of the company, Dave Hirschkop, commented, “In many cases we take years more to develop our products. This is be-
cause we have certain taste standards that must be met, or we just continue trying and innovating.” He continued, “Our philosophy over the last few years has been to not give up on products that we really believe in but overall that a product must be great or can’t have our name on it.” Dave’s Gourmet is an interesting company that originally created the super-hot sauce
create new sauces with the same degree of integrity in every bottle,” said San-J President, Takashi Sato. “We always strive for our all-natural sauces to be the foundation of a delicious and healthy meal. We love being invited to the family dinner table.” San-J is no stranger to creating unique and innovative cooking sauces. The full line of cooking sauces include Hoisin, Thai Peanut, Szechuan, Teriyaki, Sweet & Tangy, Asian BBQ, Orange and Mongolian, along with its classic
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and most-trusted 100 percent soy Tamari sauce (available in organic, reduced sodium, organic reduced sodium and lite) and Shoyu sauce. San-J also carries a line of brown rice crackers, Brown Teriyaki, and Sesame and instant soups, Miso and Wakame flavors. San-J is the go-to brand for recreating the authentic gourmet taste of easy Asian cooking at home.
For more information, go to www.san-j.com or find the company on social media.
sponsibility is essential for ensuring the health of future farms. Since 2007, TINE has reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 14 percent by choosing renewable energy sources for production and transportation and optimizing water, energy and fuel use. TINE’s objective is to use only renewable energy and fuel for production and transport by 2025, and to cut emissions by 40 percent by 2030. Westland, one of Norseland’s partner brands, has a sustainable vision for its future as well: a cheese with zero carbon footprint. This starts with maximizing sustainable packaging for its Old Amsterdam aged gouda products, but ladders up throughout
the entire organization. From green electricity powered by wind turbines to ripening warehouses outfitted with solar panels, it is steadily working towards becoming climate neutral. Consumers actively seek environmentallyfriendly products; commitment to sustainability is not just a passing fad. The green choices we make today move us all closer to a more sustainable, ethically-produced future of food.
grease-resistant cups. The cups are released from the frame by pressing out the cup or by sectioning the frame. These are a great way to cut out the mess of metal pans. Our Muffin Tray System is a wonderful way to bake directly in the package, making a complete unit to bake and sell all in one. Are you wanting to dress up your cupcakes or muffins without all the grease showing through? Introducing our new Elite Tulip Cups, which are created with a 70-gsm heavyweight paper, available in Black, Eggplant, Pumpkin, Pine and Cherry. They are designed to form a barrier to oil transfer, resulting in a Tulip Cup that has more rigidity and consistent color, which creates an exceptional look for your baked good. We know that many of our customers use
our molds for the bake and sell market as seen in grocery stores and retail bakeries, but our products can be used in a variety of applications, such as catering, restaurants and manufacturing. Our paper baking molds transport easily and dispose after one use, making them great for sweet as well as savory foods. Our PET-laminated line works great for quiches, lasagna and other savory dishes that make great to-go containers going from freezer to oven or microwave to table. Created from paper, a renewable source, Novacart products are a perfect solution for the food industry.
For more information, go to www.nova cartusa.com, call 877.896.6682 or email info@novacartusa.com.
tom cases fit in their budget. “Most people are shocked if they have been shopping around at how low our prices are and how high the quality is.” If you have a budget, as everyone does, using Alternative Air fixtures is always your best bet if you need standard or custom displays. The company’s engineering and service team is second to none and will help you before and after the sale. The company will make sure all your needs are taken care of
before they become a problem. Don’t just think of Alternative Air as a chocolate display manufacturer. Alternative Air also makes pastry cases, both dry and refrigerated, in the same quality and craftsmanship as it does in all the displays it manufactures. Keep Alternative Air in mind for the next time you need a display. The company will not let you down. Alternative Air makes your product look better and increases sales one display at a time. Proudly made in the USA.
niche in the early ‘90s with Dave’s Insanity Sauce, which continues to be a top seller. Dave’s then created many innovative products in its early years like The Adjustable Heat Hot Sauce (you can change the heat of the sauce by turning the top of the bottle), Lucky Nuts (every tenth nut is hot), Dave’s Private Reserve (hand signed limited edition sauces that sold for up to hundreds of dollars), Olives in Pain, Mad Mushrooms, Demented Dills and much more. In 2001, Dave’s added its signature line of
California fresh, premium, mostly organic pasta sauces. This was the result of Dave seeing a sea of red sameness in the pasta sauce aisle and wanting to shake things up. He started by creating sauces based upon heirloom tomatoes, including a golden colored sauce using yellow tomatoes. He then extended it to butternut squash, wild mushrooms, sweet basil and a few other sauces.
For more information, go to www.jarlsberg usa.com or www.norseland.com or call 203.324.5620.
For more information, go to www.daves gourmet.com.
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Fratelli Pinna Celebrates 100 Years For over a century, Fratelli Pinna has been handcrafting sheep and goat milk cheeses on the Mediterranean island of Sardinia, Italy. Founded in 1919 by brothers Giommaria and Francesco Pinna, today Pinna is a fourth-generation family-owned company, and the largest sheep milk producer in all of Italy. Milk from grass-fed sheep and goats is delivered daily from shepherds all over the island. These sheep and goats graze freely in the rolling hills and flatlands, feeding on in-
digenous wild grasses and herbs. The aromas are then transferred into the milk, giving it a uniquely complex and herbal flavor. Sheep milk is high in protein, calcium, potassium and Vitamins A, D, E, B and C. Both sheep and goat milk are easier to digest than cow’s milk. Traditionally known for its Pecorino Romano, Fratelli Pinna has a wide variety of cheeses, including fresh, aged and DOP sheep cheeses, as well as fresh and aged goat cheeses. Pinna’s Medoro (Pecorino
Interpac and Interpress: Co-Manufacturing and Distribution Interpac Technologies is your single-source solution for co-manufacturing, distribution and packaging. Headquartered in Northern California, Interpac works with sister company Interpress to combine package printing, co-manufacturing and distribution services.
Interpac Technologies Services Operating as an extension of your organization, Interpac enables customers to expand product lines or launch new products with minimal, upfront capital requirements in its state-of-the-art 260,000 square foot manufacturing and distribution facility. Interpac takes pride in providing a quick turnaround with unwavering quality and consistency. In addition, for project launches, Interpac’s New Project Manager guides customers through set-up, R&D trials and organoleptic testing. Customers simply ship their ingredients and packaging and Interpac coordinates the rest. For customers ordering printed cups
and cartons produced by sister company Interpress Technologies in California, customers save shipping costs and headaches as Interpress provides complimentary shipping to Interpac. Interpac is an SQF, organic, gluten free, kosher and biodynamic certified co-manufacturing facility. Interpac offers separate areas for blending, as well as for the filling of cups, bags, stand-up pouches and sachet packets. Additionally, Interpac fills a variety of oils, including coconut, olive, avocado, sesame and flaxseed on its specialty and edible oil production lines equipped for filling bottles, jars and bulk packaging. Quality and food safety are Interpac’s top priorities. The Quality Assurance Team maintains a multi-layered system of quality control processes to protect product integrity prior to entering the building. Ingredients and packaging materials are documented and stored according to allergen characteristics
Soft-Baked Cookies from J&M Foods J&M Foods proudly continues its family tradition and passion for good food by providing customers with the best tasting cheese straws and cookies in the market. As a family-owned business operating for roughly three decades, J&M Foods is happy to bring a little joy to its customers’ eating experience. J&M Foods currently offers 21 varieties of cheese straws and cookies as well as additional seasonal offerings. Working with various combinations of cheeses, chocolates, nuts, grains, fruits and spices, there’s never
a dull moment at J&M Foods. Its products are great for everyday pleasure and make the perfect gift. In addition, the company is always in the kitchen exploring new possibilities to tickle the taste buds and provide something new for its customers’ enjoyment. In keeping with the 100-year-old family recipe that inspired its great tasting Original Cheese Straws, J&M Foods is committed to maintaining its heritage of providing great products made from the finest ingredients available. All of its products are trans fat free and baked with care.
Principe Delivers True Italian Tradition Founded in 1945, Principe is a third generation, family owned Italian company, with over 70 years of tradition, experience and unique know-how. The company, famous for its innate ability to always move forward and constantly innovate while maintaining sacred respect for tradition, has quite an interesting history. After losing everything in WWII, the Dukcevich family was forced to flee its native home of Croatia and take refuge in Trieste, a multi-cultural port city in Northeastern Italy. This area, in the region of Friuli Venezia Giulia, is located on the Austro-Hungarian border and is enveloped by the Alps. Noticing the
unique culture and eating habits of their new home city, the Dukcevich family began producing and selling traditional recipe frankfurters as well as cooked and roasted hams to the locals, and the rest, as they say, is history! But they didn’t stop there. Today, Principe is the leading top quality producer of one of Italy’s most prestigious food products, Prosciutto di San Daniele. Principe’s ever-growing portfolio of products includes various ages of Prosciutto di San Daniele, Prosciutto di Parma and Prosciutto Italiano; an ample selection of cooked and roasted hams, Mortadella from Bologna,
Sardo Maturo DOP) has a wonderfully rich and nutty flavor with undertones of burnt caramel that impressed the judges at the 2018 World Championship Cheese Contest, who awarded Medoro Second Place in its class. Combining traditional cheesemaking methods with highly sophisticated and modern technology, Fratelli Pinna crafts an exceptional line of cheeses. Since 1919, it has been committed to spreading an authentic taste of Sardinia
and protective requirements. Interpac can pack point-ofpurchase display shippers and club store pallet displays and provides inventory management control, cross-docking, warehousing and order fulfillment. Interpac’s extensive capabilities as food co-packers and warehousing and distribution specialists provides a single-source solution delivered in a highly personalized manner.
Interpress Technologies Services Celebrating 30 years of experience and innovation, Interpress Technologies is a leading food packaging manufacturer specializing in formed paperboard containers and lids, wrapped cups, printed sidewalls and folding cartons with high impact graphics, “Made in USA” with certified sustainable paperboard. With specialized printing presses, forming machines and cup wrapping machines, Interpress produces packaging for many products, including oatmeal, soup, pasta, dried fruit, snacks, nuts and ice cream.
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around the world. Fresh product, such as traditional hand-ladled sheep milk Ricotta Fresca, is exported weekly by air from Italy. All Pinna cheeses are available through InterSource, a distributor with warehouses in New Jersey, Wisconsin and California. InterSource – great cheese ... better service!
For more information, go to www.fratelli pinna.com or email sales@inter-sourceinc .com.
Interpress continuously expands its capabilities to offer new innovative solutions and many product sizes are compatible to run on the Interpac filling lines. Interpress offers standard and microwavable paperboard cups, paperboard wrapped plastic cups (perfect for microwavable and refrigerated foods and products requiring additional shelf life) and the next generation of paper overcap lids (includes full color graphics on the lid rims and top panels). Interpress has an in-house Graphics, Prepress and Ink Department to ensure consistency and streamline production, and three U.S. locations serving customers worldwide. Interpac and Interpress Technologies look forward to helping to build your business.
For more information, call 800.929.9771, email inquiry@iptec.com or go to www .interpactechnologies.com.
The latest creation and something the company is very proud to add to the Janis & Melanie line of products comes in the form of a large, soft-baked cookie (3 inches in diameter). They’re made with butter, whole egg and a whole lot of love. Varieties include Chocolate Chunk, Brownie and Oatmeal Cranberry. Each carton contains eight 1 ounce cookies, which are individually wrapped. Enjoy them with milk, coffee, tea, ice cream or by themselves anytime as a snack. J&M Foods enjoys being flexible enough
For more information or to discuss a private label need, call 800.264.2278 or email sales@jm-foods.com.
Roasted Porchetta and Pancetta, Speck IGP AltoAdige, Bresaola, Cotechino and many other authentic regional Italian deli meats. Principe not only imposes higher restrictive standards on its products than most regulatory boards require, but also demands direct control over every step in the production process, from the development of free range natural farms to in-house de-boning and curing. This meticulous quest for perfection and constant innovation allows for dependable, consistent, top quality products and an exclusive, completely closed food safety system. With pro-
prietary animal farms, six production plants, two slicing facilities and export to over 40 countries around the world, Principe has certainly become Italy’s industry leader for premium deli meats. Principe Foods proudly launched a new portfolio of domestically sliced salumi for both retailers and foodservice operators throughout the county. The new domestic slicing lines mark a significant investment by the Dukcevich family, again providing substantial future company growth and spreading the long-standing tradition of excellence in the United States.
to handle all its customers’ needs. Located in a 32,000 square foot facility residing on 21 acres, it has room to grow along with its customers. Centrally located and nationally recognized, J&M Foods is an award-winning market leader within the specialty foods industry.
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Shrewd Food (Cont’d. from p. 1)
calorie delicious snacks that look and taste just like the snacks you loved as kids but with so many more benefits than you ever thought possible. The popular Protein Puffs and Protein Croutons are certified gluten free, egg free, peanut and tree nut free, non-GMO, kosher and keto friendly, with a wide variety of flavors from sweet to savory to spicy ... perfect to satisfy any craving. Boasting 90 calories, only 2 grams of carbohydrates and 14 grams of protein in each generous serving of savory Protein Puffs, Shrewd Food is the ideal snack for keto followers, diabetics, bariatric patients, fitness enthusiasts, health nuts, professional athHemp-Nutrition (Cont’d. from p. 1)
spoken, most people think of marijuana. Maybe it’s because hemp and marijuana both come from the same botanical family, ‘cannabis.’ Within the legal community, a definition has been created for the difference between marijuana and hemp, and it’s revolving around the THC content. More specifically, it’s the delta-9-tetrahydrocannbinol content. To be considered hemp, cannabis needs to have a THC level of less than 0.3 percent. Hemp extract, which contains all of the elements found in hemp, including CBD, has many healthy, natural benefits.
GN: What does hemp extract, or CBD oil, do? What is its potential? Once Again Nut Butter (Cont’d. from p. 1)
preservatives, cholesterol, trans fat and added oils, plus gluten-free certified, vegan, kosher and part of the brand’s Honest in Trade program. An allergy-friendly addition to the brand’s lineup, Once Again’s new organic sunflower hemp butter is made with organically grown sunflower seeds, dry roasted for enhanced flavor and milled creamy to make your taste buds dance. Organic hemp oil gives this product a powerful boost of antioxidants, amino acids and Omega fatty acids, while just a bit of sugar and salt are added for Bella Sun Luci (Cont’d. from p. 1)
snack is made with simple, non-GMO, gluten-free ingredients, and at only 90 calories per serving, these bite-sized morsels are the perfect guilt-free snack. Bella Sun Luci’s plant-based jerky line is vegan, non-GMO, kosher and contains a good source of fiber, iron, Vitamin C, Vitamin K and an excellent source of potassium. There will be two delicious flavors derived Snak King (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Our team scours the world for only the finest ingredients made with handcrafted care and expertise. Our “Earthly” creations often include fresh organic corn harvested at its peak, gently cooked and ground to perfection. We often use organic brown rice in our snacks to produce a light, crisp result as well as golden and brown flax seeds for a unique nuttiness. These are just some of the many fine ingredients we love to share when crafting our very special The Whole Earth brand snacks.
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letes and kids. This year, Shrewd Food has officially put the “fun” in the functional food category by creating two exciting new product lines: PROTEIN DIPPERS and PROTEIN COOKIES. Launched in January 2020, the decadent PROTEIN DIPPPERS became a reality when the folks at Shrewd Food saw that there was a void in the market for great tasting, high protein chocolate snacks. Michael Goldstein, one of the company’s co-Founders and Shrewd Innovator explains, “Deciding to cover our Protein Puffs with chocolate was easy ... finding the best tasting chocolate to use was the hard part. We didn’t want to sacrifice anything just to say it was healthy.” The Shrewd Food team rigorously tested and found the ideal chocolate to make the
product a perfect combination of healthy protein and yummy candy! They’re offered in two mouth-watering flavors, Milk and Dark Chocolate, and have only 160 and 150 calories, respectively. Each 1.16-ounce bag of PROTEIN DIPPERS has an impressive 10 grams of protein per serving, and contains no egg, peanuts, tree nuts, corn syrup, artificial flavors or preservatives. Chocolate lovers around the world can now relax that their favorite candy won’t tip their scales. Shrewd Food’s family of healthy snacks is also growing to include the best tasting healthy cookie that the functional food category has ever seen or tasted. Introducing Shrewd Food PROTEIN COOKIES. These delectable cookies are made with prebiotics and a whopping one billion count of probi-
otics, plus the nutrients of a full serving of fruits and vegetables from 10 different sources, including spinach, broccoli, sweet potatoes, currants, blueberries and pumpkin. The two delicious cookie flavors that round out the Shrewd Food line of products are Oat & Berry and Oat & Chip. Each 1.65ounce bag has 8 grams of protein. Shrewd Food Products can be found in grocery stores, CVS stores, Costco and Amazon.com as well as in 11 countries around the world. Shrewd Food is the Smartest Way to Snack.
JM: There is a recently discovered system inside your body called the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), considered by many in the scientific community as one of the most amazing discoveries of our time. It has a self-regulating system whose primary goal is to restore and maintain a sense of homeostasis or balance. Supporting the ECS can have an unbelievable number of potential outcomes for a person. I believe that it is crucial that we do a great deal more research so that we can more properly define what it does, what is the optimal potency, and what are the right formulations to support the ECS properly.
JM: It’s not uncommon to find some companies making claims that basically look as though taking an oil with CBD and other cannabinoids can treat almost any disease. That is irresponsible and illegal, according to the FDA. There are rules against making such claims, and any company making these claims: they do not have the research to support them, and even if they did, it is not legal or permissible.
is the only thing needed. We don’t believe that CBD is this singular magic bullet that needs to be extracted at such high percentages from the hemp plant or that you should be concerned only with how many milligrams of CBD you consume. In fact, we don’t believe that more is better, and do believe that starting slow is more advisable. Everyone potentially may need a different number of milligrams to support their own body and ECS. One of my favorite phrases is, ‘Let food be thy medicine,’ by Hippocrates. The idea that food is what is best for us is so crucially important to embrace. We at HempFusion believe in a whole food perspective.
taste. Delivering 5 grams of plant-protein per serving plus a healthy dose of iron and potassium, Once Again’s organic sunflower hemp butter is also rich in Vitamin E thanks to both its sunflower seed and hemp oil ingredients. Available in creamy and crunchy varieties, Once Again’s new keto-friendly, organic blanched almond butters are the only blanched almond butters on the market and pack 7 grams of plant-based protein with just 1 gram of net carbohydrates. The product starts with almonds that have had the skin removed, taking with it most of the nut’s natural carbohydrates. The almonds are then dry
roasted until they reach peak flavor, resulting in a wonderfully rich almond butter that meets the needs of keto and paleo consumers, low glycemic index diets, and anyone looking for a truly natural, low-carbohydrate protein option. Gael J. B. Orr, Marketing-Communications and PR Manager, said, “We are excited to introduce these new products to market. In addition to featuring clean ingredients, wholesome nutrition and naturally delicious taste, the blanched almond butter also appeals to those following special diets like keto or paleo, and the sunflower hemp butter resonates with health-conscious consumers
GN: What are the benefits of hemp, or CBD for the Endocannabinoid System?
GN: Why is HempFusion™ different?
JM: The name HempFusion means that we take hemp and fuse it together with other things for comprehensive support. The crucial and most important difference is the philosophy that we go by. We don’t believe that CBD
from traditional jerky favorites with a sun dried tomato twist: Hickory Smoked and Sriracha. “The vegan population is growing and with it we are bringing forward-thinking foods that appeal to both vegans and non-vegans alike. We believe bringing sun dried tomatoes to the snack market, in this new and innovative plant-based jerky, marks the start of a health trend that’s here to stay,” says Mary Mooney, Owner of Mooney
Farms. “As with all of our products, we’re only using the highest quality ingredients to create a snack that customers will crave without any guilt.” Bella Sun Luci is a line of premium Mediterranean-inspired products created from authentic family recipes. The line includes a variety of deliciously sweet sun dried tomatoes, sun dried tomatoes in olive oil, sun dried tomato chipotle sauce, pasta sauces, bruschetta spreads, estate-grown
These delicious snacks are being introduced only to the savviest retailers this year. Look for special crafted selections such as Organic Garden Medley tortilla chips, a medley of tri-colored goodness, flavored with spinach, tomato, carrot, beets and flax seeds. We also offer the simplest ingredient decks of corn, oil and salt, all organic, of course, available soon in a beautiful blue corn rich in anthocyanins or a more traditional yellow corn tortilla chip. From product development to packaging and logistics, expertly staffed R&D and sales
teams are ready to serve your needs. Trust The Whole Earth to bring your natural and organic opportunities to reality, whether it’s with any of our wide range of Tortilla Chip styles, Extruded Snacks, Pellet Snacks (veggie-flavored chips), Popcorn, Popped Crisps, Kettle Corn, Caramel Corn or our ever popular Nut Clusters. Service and quality – we get it! Our customers are confident that we understand the importance of quality and food safety systems, including: HACCP-based Food Safety System, FSMA/USDA Compliance, GMP
Visit Shrewd Food at booth #8605. For more information, visit www.shrewdfood.com or follow @shrewdfoodco on Instagram and Facebook.
For more information, .hempfusion.com.
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who appreciate functional ingredients, such as hemp oil.” Once Again Nut Butter’s new nut and seed butters are currently available for retailers nationwide to carry. The blanched almond butter is sold in 12-ounce recycled glass jars for a suggested retail price of $14.49, and the sunflower hemp butter is sold in 16-ounce recycled glass jars for a suggested retail price of $6.49.
Visit Once Again Nut Butter at booth #1915. For more information, go to www.onceagain nutbutter.com, call 888.800.8075 or email Gael Orr at gorr@onceagainnutbutter.com.
olive oil, risotto, marinades and new vegan jerky. Bella Sun Luci is produced by Mooney Farms, a third generation, familyowned company based in Chico, California, that is rooted in quality, integrity and family values. Mooney Farms is the premier producer of sun dried tomatoes in the United States.
For more information, go to www.bella sunluci.com.
training and formalized verification, Computerized Recall & Traceability System, microbiological testing, Allergen Control System and others. Third party certifications include: SQF level 3, gluten free, certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, certified by the Non-GMO Project, kosher and Whole Wheat Council. You can count on The Whole Earth, dedicated to quality and expertise in the industry.
Visit Snak King at booth #1764. For more information, go to www.snakking.com.
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Naturkost USA (Cont’d. from p. 1)
nuts, dried fruit and other organic ingredients ready for the U.S. market. We have products and packaging for retail and offer products, ingredients and packaging for private label. The Naturkost Group, a global company with expertise in farm to fork products and know-how of cultivating, farming, processing and packaging ancient grains and other organic products and ingredients is excited to earn your business. Unlike many trading companies, Naturkost owns facilities in Peru, Mexico and Germany and warehousing in the USA to directly service its customers worldwide and support product needs in the USA. In business in the U.S. since 2015 and globally since 1987, the company engaged with ONE NATURE Organic, a German organic company to collaborate in the USA. ENZO (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Ricchiuti and I, representing the third and fourth generation of Ricchiuti Family Farms, sought to further diversify our agricultural business. Through industry research conducted by the University California Davis Olive Center, we discovered 98 percent of all olive oil consumed in the United States is imported. Further studies revealed a high percentage of the imported olive oil on American supermarket shelves continually failed to meet the sensory criteria for being officially classified as “extra virgin” as defined by the International Olive Council (IOC) and European Union (EU) standards. Therefore, with an earnest desire to craft and provide domestic consumers with the finest oil, we founded ENZO Olive Oil Company in 2008. Urban Accents (Cont’d. from p. 1)
of Urban Accents
Meatless Meals Any Night of the Week Each Urban Accents Meatless Mix takes only 15 minutes to prepare and provides the base for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian meal. Nearly 45 percent of people identify as flexitarians, or mostly vegetarians who limit their consumption of meat. Urban Accents aims to help them and others experimenting with vegetarian cooking by creating convenient favorites to add to their weekly culinary repertoire.
Inspired, Global Flavors Urban Accents is a flavor expert. Inspired by Honey Stinger (Cont’d. from p. 1)
than many might actually be aware of. In fact, there are numerous different types of sugar, and each one has its own unique properties and effects on the body. Similarly, there are countless different sources of sugar. But if you are an athlete, there is one in particular that you should be seeking out, as it offers special advantages for performance: honey. “Because of both its makeup and consistency, honey is easy to consume, easy to digest and also easily absorbed by the body, making it an incredibly efficient fuel source that is ideal for sports performance,” says Kayla Martin, M.S., R.D., C.S.S.D., and the director for performance nutrition services at Penn State University.
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Working with ONE NATURE Organic, according to Marc Netten, Chief Executive Officer of Naturkost USA INC., is a logical step into the packaged goods market to distribute those products through food, drug and mass market outlets and the specialty food trade. Alexander Krause, in charge of the U.S. expansion of ONE NATURE Organic, confirmed that their investment in a manufacturing site in Indonesia and Germany is an opportunity for both to collaborate in a product range that continues to see growth and innovation. Therefore, Naturkost USA is representing ONE NATURE Organic coconut products in the U.S. moving forward with the goal to together present product innovation and quality to U.S. consumers through distributor and retailer relationships. The ONE NATURE Organic facility in Bintan, Indonesia, which was completed in 2019,
manufactures, processes, prepares and packages organic coconut products. Products we will show are coconut waters with different flavor profiles, coconut milk drinks, coconut powders, functional coconut ingredients for hydration type applications and dried coconut chips. Both companies aligned because of similar values and philosophies in sustainability, protective farming, high standards in quality control, certifications and documentation. The sourcing teams collaborate and work together to assure that products are in accordance to U.S. regulations. Product testing, certifications such as GMO free, vegan, kosher and others are standard and are being enhanced as the market shifts. Besides offering fantastic products, the company maintains an office in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, warehouses in Chicago, Illinois, also California, and a customer support
team. Products will be inventoried to ensure that orders are processed quickly, if smaller quantities are desired. Container orders will come directly from the source to the customer by Naturkost providing all customs and shipping services. One of the key elements for both companies is the desire to enhance and create awareness of the impact farming has to the world. Not only are products being sourced from small co-ops and growers, but educational activities, financial support and continued education are passed back to those who own the lands. Both companies distribute “peace of mind,” as everything we source and sell is the absolute best. We guarantee it.
GN: What makes ENZO unique?
extra virgin olive oil. ENZO Olive Oil is also sanctioned organic by the United States Department of Agriculture, certified organic by California Certified Organic Farmers, kosher certified by Kosher Supervision of America, as well as certified by the Non-GMO Project.
line of pesto made with ENZO extra virgin olive oil. Lastly, our limited release of ENZO Crush extra virgin olive oil has been another celebrated addition. This highly sought-after oil begins with 100 percent estate-grown olives which are then milled with organic fresh clementines, organic Fresno chili peppers or organic basil. The result is exceptional, unfiltered extra virgin olive oil yielding a natural essence and aroma. Altogether, our family continually looks to enhance and expand ENZO’s product offerings to meet consumer demands.
VR: ENZO’s operation is vertically integrated, meaning the entire growing, harvesting, milling, bottling and shipping process is completed from start to finish on-site, producing one of the most premium organic oils available. The certified organic olive trees – planted in an optimal climate, similar to the Mediterranean region – are carefully nurtured year-round. Once harvested at prime conditions, the olives are transported immediately from grove to mill where the crush begins. As a proud member of the California Olive Oil Council and the American Olive Oil Producers Association, ENZO Olive Oil Company adheres to the most stringent standards in the world and shares in the organizations’ mission of promoting fresh, certified global travel, trendy restaurants, comfort food classics and street food, the company creates fantastic taste experiences crafted with natural ingredients. Its new Meatless Mixes are no exception. Taste buds will tingle with layered, nuanced flavors: Honey Barbecue Sloppy Joes, Sweet Black Garlic Korean BBQ Lettuce Wraps and Smokin’ Chipotle Street Tacos.
GN: How has ENZO evolved since 2008?
VR: ENZO Olive Oil Company is committed to the ongoing development of delectable provisions showcasing the bounty of California. With this is mind, our family launched a line of organic balsamic vinegars that pair perfectly with ENZO organic olive oil. We also introduced artisanal pantry items such as handcrafted almond butter made with Ricchiuti Family Farms’ almonds, as well as a with enough hearty bite to anchor the main dish.
Plant-Powered, Natural Ingredients Urban Accents uses natural ingredients. You can read the back of the pack and not only pronounce the ingredients listed, but recognize them too! Each serving includes a hearty 11 grams of protein. The soybased mix is flavored with natural herbs and spices and delivers a meat-like texture
Convenience for Curious Home Cooks As “your Culinary Wingman,” Urban Accents always has your back in the kitchen. Never a dump and stir, its products always help you actually cook, with confidence. Meatless Mixes have an easy recipe on the back of the package along with serving suggestions. With the addition of just a few fresh ingredients, its spiced, plant-powered protein provides a satisfying, out-of-the-ordinary culinary experience. Urban Accents removes the intimidating learning curve while still providing room for experimentation and personalization.
As Martin indicates, there are a number of factors that make honey a prime energy source for athletic performance. To start, it is a much purer sugar than many of its highly processed counterparts, like cane sugar or high fructose corn syrup. As athletes look to prioritize pure, ‘real’ foods that are less processed and feature quality ingredients, honey is an energy source that rises to the top. When it comes to high intensity activity, that pure, simple sugar source is exactly what you need to fuel your system. As Martin states, honey is incredibly easy to consume. It dissolves in your mouth, so you don’t even have to chew it, and it breaks down quickly and easily. This helps stave off digestion issues during activity, and also helps facilitate fast energy conversion.
Furthermore, honey offers the ideal combination of carbohydrates for quick energy. It contains two different sugar types, both fructose and glucose (along with water), which enables it to be more easily and efficiently absorbed by the body than other sugar sources. This rapid absorption makes it immediately available to use as fuel, and to restock glycogen stores in the muscles for sustained energy. How can you most effectively incorporate honey into your own training and daily life, to help take your athletic performance to the next level? Becci Twombley, R.D., CSSD, and the Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of Southern California, urges her athletes to utilize natural carbohydrates for energy, opt for real food over supplements, and to keep
For more information, visit booth #2452 in Hall C or go to www.naturkost-usa.com.
Visit ENZO Olive Oil Company at booth #5396. For more information, go to www.prfarms.com or www.enzooliveoil.com, email info@ prfarms.com or info@enzooliveoil.com or call 559.299.7278.
Feel Good Food Vegetarian diets are proven to have numerous health benefits and are more gentle on the planet. Urban Accents avoids chemicals and artificial flavors and crafts its products in small batches to provide products it feels good about selling and that you can feel good about eating. Real food. Good for you. Good for the environment.
Urban Accents’ new Meatless Mixes are available in three flavors: Honey Barbecue Sloppy Joes, Sweet Black Garlic Korean BBQ Lettuce Wraps and Smokin’ Chipotle Street Taco.
Visit Urban Accents at booth #N937. For more information, email customerservice@ urbanaccents.com. convenient, healthy fueling sources readily available, like Honey Stinger sports nutrition products. “I like to keep quick carbohydrate options in locker and weight rooms to help athletes top off energy stores,” she says. “Honey Stinger waffles and chews are good options because the honey is easy to absorb and provides sustained energy without a crash... By using natural carbohydrate sources like honey and fruit, we maximize the nutrient absorption and ensure each athlete will have energy available to maintain a workload intense enough to stimulate muscle growth.”
Visit Honey Stinger at booth #5178. For more information, email sales@ honeystinger.com or go to www.honey stinger.com.
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Summerhill (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Each year, the demand for Summerhill Goat Milk grows. As a result, our family of team members and goats has grown too – but our commitment to them remains unchanged. We think simple is better. Our goats are milked just steps away from the creamery, where we pasteurize and bottle the milk, and then ship it to our customers. Just pure, wholesome goat milk from our amazing goats. Simple. Our dairy is powered by clean, renewable energy, because we care about being AKC Commodities (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Initiative Programme alone has helped over 180,000 people to improve their living conditions. Ever since Azam Kadeer founded the Punjab-based manufacturing company Taj Food and AKC Commodities, Inc. in 1993, the Kadeer family’s declared aim has been to promote the spread of organic farming in Pakistan. Since 2003, the company has been certified organic for the American and EU markets.
Team to Support Organic Farmers In 2006, Taj Food stepped up its efforts to promote organic farming by setting up special teams to encourage organic farmers or support them in the conversion process. Today, 25 employees regularly work in teams of two, each specializing in rice, dried fruit or sesame seed, while also incorporating training courses to promote agricultural education and sustainability. The company is currently supplied by just over two dozen larger growers and a few small farmers. Most of them come from the The Spice Lab (Cont’d. from p. 1)
flexibility – from small bags and stand up pouches to glass jars, tins, plastic containers, gourmet gift sets and free-standing store displays. Products are processed and packed in its 75,000 square foot SQF certified facility in Pompano Beach, Florida, that includes a design department, research and development kitchen with full-time chef-in-residence, business offices and a product showroom. With six production lines, the company can produce more than 25,000 units per day. The Spice Lab is also certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for packaging organic spices. Jolly Llama (Cont’d. from p. 1)
sandwiches as well as an industry first: dairy- and gluten-free ice cream cones. In addition to being transcendently delicious, these frozen treats are non-GMO, guilt-free and satisfyingly smooth thanks to the inclusion of coconut cream. Jolly Llama ice cream sandwiches are available in Vanilla and Cool Mint Chocolate Chip, in packs of four, while ice cream cones are available in Fudge Sundae and Caramel Chocolate Chip, in packs of three. As Americans grow more conscious of health and environmental causes, Jolly Llama continues to push the boundaries of frozen treats by reimagining timeless and refreshing snacks for families to enjoy regardless of their dietary restrictions. Jolly
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good stewards. We are a Certified Humane® family farm, because we think that milk from happy goats just tastes better. Our customers can drink our milk knowing it comes from a safe place that cares for the health and well-being of our goats. You can enjoy our goat milk with total peace of mind, knowing it was brought to you in the most sustainable, humane way possible. Why goat milk? Summerhill Goat Milk is 100 percent pure nature made milk. Nothing is added in or taken out. It is naturally a good source of protein, as well as calcium, potas-
sium and Vitamin A. Goat milk contains less lactose and milder proteins than cow milk, making it easy to digest and even easier to enjoy. One of our priorities here at Summerhill is customer relationships. We love to hear from our customers when they call the number on the bottle or send us an email. We answer the phone directly and maintain those relationships personally. We are so thankful for our customers and wouldn’t be where we are today without them. We believe that everyone should be able to experience the benefits of high-quality
goat milk, so we are thrilled to bring our products to a greater number of customers each year. The simplicity and efficiency of our operation help us keep our goat milk accessible to as many people as possible, all while maintaining the quality and taste that customers have come to expect from us. From goat to glass, we are committed to providing our customers with high quality goat milk, from our wonderful goats.
surrounding province of Punjab, Sindh and the Hunza Valley found in the middle of the Himalayas.
health services, and also emergency aid in the event of weather or environmental disasters.
sify its activities even further in the coming years: “If we can supply only half the population in Punjab with clean drinking water, it will be an enormous service for the people.”
Covering Certification Costs for Growers Taj Food financially supports its suppliers, not only with fair wages for work and products. Taj Food also bears the additional costs incurred by the conversion to organic food. Thus, the certification costs are borne by the company, as Azam Kadeer emphasised in a discussion on the subject at the Organic Forum of Anuga 2019. The farmers could not raise the money they needed. The company levelled the cultivation areas for the farmers and they paid only half the costs in comparison. Taj Food provided free of charge machines necessary for no-tillage as a sustainable method of rice cultivation.
Long-term Assistance Through Deep Water Pumps The AKC/Taj Family invests into deep water pumps to villages and schools as sustainable and cost-effective efficient water systems. As part of the Water Initiative Programme, 25 such systems have been installed in different regions of Punjab. The costs would be around 1,500 to 2,000 euros per unit. The foundation helps with the installation of water hand pumps and electric pumps as well as storage tanks. Drilling for the water supply goes to a depth of about 150 meters to use the groundwater. In most cases, the groundwater is then suitable for consumption; otherwise water filters are installed.
For more information, visit booth #891 or go to www.summerhilldairy.com.
Taj Food: 17 Years of Organic Food from Pakistan In 1993, Taj Food was founded in Gujranwala in the Pakistani province of Punjab, two years after its owner, Azam Kadeer, established the import company AKC Commodities in New York. Today, the family-owned company Taj Food is the largest organic supplier from Pakistan and exports approximately 13,000 tons of organic products per year to all parts of the world. Sales markets are Western and Eastern Europe, Middle East, Asia, Australia, North America, Africa, Central and South America. The main part of organic rice exports, 75 percent, is organic rice, from long grain, round and medium grain to red and basmati grain, or parboiled rice. Organic dry fruits and natural and hulled organic sesame seeds are also supplied.
Taj Welfare Foundation The non-profit Taj Welfare Foundation was founded nine years ago, also near Lahore. Its founders and supporters are the Taj Food owners, employees and affiliates. The foundation maintains numerous projects. It is concerned with schools and education, access to
Guaranteed Water Quality In order to guarantee the water quality, it is tested by several laboratories and has been classified as ‘excellent’ at all existing pumping stations. The foundation estimates that up to 180,000 people would have access to clean water. The foundation wants to inten-
The company is introducing boxed packets of air fryer kits sold as a mixed case of four flavors each. The Air Fryer Kits include a packet of seasoned rice flour and a packet of seasoned panko breadcrumbs to achieve that perfect crunchy coating. Flavors include Buffalo Spicy Cauliflower, Herb and Garlic Chicken, Lemon Pepper Chicken and Buffalo Spicy Chicken. The Spice Lab’s small resealing pouches are available in an extensive selection of conventional or organic spices, award-winning seasoning blends, gourmet salts, peppercorns and all-natural sugars. Measuring 4.5 by 6.75 inches, the bags hold up to two ounces and come punched for ease in hanging. Choose a full color label or imprinted
bag, depending on quantities. The company also is offering a Mobile Merchandiser, a free-standing rotating display rack holding 40 products packed in these small bags. Expanding on the popularity of its Everything + More bagel topping blend that includes chili flakes for a touch of heat along with sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion, garlic and sea salt, The Spice Lab’s chef has created other flavorful blends. New options include the mildly spicy Jalapeño, the sweet dried Tomato or the mild onion Scallion. Like all The Spice Lab seasonings, these allaround blends are all-natural and OU Kosher and come in a choice of packaging options. As a woman-owned and family-run busi-
ness, The Spice Lab takes great pride in being one of the world’s premier suppliers of sea salts and seasoning blends. Its extensive product line includes salts, award-winning seasonings and rubs, premium spices, peppercorns, natural sugars, loose teas, Himalayan salt shot glasses and plates, regional brands, private label and a wide array of corporate gifts. The company’s high-quality brands can be found in grocery, gourmet, specialty gift shops, foodservice, club, major retailers and online through Amazon and www.spices.com.
Llama’s coconut cream sandwiches and cones satisfy the growing demand for dairyfree products and empower ice cream lovers to be freed from their lactose and gluten sensitivities. According to the Dairy-Free Ice Cream Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report, the global dairy-free ice cream market size was valued at $455.9 million in 2018 and is anticipated to expand at a CAGR of 14.8 percent. “Increasing awareness about health, rising incidences of lactose intolerance and other milk-related health issues, and socialization trends are expected to fuel the market growth in the forecast period,” the report says. “Rapid increase in commercialization, along with growing plant-based milk production, is a key factor propelling the demand in non-
dairy ice cream market. Product innovation for enhancing taste and technological advancements in the industry provide a positive perspective to the market.” Jolly Llama’s expansion into ice cream sandwiches and cones extends from the brand’s success with its popular gluten-, dairy-, soy- and GMO-free sorbet pops, which are now available in pineapple, mango, blackberry, strawberry and raspberry sorbet flavors. Made with whole fruit, each serving is only between 70 and 80 calories. Jolly Llama is the all-natural family member of Casper’s Ice Cream, a hometown legacy ice cream brand celebrating 95 years of experience in the ice cream business. Since the company was formed in 1925 by Casper Merrill, after he created the first ice
cream sundae on a stick, Casper’s Ice Cream has continued to grow, innovate and align with ice cream novelty lovers across the nation. “Jolly Llama is a great example of how we, at Casper’s, are dedicated to continuing to push the envelope of the frozen treats industry,” said Casper’s Ice Cream Chief Executive Officer, Paul Merrill, the grandson of Casper Merrill. “By leveraging our rich history in innovative ice cream creations, we are able to confidently explore new markets and products that bring the joy of frozen treats to all Americans, regardless of their dietary requirements or preferences.”
For more information, visit booth #2558.
For more information, contact Gary Oliver at 954.275.4478 ext. 108, email sales@ thespicelab.com or go to www.spices.com.
For more information, visit booth #5398 or go to www.thejollyllama.com.
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Western Foods (Cont’d. from p. 1)
mill. Its parent company, Western Milling, based in Goshen, California, is one of the largest privately held feed companies in the world with multiple facilities throughout the Western United States. Western Foods started business in 2010 and has grown exponentially, riding the wave of the glutenfree trend. Its dedicated gluten-free rice and ancient grain mill and blending facility have all the necessary quality certifications in order to provide safe products with less than 10 parts per million of gluten. Western Foods’ dedicated gluten-free facility conforms to the California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF), SQF Food Safety and Quality and also has halal and kosher certifications. In addition, the company is a member of the Whole Grains Council and Las Olas (Cont’d. from p. 1)
caramels made with True Source certified pure wildflower honey (instead of corn syrup) blended with fresh cream and real butter for a premium, delicate and more wholesome alternative to other caramels in the market. The milk chocolate flavor is the first of its kind for Money on Honey; its previous lineup exclusively included dark chocolate varieties. Milk Chocolate French Sea Salt was inspired by the overwhelming popularity of its Dark Chocolate French Sea Salt vaLK (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Just added to its more than 2,500 SKUs is a full line of themed packaging for the supermarket perimeter that empowers category managers to locally pack fresh, convenient meal solutions. Some of the new packaging is both recyclable and compostable, requiring no separation – an industry first. Elkay® Plastics Co, Inc. is rebranding itself as part of what the company called, “a renewed commitment to core capabilities and customer engagement.” Dream Pretzels (Cont’d. from p. 1)
provide 5 grams of protein per 1-ounce serving as well as 3 grams of fiber, making them an excellent nutrient-packed snack. Now, anyone looking for the classic pretzel snack they love can also get the protein they are looking for in one delicious product. “Protein, especially plant-based protein, is a hot nutrition trend, with research pointing to its role in promoting satiety, reducing disease risk, preserving lean muscle mass and more,” says Gilad Zilberberg, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Dream Pretzels. “We know protein is important to consumers and we’ve come up with a great-tasting, better-for-you snack Teekanne (Cont’d. from p. 1)
both healthy and tasty. Teekanne is introducing to the U.S. its new range of organic teas. Teekanne’s new organic tea line packaging has a fresh, young and chic flair aimed to capture the attention of tea lovers everywhere. The new flavors offered are Start Your Day (mate, spearmint and lemon peel),
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certified by the Non-GMO Project. Western Foods is dedicated to milling hypo-allergenic rice flours, long, medium and sweet (glutinous) together with ancient grains and legumes focusing, but not all-encompassing, garbanzo bean, sorghum, millet, quinoa, amaranth and teff, creating turn-key custom ready formulations in the gluten-free snacks and baked goods arena. Western Foods has two state-of-the-art inline mills to produce organic and conventional flours utilizing specialized Japanese style rice milling techniques to manufacture to the tightest granulations such as meal, coarse, fine and extra fine specifications. Product offerings include reduced micro flours, lowering micro counts on both rice and ancient grain flours together with pre-gelatinized (which is pre-cooked rice flour).
Western Foods’ latest product offering, Púro, is a highly effective reduction process for salmonella, mitigating the microbiological risk associated with raw commodity flours. Púro can reduce harmful bacteria, pathogens, mold, E. coli, yeast and microbes. The natural chemical free process is gentle on ingredients to ensure that the physical and organoleptic characteristics (flavor, texture, appearance and performance) and overall functionality of Western Foods’ flour products are protected and maintained. Western Foods’ customers have become accustomed to reliability throughout the extensive product line when it comes to starch quality, enzyme activity, and of course gluten-free (<10.0ppm gluten). Western Foods’ new Delta Region facility in the South-Central states has an excellent
riety and consumers’ growing demand for milk chocolate flavors. With less than 50 calories per piece, Money on Honey’s new Milk Chocolate French Sea Salt variety is sure to create a buzz among caramel and milk chocolate lovers alike. Money on Honey believes in harnessing the power of honeybees to make the world a better place. Those hardworking honeybees not only provide the unprocessed golden sweetener that makes Money on Honey so special, but they are also responsible for the pollination of one third of the food the world eats. Every year, parasites, pathogens, pesti-
cides and poor nutrition contribute to the deaths of an average of 40 percent of honeybee colonies in the United States. To help save the bees, Money on Honey has partnered with Project Apis m., Seeds for Bees and The Bee and Butterfly Habitat Fund. For every product sold, Money on Honey makes a donation to support the health and vitality of the honeybee population. Money on Honey’s donations help fund research and provide habitat to improve honeybee colonies and ensure we have healthy, delicious crops (and plenty of honey, too) for generations to come.
Given the new range of food packaging products the company recently introduced, its new brand, LK ® Packaging, also reflects its long-standing strategy of energizing the packaging supply chain with readily available, state-of-the-art packaging solutions. “We understand packaging can be the best tool to attract and engage the consumer, while also driving product and store differentiation,” said LK’s Food Packaging Director, Matt Banghart. “That’s why we continue to help brands and retailers build greater customer loyalty, and ultimately, greater rev-
that delivers. If you’re looking to boost your protein intake, Protein Pressels are an excellent option.” Snacks have become one of the hottest categories in the food business. Today’s consumers reach for snacks throughout the day, to refuel after a workout, to power through the workday and even in place of eating traditional square meals. But they are also looking for snacks that deliver on nutrition and taste. “Our main goal was to create a savory snack with high nutritional value, especially protein, without compromising the familiar, beloved taste of pretzels that consumers are drawn to,” said Yael Dror M. Sc., Clinical and Physiological Dietitian for Dream Pret-
Calm & Relax (honeybush, lemon balm and hops), Sleep & Dream (lemon balm, peppermint, lavender blossom), Spritz Up Your Life (ginger infusion with turmeric), You’re My Berry (raspberry and cranberry) and Swinging Green (green tea with moringa and lemon). From leaf to pot, Teekanne sources its own ingredients, blends at its own factory, tests for 100 percent purity and uses all eco-
enue with packaging programs, not just products.” One such program, called #ReadyFresh™, arms grocery-category and even convenience-store managers with a way to present a continuous theme for their freshly prepared, on-the-go eats. Another similar program from LK, called Ready. Chef. Go! has been a popular feature in many supermarkets across the country for locally packed, readyto-cook meals. Both packaging programs now include non-plastic options that are either recyclable or compostable.
zels. Pressels provide the taste of traditional pretzels but are pressed to make them an extra-crispy, light, bite-size snack. Homestyle small batch baked and never fried, they are lower in fat than ordinary chips and lower in sodium than regular pretzels. All Pressel products are certified by the NonGMO Project, vegan friendly and free of trans-fat, MSG, preservatives and artificial ingredients. Now, that wholesome goodness also comes with a good source of protein and fiber from a carefully chosen combination of beans and legumes. “The innovative combination of beans, red lentils, pea and grains in Protein Pressels creates high nutritional value unlike
friendly packaging. It is FSC certified as well as 100 percent organic. Bringing the goodness of nature into everyday life, Teekanne sources its ingredients where the tea leaves, herbs and fruits naturally grow. Improve your day or evening with every little sip. Let the iconic 1882 tea pot lead you toward greater balance as you ingest each and every unique flavor profile. There are 20 wrapped tea bags in each box with six boxes
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multi-modal transportation system, including two rail lines (Burlington Northern Santa Fe and Union Pacific), 13 common freight carriers with five terminals, and the Port of Pine Bluff, a slack water harbor located on the Arkansas River. Pine Bluff is 38 miles from Little Rock, Arkansas, and 137 miles from Memphis, Tennessee. In the Fall of 2019, Western Foods acquired the U.S. operations of American Sunny Foods, Inc. consisting of the business associated with operating a processing facility in Stockton, California. The company also offers retailers both branded or private label flexible package options for gluten-free mixes, snacks and other related products.
Visit Western Foods at booth #N2052. For more information, call 530.601.5991 or go to www.westernfoodsco.com.
The new Milk Chocolate variety joins Dark Chocolate French Sea Salt, Dark Chocolate Roasted Peanut, Dark Chocolate Crispy Brown Rice and Dark Chocolate Toasted Coconut Almond. All five delicious flavors of Money on Honey are available individually wrapped in a 4-ounce stand-up pouch and have a suggested retail of $4.99. Make a beeline for booth #N439 to sample all five buzzworthy flavors! For more informtion, visit booth #N439, go to www.moneyonhoney.com, call 800.213.0754 or email orders@lasolasbrands.com.
“Plastic is still, in many ways, the best way to protect and preserve food at an affordable price,” said LK’s Product Manager, Doron Chertkow, “but for those looking to align their value proposition with their customers’ Earth-first motivations, we’re proud to be able to offer FSC-certified, recyclable paper-board packaging and our new COMPOSTA™ [compostable] products.”
For more information, contact Matt Banghart, Director of Food Packaging, LK Packaging at m.banghart@LKpkg.com or 800.809.8393.
many other salty snacks,” said Dror. “These four plant food sources create a combination that has higher nutritional value than each one of them separately – you get all nine essential amino acids and 5 grams of protein right in the palm of your hand.” Protein Pressels are available in two delicious flavors: BBQ and Sea Salt. Perfect for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, those with an active lifestyle, busy moms, college student and kids’ lunch boxes, new Protein Pressels are available in 7.1-ounce bags and can be found in select retail locations nationwide as well as online on Amazon.
Visit Dream Pretzels at booth #N1834.
in each case. Contact Niche Gourmet at 800.875.5557 or sales@nichegourmet.com and let its sales associates help you create the finest tea selection for your retail operation, your e-commerce business, your restaurant or café. For more information, visit booth #5323, go to www.nichegourmet.com, call 800.875.5557 or email sales@nichegourmet.com.
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granola line and has added a new spice line. It markets to co-op and independently owned grocery stores that value working with an employee-owned, environmentally conscious company that manufactures its own products. Tierra Farm provides the highest quality of certified organic products for its customers to sell. What it provides, though, beyond its products, is a socially conscious, community-oriented and environmentally aware way of business.
such certified companies worldwide. Achieving the certification tells vendors and customers that the Tierra Farm business model includes understanding that the company will affect more than business – that in fact, it has impact on its workers, community, environment and customers. Tierra Farm B-Corp Certification means it is meeting the highest standards in business beyond profit by making employee benefits and charitable giving as important as input materials and supply chain. It means the company is about people and community as well as fiscal success. Tierra Farm manufacturers and distributes only certified-organic products grown with-
out synthetic pesticides, genetically modified organisms or chemical fertilizers. This commitment sustains biodiversity, conserves freshwater and enhances the soil. The company generates over 70 percent of its electricity from solar panels and recycles over 60 percent of manufacturing waste. Its boxes are composed of recycled cardboard and its deli cup containers are more than 50 percent recycled material – and both are recyclable after use. Tierra Farm is always on the lookout for better ways to protect the planet and has commissioned an initiative to remove plastics from its packaging by the end of 2021. In 2020, the company is relaunching its
ppb for arsenic and lead, meeting the FDA standard for drinking water. It is available in all DE levels. It packs its industrial products in pails, drums, totes and tank wagons. All products are available in organic with most having a conventional version as well. Suzanne’s promises that all of its products are made with only the highest quality organic and allnatural ingredients. Each one is sure to give your formulas and applications “Sweetness
the Way Mother Nature Intended™.” Suzanne’s Specialties also provides an extensive line of retail products. These include its best-selling Ricemellow Crème, rice syrup based fruit spreads, flavored rice syrups and traditional offerings such as organic molasses, organic agave syrup, organic honey, organic rice syrup and organic barley malt syrup. Pack sizes on its retail line range from jars to gallons to tubs to pails. It can service the
needs of a household, restaurant, small bakery or institution. Visit www.suzannes-specialties .com for more information on these products or to shop in its easy to use online store. With distribution facilities on both the East and West coasts and a diverse product line, Suzanne’s Specialties has the ability to service your company’s specific needs.
Acupuncture and Herbology). Dr. Clarke opened his medical clinic in Santa Monica, California, in 1988 with a general practice utilizing acupuncture, herbs, nutrition and homeopathy. One of the challenges Dr. Clarke faced was the lack of highquality supplements that were geared towards babies and children. This inspired Dr. Clarke to create his own formulas specifically targeting the unique needs of children. ChildLife Essential’s formulas are all gluten free and non-GMO, certified by the Non-
GMO Project. ChildLife Essentials has 19 supplements, all specifically formulated to address the issues and challenges kids deal with daily. First Defense is one of, if not the best immune formula ever developed for kids, while the Echinacea is the best tasting on the market. Aller-Care is great for support against environmental allergies. Cod Liver Oil provides 600 milligrams of DHA per serving – the highest level of any children’s supplement – and its delicious strawberry flavor
has no fishy taste. Organic Vitamin D3 for Babies and Infants is the only organic D3 on the market for babies. Childlife Essentials has a 19-year track record of success in providing parents the tools they need to help support their kids’ health needs and requirements.
of plant-based products. We are continually working with our family of farmers to create pure and simple products that will help you live better and happier. We take our time because we believe food can be both healthy and delicious at the same time. In the last year, PB2 has expanded its powdered peanut butter and powdered tree nut lineup, along with expanding into an entirely new category, plant protein powder. PB2’s newest products in the powdered nut butters
category are PB2 Pre+Probiotic and PB2 Pure. PB2 Pre+Probiotic mimics our flagship product, but with a more functional twist. Pre+Probiotics are added for digestive support, and monk fruit is used for sweetness so there is no added sugar. Per serving, PB2 Pre+Probiotic delivers 6 grams of plantbased protein and 1 billion CFU of probiotic. PB2 Pure was created after hearing consumer feedback stating the need for a no sugar, no salt option. PB2 Pure only has one ingredient: roasted peanuts. With PB2 Pure,
consumers are getting the same great 6 grams of protein per serving without the sugar and the salt. PB2’s new lineup of plant protein powders is called PB2 Performance. PB2 Performance consists of two products: PB2 Performance Peanut Protein with Cocoa and PB2 Performance Almond Protein with Madagascar Vanilla. What makes PB2 Performance so unique? You should never have to compromise taste for performance. PB2 Performance is packed with all your functional needs and tastes great! These great tasting plant
Atlantic Natural Foods (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Linda’s products unique?
veniently incorporate into their weekly menus.
Tierra Farm (Cont’d. from p. 1)
and nut butters. The company’s 1,100 customer base consists mainly of cooperatives and independently owned grocery stores that value working with an employee-owned, environmentally conscious company that manufactures its own products. Chief Executive Officer Todd Kletter says Tierra Farm is looking to meet potential customers and work with current customers while at the show. He adds that they are very proud of the company’s recently attained BCorp Certification, which measures the social and environmental performance of a company. The company is one of only 3,000 Suzanne’s Specialties (Cont’d. from p. 1)
agave syrup, inulin, cane sugar, invert syrups, molasses, honey, rice milk powder, coconut sugar and syrup. It also has the ability to make custom blends and sweetener systems. Suzanne’s Specialties Organic Honey has been verified by the Non-GMO Project. Suzanne’s Specialties offers an InfantSafe® version of all of its rice syrups. This unique product contains less than 10 ChildLife Essentials (Cont’d. from p. 1)
today’s world. ChildLife Essentials is the result of the 20plus years of extensive experience of Holistic Pediatrician Dr. Murray Clarke. Dr. Clarke was born in New Zealand and moved to America in 1984, where he began his study of medicine. He now holds licenses and doctorates in three fields of medicine: Naturopathic Medicine, Homeopathic Medicine and Chinese Medicine (including PB2 Foods (Cont’d. from p. 1)
DH: Atlantic Natural Foods, LLC (ANF) is a leading manufacturer of better-foryou, shelf stable foods. This year at Expo West, we’ll be showcasing two new additions to our Loma Linda line of heat-andeat Meal Solutions and Meal Starters – Butter Chick’n and Heartland Chili. Inspired by our comfort foods, the Butter Chick’n and Heartland Chili Meal Solutions feature warming spices and are packed with flavor. We’ll also be sharing our TUNO™, our plant-based, canned seafood alternative. Made with non-GMO plant-based protein ingredients, this protein-rich, gluten-free food features the light, flaky texture of seafood and is packed with nutritious omega 3s but is completely fish-free.
GN: What would you say makes Loma
DH: Currently, most plant-based protein options are priced at a premium, and therefore, not a fit for everyday consumers who seek great-tasting, plant-based foods but also have a value mindset. We at Atlantic Natural Foods are democratizing plantbased eating by making it easier and more affordable than ever before. Loma Linda offers a delicious line of shelf-stable, plant protein-based meals, developed in response to the growing demand for tasty and nutritious, plant-based foods which are also non-GMO and gluten free. Our PlantBased Protein Meal Solutions and Meal Starters are created to meet all consumers’ needs, no matter their taste preferences or budget. Providing quick, heat-and-eat convenience, Loma Linda foods can be prepared in 60 seconds, and deliver a true pantry staple that today’s families can con-
GN: Who is your target market?
DH: To be frank, our target market is quite literally every person on this earth. Countless studies show that we’ll need 70 percent more food by 2050 to feed more than 9 billion people, but don’t have the protein resources available to meet that demand. That’s why Atlantic Natural Foods is committed to offering new and delicious options for affordable, sustainable and healthy plant-based proteins to help feed future generations.
GN: What is the nature of your distribution?
DH: Loma Linda is available online at Amazon and at over 20,000 natural retailers and traditional grocers, including Walmart, Costco, Target, Earth Fare, Food
Visit Tierra Farm at booth #1913. For more information, go to www.tierrafarm.com or call 888.ORG.NUTS.
For more information, stop by booth #2437 or visit www.suzannes-specialties.com.
Visit ChildLife Essentials at booth #4249. For more information, call 310.305.4640, email hello@childlife.net or go to www.childlifenutrition.com.
protein powders include prebiotic fiber, 20 grams of complete protein per serving, contain only six ingredients, no sugar added and are certified by the Non-GMO Project, certified gluten free, certified vegan and OU Kosher. Eat what you love. Love what you eat. Choose PB2.
Visit PB2 at booth #N2040. For more information, go to www.pb2foods.com, call 229.387.7238 or email customer cservice@pb2foods.com. Lion, Harmons, Jewel, Redner’s, SaveMart, Sprouts, Wakefern and Woodman’s. As of this year, Loma Linda products are also available in the U.K., Australia and 17 other countries. GN: Where are you headquartered and manufactured?
DH: We are based in Nashville, North Carolina. We have manufacturing locations in Nashville, North Carolina, and Bangkok, Thailand. Both are FDA-approved facilities, kosher-qualified, non-GMO-assured, with SQF level 3 verification, as we uphold only the most stringent health and food safety practices.
Visit Atlantic Natural Foods at booth #5050. For more information, go to www.atlantic naturalfoods.com or email sales@atlantic naturalfoods.com.
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Buddy Fruits (Cont’d. from p. 1)
in the fall of 2019, encouraging kindness and empathy by donating Buddy Fruits Buddy Benches to local elementary schools. Parents can feel great about giving their children Buddy Fruits, not only because of the natural fruit health benefits, but because the company believes deeply in kindness through helping others. Through the Be a Buddy program, Buddy Fruits works with communities to champion friendship and healthy eating, while supporting causes that make the world a more inclusive and friendlier place, including initiatives against bullyNestFresh (Cont’d. from p. 1)
Particularly in the egg category, consumers have put companies under a microscope. However, for those already operating under ethical standards, this shift has helped to open up an important conversation about food nationwide. As a leader within the egg category, NestFresh has leveraged these conversations to further encourage shoppers to take a closer look at the products and brands they regularly support. For the Colorado-based company, this means drawing much deserved attention to its national network of regional family farms, the humane treatment of its happy, healthy hens and its commitment to sustainability. Ford’s Gourmet Foods (Cont’d. from p. 1)
“The sauce came from my Grandma’s recipe on my Dad’s side that was then modified by my uncle. The name of the sauce was inspired my Grandma on my Mom’s side. My mom, Sandi Ford, named the sauce Bone Suckin’ Sauce, because she was reminded of her mom eating chicken down to the bone,” said Patrick Ford, Vice President of Ford’s Gourmet Foods. And so, Bone Suckin’ Sauce (BSS) was born. A Western North Carolina style, tomatobased sauce sweetened with real honey and molasses, BSS also has a hint of apple cider vinegar, a hint of mustard, real bits of onions and garlic and little bit of horseradish. It has developed a substantial cult following. Alpha Packaging (Cont’d. from p. 1)
in both PET and HDPE plastics, has expanded our portfolio of sustainable packaging solutions to include more light-weighted containers, bottles made of plant-based bioresins and bottles made with certified oceanbound PCR. Certified ocean-bound plastics are bottles and jars collected from communities in developing countries where a commercial recycling stream has not previously existed. To be certified ocean-bound, these communities must lie within 30 miles of an ocean Great River Organic Milling (Cont’d. from p. 1)
bakeries and cereal manufacturers alike, more recently a demand for a fresh new brand in the retail space has encouraged the company to pursue just that. The year 2018 saw GROM take its retail product selection to over 100 SKUs, and it has received spectacular support from customers and distributors. The company intro-
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ing. The company is so proud the Be a Buddy program came to life through a series of inaugural Buddy Benches events at elementary schools in its backyard, not far from its headquarters in Mount Jackson, Virginia. It is also thrilled to be expanding its distribution platforms in 2020, as it continues to broaden its Buddy Fruits communities. Buddy Fruits knows fruit is perfectly good by nature. That’s why its fruit-first recipe is clean and simple, using only the highestquality ingredients and superior processing standards. Its fruit is sealed in BPA-free, preformed pouches that limit the risk of air exposure and allow the fruit’s natural sweetness
and freshness to shine through, without anything added in the process. All Buddy Fruits products are made without any preservatives, concentrates, colorings, artificial flavors or corn syrup. That means minimal processing and zero grams of added sugar. Buddy Fruits is certified by the Non-GMO Project and Smart Snack compliant. Its products are also allergen-free, and contain no dairy, no gluten and no nuts, making it a safe option for most children who love apple sauce. Perfect for on-the-go snacking, Buddy Fruits offers the ideal healthy option in backpacks or in hand, great for any time of the day. In addition to its convenient size, the
modern redesign features uplifting words of encouragement so kids don’t ever forget how awesome they are. New, playful illustrations are sure to make kids smile as they enjoy the freshest, purest products possible from Buddy Fruits. Buddy Fruits aims to help nationwide retailers meet the demand of supplying their communities with the healthiest snack options possible, while also encouraging less food waste at home and schools alike.
As a result of this increased awareness, we see consumers pushing beyond traditionally cage free eggs and instead prioritizing the health and wellbeing of the bird by choosing pasture raised eggs. Consumers are no longer taking the claims made about their food at face value. Rather, they are looking for justification, often in the form of third-party certification. This heightened pressure on the food industry has encouraged many retailers to require that the animal products in their grocery stores serve this need, both private label brands and otherwise – ultimately reaching beyond the egg category and into other parts of the grocery store, from desserts to condiments. On trend with this shift towards ethically
sourced ingredients, NestFresh is proud to deliver a line of new Pasture Raised eggs that appeal to today’s consumers who are seeking humane, sustainably produced products. We offer Pasture Raised Organic Eggs, Pasture Raised Non-GMO Eggs and Pasture Raised Organic Soy Free Eggs. Our entire line of Pasture Raised Eggs has also been Certified Humane by Humane Farm Animal Care as we’ve increased our standards for humane animal care. Whether consumers are concerned with a clean nutritional label, non-GMO claims or humane standards, NestFresh has made the conscious decision from its founding to bring each community it serves the best in ethically sourced eggs. This has guided deeper conversations with our consumers and has
encouraged them to take greater consideration in their purchasing decisions. With a robust Pasture Raised line at the helm of our product line, we’ve continued to do so successfully.
What’s the real secret of the secret sauce? “It comes down to simple, honest ingredients. We offered a gluten free, no high fructose corn syrup, non-GMO, delicious sauce long before it was the trendy thing to do,” said Ford. “And in every product since, we have stuck to that philosophy, and that matters to our customers.” BSS has been rated No. 1 by Food and Wine Magazine, Newsweek Magazine and recognized by countless other competitions and news outlets. The product offering has expanded over the years to include variety of sauces and marinades, seasonings and rubs, and a spicy and a sweet mustard, both of which were recently named National Champions by Illinois Barbecue Society. “The accolades from the industry and the
press are nice, but what really matters to us is what our customers say,” adds Ford. “We get messages from customers all the time – multiple generations enjoying BSS at a family barbecue or customers with celiac disease being able to enjoy barbecue for the first time because our original BSS is truly gluten free. Those real stories from real customers are everything to us.” The Ford’s decades-long commitment to quality products and exceptional service is netting great results. Sales of BSS have expanded into over 80 countries around the world and offered consistent growth and repeat customers year to year and through to partner distributors. The Fords have no intention of stopping there. Said Ford, “We know there are markets
or major tributary, and the region must lack a reliable recycling stream for #1 and #2 plastics (PET and HDPE, respectively). The plastic collected from these regions is then certified, cleaned, repelletized and made into new bottles that perform just like the plastics we trust every day. We are proud to partner with Bantam Materials and its OceanCycle line of Certified Ocean Bound post-consumer resins. Both the recycled PET and HDPE resins supplied by Bantam carry FDA Letters of Non-Objection, which means these PCR sources are approved for food contact.
As a respected manufacturer of plastic packaging for the pharmaceutical, nutritional, personal care and food industries, Alpha brings unmatched expertise, influence and passion to the sustainable packaging space. We work diligently with brand owners to define their sustainability objectives and identify the options that can work for their products. Our goal is to provide a sustainable packaging solution that meets the cost parameters and performance objectives for each product launch. Within our core portfolio, we can offer recyclable, recycled, plant-based or source-reduced pack-
duced a brand-new line of products ranging from Super Fine Almond Flour and Hemp Protein Powder to French Green Lentils and everything in between. Great River Organic Milling has its organic certified products which it is best known for, along with a line of certified gluten-free products, as well as a natural line of products. Now everyone can enjoy having GROM’s quality products in their pantry.
GROM’s selection of organic, gluten free and natural oat products are tested rigorously to ensure they are safe and free from glyphosate. It understands the responsibility it has to help the consumer protect their family’s food supply. Great River Organic Milling continues to service the baking and cereal world with organic, non-GMO stone ground flours and blends, with the motto ‘Nothing Added, Nothing Removed’ at the heart of its quality
Visit Buddy Fruits at booth #N217. For more information, email sales@buddyfruits.com or go to www.buddyfruits.com.
About NestFresh NestFresh Eggs is a specialty egg company that produces a full line of shell, liquid, dried and hard cooked egg products. Its organic, pasture raised and free range eggs are available in branded, private label and bulk packaging. The company was the first to develop eggs certified by the Non-GMO Project.
Visit NestFresh at booth #1768. For more information, go to www.nestfresh.com or follow the company on social media. and customers we still have not met. And we know there are ways to extend the reach of BSS through continued innovation and evolution of our products. We are excited to see where the future will take us.” Bone Suckin’ Sauce is distributed by Ford’s Gourmet Foods – a fourth generation, Raleigh, North Carolina-based family business that creates some of the world’s greatest tasting gluten-free foods, including the internationally acclaimed Bone Suckin’ Sauces, Fire Dancer Jalapeno Nuts and Southern Yum.
For more information, visit booth #5321 or set up an appointment with the BSS team by calling 919.833.7647 or emailing sales@bonesuckin.com.
aging and decorating for a wide variety of industries. We are also stocking select SKUs in 100 percent post-consumer PET resin and making those bottles and jars available with low minimum order quantities. Alpha will be featuring its sustainable packaging options in booth #4557 and filling orders for sample packs.
Visit Alpha Packaging at booth #4557. For more information, go to www.alphap.com, call 800.421.4772 or email marketing@ alphap.com.
ethics. The company would like to take this opportunity to thank its partners, suppliers and friends for their support. If you want to Bake Great, call on Great River!
Visit Great River Organic Milling at booth #2634. For more information, go to www.greatrivermilling.com or email contact@greatrivermilling.com.