EIN Presswire: Organic Food Live Feed Press Releases

Giovanni Food Company Goes Green With Renewable Energy Certificates From Constellation Energy and Joins Green-e Marketplace

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 23:42:16 +0000

Giovanni Food Company Goes Green With Renewable Energy Certificates From Constellation Energy and Joins Green-e Marketplace

PR Newswire

SYRACUSE, N.Y., Feb. 7, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Giovanni Food Company of Syracuse, NY has recently partnered with the Green-e Marketplace. The company's purchase of Green-e® certified renewable energy certificates sourced from domestic wind generation qualifies it for the program. By participating in Green-e Marketplace, Giovanni Foods can now display the Green-e logo to inform its customers of its commitment to clean, renewable energy.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120207/NY49537)

Giovanni Food Company will promote the Green-e logo on their newest premium brand of pasta sauce, Greenview Kitchen. This new brand consists of four all-natural pasta sauces and three organic pasta sauces. The products are all-natural, gluten free, Kosher Pareve, and have a unique package with a great taste. The organic sauces are certified organic by QAI and contain all non-GMO ingredients.

Giovanni Food Company, Inc. will be matching 1440 MWh of electricity usage with Renewable Energy Certificates. The RECs are supplied by Constellation Energy and they are Green-e Energy Certified and sourced from wind energy facilities located throughout the United States. Throughout the term of the contract, 60% of the electricity Giovanni Foods uses at their manufacturing facility will be matched with RECs. Each REC represents the positive environmental attributes of 1 megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity generated by a renewable power plant, and is retired on behalf of customers wishing to promote their environmental commitment. Through the purchase of RECs, Giovanni Foods and Constellation Energy are supporting the operation and development of facilities that generate clean, renewable energy.

"We are proud to take this next step towards helping the environment and believe this will be a key selling point for our newest offering, Greenview Kitchen," said Louis DeMent, CEO of Giovanni Food Company. "We take pride in doing what we can to help reduce pollution and have an overall positive impact on the environment. This is a core value of our company and a more sustainable future is what drove us to take on this initiative. Our hope is that this product will appeal to those who share this vision with us."

About Green-e Marketplace and Center for Resource Solutions

Green-e Marketplace (www.green-e.org) provides forward-thinking organizations with a simple, nationally recognized logo they can use to communicate their commitment to renewable energy to their customers and shareholders. The Green-e logo is the nation's leading symbol of renewable energy excellence and distinguishes Green-e Marketplace participants as environmental leaders. Green-e is a program of Center for Resource Solutions, a nonprofit that creates policy and market solutions to advance sustainable energy.

About Giovanni Food Company, Inc.

The Giovanni Food Company (www.giovannifoods.com) has been in business for over 70 years and with increasing sales, further growth is in their future. They have developed several products from traditional to gourmet, and even organic. Customers can find Giovanni products in grocery and specialty stores across the United States. Giovanni Food Company has become recognized as a leading private label manufacturer of tomato based products and they are also the largest manufacturer of spaghetti sauce for the USDA Food For Kids Program and the Needy Families Program.

SOURCE Giovanni Food Company, Inc.

Whataburger Debuts Chicken Fajita Taco

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:10:00 +0000

So much good stuff, the tortilla can barely contain it.

SAN ANTONIO, TX, February 06, 2012 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Today, Whataburger is pushing the limits of what a single tortilla can hold with the launch of the Chicken Fajita Taco, the newest permanent addition to the Texas burger icon's menu.

This isn't your average taco. It's a chicken fajita done the Whataburger way - with a whole sliced grilled chicken breast, layered with roasted poblano and red bell peppers, and finished off with grilled onions. It's light, but loaded at the same time.

"The new Chicken Fajita Taco uses fresh ingredients and has a distinct flavor profile complementary of the fire-roasted pepper blend," said Whataburger Group Director of Marketing Rich Scheffler. "And at just 420 calories, the Chicken Fajita Taco offers customers a lower-calorie option - perfect for keeping those New Year's resolutions - but in a size that still satisfies."

With new burger options popping up across the U.S., Whataburger is known among its quick-service competitors for offering more choices and distinctive flavor combinations, and the Chicken Fajita Taco is no exception. Available a la carte or as part of a meal, the taco can be ordered with Whataburger's apple slices instead of fries for additional calorie savings.

A full menu of lower-calorie meals can be found at Whataburger.com.

ABOUT WHATABURGER: Visit www.whataburger.com for more information on the company. Become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/whataburger and follow the brand on Twitter @Whataburger.

MEDIA CONTACTS:

Suzanne Miller or Tracy Aiello

SPM Communications

817-329-3257

spm@spmcommunications.com

tracy@spmcommunications.com

Meredith Hargrove

Corporate Communications

Whataburger Restaurants, LP

210-476-6403

mhargrove@wbhq.com

---

Press release service and press release distribution provided by http://www.24-7pressrelease.com

Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon Man and The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt Spokesman, to Run Marathon at Tradeshow

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:44:57 +0000

Dean Karnazes, Ultramarathon Man and The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt Spokesman, to Run Marathon at Tradeshow

Ultramarathon Man Dean Karnazes will showcase The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt wellness benefits at Natural Products Expo West by doing what he does best

PR Newswire

MELVILLE, N.Y., Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- At the upcoming Natural Products Expo West, held from March 9th to 11th at the Anaheim Convention Center in California, The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt spokesman, Ultramarathon Man Dean Karnazes, will be showcasing the brand's wellness benefits as a nutritious meal in a unique manner—Karnazes will run a marathon on a treadmill in the booth.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120206/NY48033-a )

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120206/NY48033LOGO-b )

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050324/NYTH131 )

While running on the treadmill, Dean will be available for media interviews and questions. A long time consumer, The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt is part of his pre-race meal of choice. "The Greek Gods plain, Greek-Style yogurt is my personal favorite because it is natural yogurt made with whole milk. I find that the low-fat and fat-free yogurts don't satiate me and sustain my energy levels the way yogurt made with whole milk does," said Dean Karnazes.

The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt is a brand of The Hain Celestial Group, Inc., (NASDAQ: HAIN), a leading natural and organic products company in North America and Europe providing consumers with A Healthy Way of Life™.

The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt

The Greek Gods® authentic natural Greek-style yogurt, is gluten-free and contains live and active cultures. Plus, The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt is made with milk from cows that are not treated with growth hormones. Experience the Myth® with The Greek Gods® Greek-Style Yogurt full-flavored products available in 6-ounce individual packages and 24-ounce family packs including Plain and Non-Fat Plain, Fig, Honey, Pomegranate, Honey Vanilla, Honey Blueberry, Honey Strawberry and Reduced Fat Vanilla, Cinnamon and Orange. For more information, visit www.greekgodsyogurt.com.

The Hain Celestial Group

The Hain Celestial Group (NASDAQ: HAIN), headquartered in Melville, NY, is a leading natural and organic products company in North America and Europe. Hain Celestial participates in many natural categories with well-known brands that include Celestial Seasonings®, Earth's Best®, Terra®, Garden of Eatin'®, Sensible Portions®, Health Valley®, Arrowhead Mills®, MaraNatha®, SunSpire®, DeBoles®, Gluten Free Cafe™, Hain Pure Foods®, Hollywood®, Spectrum Naturals®, Spectrum Essentials®, Walnut Acres Organic®, Imagine®, Almond Dream®, Rice Dream®, Soy Dream®, WestSoy®, The Greek Gods®, Ethnic Gourmet®, Yves Veggie Cuisine®, Europe's Best®, New Covent Garden Soup Co.®, Johnson's Juice Co.®, Farmhouse Fare®, Linda McCartney®, Daily Bread™, Lima®, Danival®, GG UniqueFiber®, Grains Noirs®, Natumi®, JASON®, Zia® Natural Skincare, Avalon Organics®, Alba Botanica®, Queen Helene®, Earth's Best TenderCare® and Martha Stewart Clean™. Hain Celestial has been providing "A Healthy Way of Life™" since 1993. For more information, visit www.hain-celestial.com.

SOURCE The Hain Celestial Group

Scholar in Residence Fred Kirschenmann Speaks at Green Mountain College

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:22:05 +0000

Scholar in Residence Fred Kirschenmann Speaks at Green Mountain College

PR Newswire

POULTNEY, Vt., Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- At heart, Fred Kirschenmann is a farmer—he still runs a 2600-acre family farm in North Dakota. Ever since the 1970s, when he converted the farm to a certified organic operation, he began thinking deeply about sustainability of agriculture as it is practiced today.

His inquiry led to several decades of research, study and experimentation, and today Kirschenmann is an internationally-known advocate for land ethics and sustainable agriculture. He is the first scholar in residence for Green Mountain College's new Master's of Sustainable Food Systems program and will speak at the Gorge (Withey Hall) at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 13. The title of his talk is "Two Food Stories: Which Path Will We Take?" The event is free and open to the public. Vermont Secretary of Agriculture Chuck Ross will be present to welcome Dr. Kirschenmann and the new students in the MSFS program.

"We now have essentially two proposals in our culture," Kirschenmann says. "The first is the 'industrial story,' which suggests what we need to do to meet the challenges ahead is to further intensify the path we have taken for the past half-century—essentially 'greening up' the green revolution."

The other story, according to Kirschenmann, is that the industrial farm model is now bankrupt, and we need to fundamentally redesign our food systems using ecological principles.

Kirschenmann points out that much of what made modern agriculture possible is based on mild, stable climate conditions and cheap oil. "Neither of these prerequisites now exist," he says. Most energy economists expect that oil prices will continue to rise dramatically in future decades. Meanwhile, freshwater resources are declining—Kirschenmann says much of the food grown worldwide is dependent on irrigation instead of direct rainfall.

"Eighty percent of China's grain is dependent on irrigation. The Chinese are drawing down their groundwater resources at a rate of about 10 feet per year," he said.

Ultimately, Kirschenmann's message is a hopeful one. Renewable energy technologies and thoughtful water management policies can lead to a new age of mid-to large-scale farming that can provide a healthy and sustainable food systems.

Kirschenmann is a Distinguished Fellow in philosophy and religious studies in the Leopold Center at Iowa State University department of religion and philosophy. He was a member of the National Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production operated by the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health and funded by Pew Charitable Trusts. Kirschenmann was one of the first ten recipients of the James F. Beard Foundation Leadership awards in 2011. He earned degrees from Yankton College in South Dakota, Hartford Theological Seminary in Connecticut, and a Ph.D. degree from the University of Chicago, where he earned numerous awards including a Rockefeller Fellowship.

Green Mountain College's new master's degree in sustainable food systems prepares future leaders in the burgeoning food movement with a graduate level interdisciplinary understanding of sustainable agricultural production and a deep knowledge of the economic, ecological, and social forces driving food systems. The degree program is accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges and is designed to provide students with the skills to conduct in-depth interdisciplinary investigations into the complex arena of their own bioregional food systems. The first cohort meets for a five-day residency this month. The second cohort for the MSFS program will commence in September 2012.

SOURCE Green Mountain College

Food Security Is Top Reason for New Gardeners to Grow Food, Survey Shows

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 13:25:00 +0000

Food Security Is Top Reason for New Gardeners to Grow Food, Survey Shows

New Video Course Shows How to Be Self-Sufficient and Grow Healthy Food

PR Newswire

AUSTIN, Texas, Feb. 6, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- What is behind the huge trend of vegetable gardens and backyard chickens?

Surprisingly, it is not the higher costs of groceries. A recent survey showed the biggest motivation for 1,598 new gardeners to start growing their own food is food security, says Marjory Wildcraft, creator of the acclaimed tutorial titled "Grow Your Own Groceries," which contains 2 DVDs and a CD mini-library.

The second biggest motivator was concerns with toxicities in groceries, says Wildcraft. Food costs placed a distant fourth.

"People are concerned about disruptions of the food supply due to economic collapse, pandemics, terror events, or natural disasters," says Wildcraft. The "Grow Your Own Groceries" video training course is rapidly becoming the standard video training tool and reference source for people who want to learn how to grow food and take control of their food supply.

"Backyard food production makes so much sense and "Grow Your Own Groceries" will pay for itself many times over starting with your first garden or livestock project," says Wildcraft, who has been featured as a guest on over 150 radio, podcast, print, and television shows. "We found that people learn better by watching videos rather than reading. That's what makes our course so unique and so helpful."

The USDA says the average family of four spends nearly $15,208 per year on groceries. Wildcraft says people can grow their own groceries for much less, and get much higher quality food.

"Grow Your Own Groceries" is endorsed by The Permaculture Activist, NaturalNews.com, World Hunger Relief Missionaries, The Organic Consumers Association, Alex Jones' Infowars, and The Weston-Price Nutrition Foundation.

The principles in the DVD training course are universal and are applicable to everyone living everywhere, regardless of climate. People who live in apartments can also grow their own food.

Backyard gardeners can get a series of impactful videos delivered to their inbox every day for free when they subscribe to Wildcraft's "Getting Started Kit" at http://www.GrowYourOwnGroceries.com.

"I came from a business background and could not keep one house plant alive. But now I grow more than half of what I eat. I've learned what works and what doesn't," she says.

"Grow Your Own Groceries" answers such questions as:

How to grow vegetables?
What to plant?
How to grow more?
How to plant a garden?
What to grow?
What is food security?
What is food safety?
The secrets to a green thumb
The most critical factors for success in growing food
All about small livestock
How to do home butchering
What are the fastest and easiest gardening methods?
Is there free wild food around me I don't know about?
How much land do I need to be completely food self-reliant?

"This DVD set will literally save you years in getting your own food production going at home. It is an amazing video, well-paced, captivating, packed full with everything you really need to know. It is astonishing how well thought out this set is," says Jack Spirko, host of "The Survival Podcast."

Creating the videos is part of a mission for Wildcraft, who is passionate about sustainable living and self-reliance.

"I've been dedicated to finding the easiest methods for growing food on a family scale," says Wildcraft, who teaches people with no gardening or agriculture experience how to successfully grow healthy, vibrant, nutritious food.

"I wanted to do something about the chemicals in my food, GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) corn, depleted soils, and the horror of commercial meat production. I felt vulnerable when I realized how dependent I was on huge, corporate agri-business for my food supply. The sense of security is priceless knowing that come what may, I am able to feed my family," she says.

Many people agreed and bought copies of "Grow Your Own Groceries." It's been sold in over 30 countries. Even people who don't have green thumbs have told Wildcraft that watching her videos gave them the knowledge and confidence to be successful.

"I put everything I know into the videos, including my failures. I've gotten thousands of emails with people telling me how much they appreciated how I show the techniques that didn't work," she says.

"Grow Your Own Groceries" contains two DVDs and a bonus CD with a 60-document mini-library. As a bonus, customers receive the book "How To Grow More Vegetables," which is the bible of sustainable growing.

The package can be purchased for only two payments of $47 at http://www.GrowYourOwnGroceries.com.

The product carries a risk-free, 60-day money-back guarantee.

For information, go to http://www.GrowYourOwnGroceries.com

SOURCE Marjory Wildcraft

Nest Collective Voluntarily Recalls Select Revolution Foods Jammy Sammy - Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter Snack Size Sandwich Bars Due to a Labeling Error (Undeclared Peanut on Inner Wrapper)

Sat, 04 Feb 2012 01:46:54 +0000

Nest Collective Voluntarily Recalls Select Revolution Foods Jammy Sammy - Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter Snack Size Sandwich Bars Due to a Labeling Error (Undeclared Peanut on Inner Wrapper)

PR Newswire

EMERYVILLE, Calif., Feb. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Nest Collective™ announced today that it is voluntarily recalling 815 cases of its Jammy Sammy™ - Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter Flavor Snack Size Sandwich Bars due to a mislabeled inner wrapper. The cartons contain the best by date June 28, 2012 and are marked with the following universal product code (UPC) #89676600116 6 located on the bottom of the package. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts (or peanut butter) run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these individual bars.

These cartons are sold online and at retail stores nationwide.

No illnesses have been reported in connection with this product and no other Revolution Foods products are affected.

The recall was undertaken because, while the cartons of this lot of product are correctly labeled, some of the individual bars are incorrectly labeled as Grammy Sammy - Honey Graham and Strawberry Yogurt™, and show the ingredient statement of that product. Both the selling unit and individually wrapped bars include information that the product was produced in a facility that processes peanuts as well as other allergens. The Jammy Sammy™ product contains organic peanut flour and organic peanut extract, but the inner wrappers are mislabeled with the Grammy Sammy information. Consumers who are allergic to peanut products should not use these products. People experiencing any health issue should seek immediate medical attention.

Specific UPC codes for these products are below:

Brand

Product

Flavor

Package

Best By

UPC

Revolution Foods

Jammy Sammy

Strawberry Jam & Peanut Butter

5 count carton

06/28/12

8 96766 00116 6

Images of the 5 count carton can be found at http://products.revfoods.com/products/jammy-sammy.

Consumers who purchased this product should return it to the store where it was purchased for a full refund or contact Nest Collective at info@nest-collective.com.

The recall is being undertaken with the knowledge of the U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Consumers with any questions are asked to call 1-866-362-1562 between the hours of 8am - 8pm EST Monday - Friday and 8am - 5pm EST Saturday & Sunday, or email: info@nest-collective.com.

"The Jammy Sammy™ product meets Nest Collective's high standard for quality, however due to a labeling error during production, we are proactively removing this product from the market," said Neil Grimmer, Founder & CEO of Nest Collective.

"As a father, the safety and satisfaction of our consumers and their children is my highest concern," said Neil Grimmer. "Nest Collective was founded on the vision of superior quality and nutritious food; we are committed to these values and our consumers."

SOURCE Nest Collective

Mojo Organics, Inc. Appoints J.R. LeShufy to the Company's Board of Directors

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 15:02:44 +0000

Mojo Organics, Inc. Appoints J.R. LeShufy to the Company's Board of Directors

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, Feb. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Mojo Organics, Inc. (OTCBB: MOJO) ("Mojo" or the "Company") today announced the appointment of J. Robert ("J.R.") LeShufy to the company's Board of Directors. LeShufy is a founding investor in Mojo and brings a diverse business background to the Company. He has been an entrepreneur in a wide range of ventures from the oil industry, construction, and dredging. He is currently a senior advisor to The Broadsmoore Group, a privately held investment advisory and merchant banking firm.

"We are pleased to welcome J.R. to Mojo's board. His significant experience in launching companies both here and abroad will be instrumental in guiding the company's growth," said Glenn Simpson, CEO of Mojo. "We look forward to J.R.'s leadership as we continue developing consumer products."

In the 1990's, LeShufy formed the second approved joint venture in the former Soviet Union in the Siberian oil fields of the Komi Region with his partner Samson Drilling of Oklahoma. He also worked with Brown and Root, a division of Halliburton, to help the company access the oil fields in Kazakhstan.

After a meeting with the Komarov Institute in St. Petersburg, the world's oldest botanical gardens started by Peter the Great, LeShufy formed a joint venture known as Panax Pharmaceuticals. During that time, he worked with the Institute of Traditional Medicine in Guang-Xi, China, to incorporate Chinese botanical products for Western medicine. Back in the U.S., he took Panax public. The company subsequently changed its name to Inkine Pharmaceutical and was sold to Salix Pharmaceutical for $200 million.

In 2004, LeShufy was a founder of Glyconix Corp., a company specializing in sugar chemistry to improve the efficacy of small molecule drugs. Prior to that, he was on the board of IMT Inc., a company whose mission was to evaluate covert Navy projects. LeShufy was granted top level security in this capacity. He volunteered and served in the U.S. Army Air Corps.

About Mojo Organics, Inc.
Based in New York, Mojo Organics, Inc. engages in the production, distribution, and marketing of natural and organic beverages. The company's core objective is to promote a healthy and affordable lifestyle for children and adults alike.

SOURCE Mojo Organics, Inc.

Blue Pacific Flavors Announces Strategic Investment by Wilmar International Limited

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 13:00:00 +0000

Blue Pacific Flavors Announces Strategic Investment by Wilmar International Limited

Deal enables expansion of the company's global flavor ingredient platform and raw materials supply chain

PR Newswire

CITY OF INDUSTRY, Calif., Feb. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Blue Pacific Flavors, a leading developer and manufacturer of natural and organic-compliant fruit flavors, announces a strategic capital investment by Asia's leading agribusiness group, Wilmar International Limited. Blue Pacific Flavors joins Wilmar International Limited's group of associated companies.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120202/LA46511LOGO)

Blue Pacific Flavors will maintain all domestic production of flavors and ingredients for its U.S. clientele from its headquarters manufacturing facility and R&D center in City of Industry, Calif. The company will continue all global operations including its facilities in China, offices in Malaysia, South Korea and the Philippines. Donald Wilkes remains unchanged in his role as CEO and Chairman of Blue Pacific Flavors' Board of Directors.

Headquartered in Singapore, Wilmar's business activities include oil palm cultivation, oilseeds crushing, edible oils refining, sugar milling and refining, specialty fats, oleochemicals, biodiesel and fertilizers manufacturing and grains processing. The company has more than 300 manufacturing plants and a distribution network throughout China, India, Indonesia and some 50 other countries.

Wilmar's Chairman and CEO Kuok Khoon Hong and Chief Scientific Advisor Professor Chua Nam-Hai join the Blue Pacific Flavors' Board of Directors.

"Wilmar's supply chain enables us to expand our capabilities and distribution in whole fruit and grain based food flavoring and natural food ingredients," said Blue Pacific Flavors CEO Donald F. Wilkes. "The dynamics of this partnership will exponentially grow our Chinese and Southeast Asian manufacturing footprint and distribution to a wide range of new customers, while also supporting our North America business and core customer base."

The investment allows Blue Pacific Flavors to focus on continuing its leadership in true-fruit and whole food flavor creation while strengthening capabilities in natural flavors and extracts. In addition, the investment will provide significant capital resources and the potential to expand basic flavor research platforms as well as an existing licensing partnership with The New Zealand Institute of Plant and Food Research Ltd.

"Our shared values and passion for innovative, high quality whole food ingredients and natural products will provide many new and exciting growth opportunities as we meet the needs of the evolving, health conscious consumers," added Wilkes.

About Blue Pacific Flavors, Inc.

Since 1993, Blue Pacific Flavors has been a leader in technology driven flavor creation combined with food and beverage application intellectual property solutions. The company's flavor capabilities range from creative development to new product development and duplication. Blue Pacific provides its customers an international spectrum of innovation, expertise and tradition for quality, service and value. Industries served include the food, beverage, dairy, bakery, confectionery, prepared food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and chemical specialties sectors. The company uses only the finest natural and synthetic raw materials available and manufactures all products under Kosher and Halal supervision, as well as GRAS and FEMA guidelines. Blue Pacific Flavors follows GMP and AIB guidelines and certification. For more information, visit www.bluepacificflavors.com.

About Wilmar

Wilmar International Limited, founded in 1991 and headquartered in Singapore, is today Asia's leading agribusiness group. Wilmar is ranked amongst the largest listed companies by market capitalisation on the Singapore Exchange.

Wilmar's business activities include oil palm cultivation, oilseeds crushing, edible oils refining, sugar milling and refining, specialty fats, oleochemicals, biodiesel and fertilisers manufacturing and grains processing. At the core of Wilmar's strategy is a resilient integrated agribusiness model that encompasses the entire value chain of the agricultural commodity processing business, from origination and processing to branding, merchandising and distribution of a wide range of agricultural products. It has over 300 manufacturing plants that are supported by its own fleet of vessels serving an extensive distribution network covering China, India, Indonesia and some 50 other countries. The Group is backed by a multinational workforce of more than 88,000 people.

Wilmar's portfolio of high quality processed agricultural products is the preferred choice of the food manufacturing industry, as well as the industrial and consumer food catering businesses. Its consumer-packed products occupy a leading share in its targeted markets. Through scale, integration and the logistical advantages of its business model, Wilmar is able to extract margins at every step of the value chain, thereby reaping operational synergies and cost efficiencies. Wilmar remains a firm advocate of sustainable growth and is committed to its role as a responsible corporate citizen.

SOURCE Blue Pacific Flavors

99 Cents Only Stores® Invites First Lady to San Diego Store Grand Opening to Help Spread Her Healthy Eating Message

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:21:31 +0000

99 Cents Only Stores® Invites First Lady to San Diego Store Grand Opening to Help Spread Her Healthy Eating Message

PR Newswire

CITY OF COMMERCE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- 99 Cents Only Stores®has formally invited First Lady, Michelle Obama, to attend the Grand Opening of its new store in San Diego, California to help her spread her healthy eating message. The event will take place tomorrow, Thursday, February 2, 2012 at the new store's location 2611 Market St.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110214/LA47195LOGO-a)

First Lady, Michelle Obama, has been very involved in helping underserved communities throughout the nation and her efforts to help lower income areas go hand in hand with 99 Cents Only Stores' philosophy that you don't have to be wealthy to eat healthy! For nearly thirty years, the retail Company has helped thousands of people in California, Nevada, Arizona and Texas "stretch" their dollars by offering healthy products at affordable prices, including produce and organic foods.

99 Cents Only Stores will celebrate the grand opening of its new store in San Diego by selling a Philips® 22" Flat Screen LCD TV – a $230 value – for only 99 cents to the first nine customers in line and scooters to the next 99!

About 99 Cents Only Stores®

Founded in 1982, 99 Cents Only Stores® currently operates 293 extreme value retail stores consisting of 215 stores in California, 36 in Texas, 29 in Arizona, and 13 in Nevada. 99 Cents Only Stores® emphasizes quality name-brand consumables, priced at an excellent value, in convenient, attractively merchandised stores. Over half of the Company's sales come from food and beverages, including produce, dairy, deli and frozen foods, along with organic and gourmet foods.

Media Contact: Ana Gamez at 323-881-1247 or anag@99only.com.

SOURCE 99-Cent Only Stores

Wente Family Estates Named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Wente Family Estates Named American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast

PR Newswire

LIVERMORE, Calif., Feb. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Carolyn Wente, CEO and Fourth Generation Winegrower of America's oldest continuously owned and operated winery, is pleased to announce that her family business received the 2011 American Winery of the Year award from Wine Enthusiast yesterday evening. Wente Family Estates' portfolio of wines is comprised of Wente Vineyards, Murrieta's Well, TAMAS Estates, Hayes Ranch and entwine wines, a new line crafted in partnership by Food Network and Wente Vineyards. Known as the Wine Star Awards for the last 11 years, the magazine honors international wine personalities who have had great influence on the world of wine.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120201/SF45189)

Wente Family Estates joins an esteemed group of winners this year including Restaurateur of the Year Michael Mina, Winemaker of the Year Bob Cabral of Williams Selyem, and Generations of Innovation awardees Georg and Maximillian Riedel. Upon learning of the news, Fourth Generation Winegrower and CEO Carolyn Wente stated:

"This really is such a wonderful acknowledgement and recognition for the five generations of my family who have remained committed to the wine business. We all love what we do- my two brothers, Eric and Phil, and my niece and nephew, Christine and Karl, are individually helping to build our company into a strong, relevant and quality-driven winery in the 21st century. We have built on the foundation laid by my great grandfather, Carl Wente, who came to this country as an immigrant in the late 19th century, to the Livermore Valley in 1883."

This award comes at an auspicious time for the winery as 2012 marks the 100th anniversary of the Wente clone of Chardonnay coming to California. Wente Vineyards' plantings and experimentation with the Chardonnay clone began a chapter in California wine history that continues today. Post Prohibition, Chardonnay plantings encompassed roughly 100 acres in California. In the last year, nearly 100,000 acres were planted to Chardonnay; it is also the top selling varietal in the country. Today, a large majority of Chardonnay planted in California is derived from the Wente clone, making the Wente family integral in the development of wine culture for Americans.

As one of the top 30 wine companies in America for several years running, Wente Family Estates has established itself as a unique company given its five generation heritage as a family-owned business. Due to Carolyn Wente's vision, the winery was also among the first to develop a full wine country destination, when it launched an onsite fine dining restaurant, The Restaurant at Wente Vineyards, as well as the renowned Concerts at Wente Vineyards in 1986. In 1998, the winery added to its offerings when they opened the Course at Wente Vineyards on property, an 18-hole championship course designed by Greg Norman, and a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary. Blazing a trail that many would follow, Wente Family Estates made wine country more than just a casual stop by a tasting room to an entire experience.

The award follows a host of acknowledgements that the family has received in the past couple of years. In 2008, on the occasion of their 125th anniversary, the Culinary Institute of America inducted founder Carl Heinrich Wente into the "Vintners Hall of Fame" as a "Pioneer." In 2010, the winery was named Winery of the Year by the California Travel Industry Association and received the Lifetime Achievement award at the California State Fair. Several generations of sustainability efforts were also recognized in 2010 when Wente Family Estates became one of the first wineries to attain Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing status, as well as one of only a few wineries to certify every aspect of their business.

With the American Winery of the Year Award, Wente Family Estates is recognized in good company with previous recipients J. Lohr Vineyard and Wines, Trinchero Family Estates and Concannon Vineyard.

About Wente Family Estates
Wente Family Estates, comprised of Wente Vineyards, Tamas Estates, Murrieta's Well, Hayes Ranch and entwine wines, is owned and operated by the fourth and fifth generations of the Wente family. Wente Family Estates' wines are sold in all 50 states and in over 70 countries worldwide. In 2010, the company received certification for its sustainability efforts with the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing designation. In 2011, Wente Family Estates was awarded American Winery of the Year by Wine Enthusiast. All of the wines within the Wente Family Estates portfolio are handcrafted by Fifth Generation Winemaker Karl D. Wente.

Located just east of San Francisco in the historic Livermore Valley, Wente Family Estates is home to one of California's premier wine country destinations, featuring wine tasting, world class concerts, award-winning fine dining and championship golf. For more information, visit www.wentefamilyestates.com.

Contact: Kimberly Charles
415-701-9463
press@charlescomm.com

SOURCE Wente Family Estates

Centerplate Teams with Farm Aid, John Mellencamp to Showcase Family Farmers at The Super Bowl

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 12:30:00 +0000

Centerplate Teams with Farm Aid, John Mellencamp to Showcase Family Farmers at The Super Bowl

Will Serve Food from Indiana Family Farmers, Super Bowl's First Ever Organic Concession Dish

PR Newswire

INDIANAPOLIS, Feb. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Centerplate, the largest hospitality partner to North America's premier sports stadiums, convention centers, and entertainment venues, is proud to announce a ground breaking partnership with Farm Aid, and one of its founders, Indiana legend John Mellencamp, that will make Indianapolis' Super Bowl XLVI the first ever to offer HOMEGROWN chili, sourced from sustainable family farms. To make Super Bowl XLVI a true Heartland experience, three separate dishes will feature ingredients from local Indiana farmers. The HOMEGROWN menu will also include a vegetarian chili that will be the first organic concession dish ever served at the Super Bowl.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120201/CL45414)

Inside Lucas Oil Stadium, HOMEGROWN signage will proudly recognize individual Indiana farmers by name on Super Bowl Sunday, putting the farmers, and their products, squarely on sports' biggest stage. For every bowl of HOMEGROWN chili sold, Centerplate will also make a $2 donation to Farm Aid. And to raise awareness for this initiative, Farm Aid Board Member and founder John Mellencamp has signed on to help promote the HOMEGROWN Super Bowl initiative.

"Farm Aid knows family farmers. Our mission is to make sure you do, too," said Farm Aid co-founder John Mellencamp. "Farm Aid is introducing football fans to family farmers by serving HOMEGROWN Chili at the Super Bowl. It's good food from family farms, including some from right here in Indiana."

Centerplate will proudly serve the HOMEGROWN menu in both the general concessions areas and suites at Lucas Oil Stadium. The menu includes:

Red Beef Chili – featuring hormone and antibiotic free beef from regional organic beef producers and Patty Reding of Langeland Farms, Greensburg, Indiana.
Green Pork Chili – featuring hormone and antibiotic free pork from Stanley and Evan Hall of Hall Farms, Paoli, Indiana.
Organic Vegetarian White Chili – featuring organic beans from the Fields of Agape Cooperative, Carthage, Indiana. The onions, celery, garlic, carrots, peppers and oil are also all organic. The vegetarian chili will be the first organic concession dish ever served at the Super Bowl, made from ingredients that are certified USDA organic.

The HOMEGROWN menu for Super Bowl XLVI comes as part of Centerplate's continuing commitment to buying local products in all of its 250 venues nation-wide. Centerplate and Farm Aid will continue to explore offering HOMEGROWN menu items in other stadiums.

"We're proud to stand side by side with Farm Aid, local family farmers and Indiana icon John Mellencamp, in their mission to create thriving family farms. And we're thrilled they're working with us to create a true Heartland Experience for fans," says Centerplate's CMO, Bob Pascal. "With this HOMEGROWN program, Centerplate is raising the bar for local partnership and, with the first ever organic dish at the Super Bowl, we're setting a new standard for healthy and organic hospitality."

About Centerplate
Centerplate crafts and delivers "Craveable Experiences. Raveable Results." in over 250 prominent entertainment, sports and convention venues across North America – annually serving over 100 million guests. Centerplate has provided event hospitality services to 15 official U.S. Presidential Inaugural Balls, 12 Super Bowls, 20 World Series, the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, and the largest plated dinner in history at the Alpha Kappa Alpha Centennial Celebration. The company was recently named the fastest growing hospitality group in the country by Nation's Restaurant News. Visit the company online at www.centerplate.com.

About Farm Aid
Farm Aid's mission is to build a vibrant, family farm-centered system of agriculture in America that ensures farmers a fair living, strengthens our communities, protects our natural resources and delivers good food for all. Farm Aid artists and board members Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, Neil Young and Dave Matthews host an annual concert to raise funds to help farmers thrive and to promote good food from family farms. HOMEGROWN Concessions®brings the experience of tasting good food from family farms into events and venues. Learn more at www.farmaid.org/homegrownchili.

SOURCE Centerplate

Apple Rush Co., Inc. Announces Implementation of $2.5 mm Credit Facility

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 02:11:06 +0000

Apple Rush Co., Inc. Announces Implementation of $2.5 mm Credit Facility

PR Newswire

GLENVIEW, Ill., Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Apple Rush Co., Inc. (Pinksheets: APRU) is pleased to announce the implementation of a credit facility for the aggregate amount of $2.5 million issued by First Fidelity, USA of Las Vegas, NV. The credit facility is secured by the common stock of the company and will allow for the immediate manufacturing of their products.

In conjunction with the draw down of the credit facility, Apple Rush has initiated its first order with its packager, F. X. Matt Brewing Company, a 100 year old company in upstate New York. The order is for 10,400 cases of mixed Apple Rush products; Apple, Blueberry, Pomegranate, and Black Cherry. All of the products are manufactured to the specifications of protected and proprietary standards of Apple Rush Company. All the products are completely organic, 100% juice, and contain no preservatives or added sugars.

Robert Corr, President of Apple Rush Co., Inc states, "The present market is growing rapidly in organic and natural beverages. Especially for beverages that taste great and, importantly, are manufactured in accordance with organic and ethical standards that are verified on the product label. Apple Rush Co. has been an industry leader in the formulation of such natural and organic beverage products. The current promotion in the Chicagoland area, to be followed in other markets this Spring, coincides with the 40th year anniversary of the Apple Rush Co. and its unique line of organic beverages which originated in California."

SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT:

Statements about the Company's future expectations and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts, are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company intends that such forward-looking statements be subject to the safe harbors created thereby.

The above information contains information relating to the Company that is based on the beliefs of the Company and/or its management, as well as assumptions made by any information currently available to the Company or its management. When used in this document, the words "anticipate," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "plans," "projects," and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current view of the Company regarding future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties noted. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove to be incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, estimated, expected, intended or projected. In each instance, forward-looking information should be considered in light of the accompanying meaningful cautionary statements herein. Factors that could cause results to differ include, but are not limited to, successful performance of internal plans, the impact of competitive services and pricing and general economic risks and uncertainties.

Contact:
Apple Rush Co., Inc
www.applerush.com
708-841-7960

SOURCE Apple Rush Co., Inc

ARCO Design/Build, Inc. Project Earns LEED® Gold Certification

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 19:09:10 +0000

ARCO Design/Build, Inc. Project Earns LEED® Gold Certification

PR Newswire

ATLANTA, Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- United Natural Foods was recently awarded LEED® Gold Certification for their newest distribution center in Lancaster, Texas. The distribution center was designed and constructed by Atlanta based ARCO Design/Build, Inc.

This Lancaster facility marks the 18th project ARCO Design/Build, Inc. has completed for UNFI, and the third LEED® Gold certified project. UNFI and ARCO Design/Build, Inc. have previously partnered to design and build distribution centers in York, PA (2008) and Ridgefield, WA (2007), which also received LEED® Gold Certification. UNFI is a company dedicated to sustainability and the environment; this is the company's fourth LEED® certified building.

"The Lancaster facility is another demonstration of UNFI's dedication to excellence and environmentally sustainable initiatives," said Mark Mummert, President of ARCO Design/Build. "Working with the detail oriented and highly skilled UNFI 'Green Team' is always enjoyable and this project was no exception."

Construction on this distribution center commenced in 2010 and was built with a focus on sustainability and energy conservation. ARCO Design/Build's scope of work included retrofitting the existing building to include 89,000 square feet of ammonia refrigerated space, ESFR fire protection for dry storage, double interlock preaction fire protection for cold storage, and 21,338 square feet of 2-story office space. Since completion of this project, ARCO Design/Build designed and constructed an additional 27,000 square feet of cooler/freezer space. Some key sustainability achievements for the first phase include:

Over 97% of all office equipment and appliances in building are Energy Star rated
20% of all building materials made with recycled content
75% of all construction waste materials were properly recycled and/or reused
Energy reduction and lighting power reduction of 30% and 18%, respectively
Use of solar panels for two dock levelers
Ammonia-based refrigeration system, more environmentally-friendly and energy-efficient than other refrigerants
Water use reduction of over 35% using motion-activated sensors, flow controls and rainwater recovery cistern

LEED® (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) is an internationally-recognized green building certification system. LEED® promotes sustainable building and development practices through a suite of rating systems that recognize projects that implement strategies for better environmental and health performance based on a rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). LEED® provides building owners and operators with a framework for identifying and implementing practical and measurable green building design, construction, operations and maintenance solutions.

About ARCO Design/Build, Inc.

ARCO Design/Build, Inc. is a turn-key design/build firm widely recognized as an industry leader for various industrial project types, including but not limited to cold storage/food distribution and light industrial/warehouse/distribution. Turn-key service capabilities include project feasibility studies, site selection, complete design, logistical design, budgeting, up-front competitive lump sum pricing, value engineering, code consulting and full general contracting.

SOURCE ARCO Design/Build, Inc.

Record Number of New Brands to Launch at Natural Products Expo West

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:57:30 +0000

Record Number of New Brands to Launch at Natural Products Expo West

Natural, Organic and Healthy living industry indicates strengthening economy

PR Newswire

BOULDER, Colo., Jan. 31, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Products Expo West, produced by New Hope Natural Media, remains the premiere natural, organic and healthy living tradeshow in the world since its inception over 30 years ago. The trade only event will be held March 8 - 11, 2012 at the Anaheim Convention Center and will play host to over 3,000 exhibits showcasing new products.

"With over 400 first time exhibitors, the innovation and entrepreneurship shown at Natural Products Expo West pushes the natural, organic and healthy living market to the forefront of micro and macro economic growth," said Adam Andersen, show director.

Paralleling booming industry growth, this year will feature newly introduced business opportunities, education and events.

The Beer, Wine and Spirits Marketplace will connect retail buyers with wine, spirits and beer importers, distributors and producers.
International Buyers Program, through a program of the U.S. Department of Commerce, focuses on teaching brands how to create, optimize and find export opportunities into Canada, the E.U. and China to grow their business. Buyers from over 99 countries will be in attendance.
The Bloggerati Forum offers the latest opportunity for exhibitors to connect and create a personal connection with some of the most influential bloggers at Expo West.

Natural Products Expo West brings together the latest and fastest growing trends, unveiling of product launches and the thought and entrepreneurial leaders across the categories of natural and specialty foods and beverages, organic, supplements, health and beauty, natural living and pet products. "Natural Products Expo West is THE tradeshow for the Natural Products industry. Not only is it an amazing place to meet buyers, but the relationships you establish with other companies, with the New Hope staff and with industry veterans are invaluable. It's a place to learn, grow, network, sell and have fun," said Lauren Lortie, Director of Marketing for Justin's.

The year's keynote is Paul Greenberg is the author of the New York Times bestseller Four Fish: The Future of the Last Wild Food and a regular contributor to The New York Times Magazine. Ziggy Marley will be the entertainment at the show's live music party; he is also launching his own natural brands at the show, Coco'Mon and Hemp Rules.

Co-located with Natural Products Expo West:

Engredea and Nutracon, the ingredient and supply chains' most comprehensive trade show and conference platforms focusing on innovation.
The Fresh Ideas Organic Marketplace, an innovative outdoor event focused on organic products.

Editorial staffs who meet press guidelines may register online at expowest.com/press. Natural Products Expo West is open to a professional audience of manufacturers, buyers, and industry members. It is not open to the general public.

For Industry news and coverage of Natural Products Expo West before, during and after the event visit newhope360.com.

Natural Products Expo West is produced by New Hope Natural Media, a division of Penton Media Inc., the leading media resource and information provider for the natural, organic and healthy products industry, with print, in-person/event, and e-business products and services.

Contact: Heather Smith
(303) 998 – 9232
hsmith@newhope.com

SOURCE New Hope Natural Media

Whole Foods Market® and The Beer Wench present “Beer is for Lovers” virtual Twitter tasting

Tue, 31 Jan 2012 18:33:19 +0000

BERKELEY, Calif. (January 31, 2012) – Move over red wine and Champagne, craft beer is giving this Valentine’s Day a run for the money. Sparks are sure to fly as Whole Foods Market (@WholeFoods) and The Beer Wench (@TheBeerWench) combine forces for another hour of live beer tasting fun.

Aptly themed “Beer is for Lovers,” the virtual tasting is on February 7, from 7 to 8 p.m. EST, live on Twitter. Join Whole Foods Market and The Beer Wench as they taste through a playful quartet of palate-tantalizing beers, sure to bring out the romantic side of even the most cynical beer lover. All it takes to participate is a Twitter account and a beer in hand. To follow the conversation, use the hashtag #WFMBeer in your tweets.

For this event, four craft breweries across the country will participate to present a lineup of beers worthy of Cupid’s praise. Whether you plan on snuggling up with a loved one or celebrating with friends on Valentine’s Day, any or all of these beers will do the trick.

The featured beers include:

The Poet, New Holland Brewing Co.: The Poet has a rich, smooth malt character enveloped in tones of roast and chocolate. A soft mouth-feel brings luxurious flavors and a soothing aroma. The Poet is a seductive companion to dinner and dessert, especially beef, mushrooms and chocolate. 5.2 percent abv.

Raging Bitch Belgian-Style IPA, Flying Dog: In the words of Gonzo artist Ralph Steadman, Raging Bitch is “two inflammatory words…one wild drink. Nectar imprisoned in a bottle.” With fruity funk and hop bite, it is big, bold, beautiful, and complex, just like a Raging Bitch should be. 8.3 percent abv.

Chocolate Stout, Bison Brewing: Often referred to as Barry White’s voice in a bottle, Bison’s Chocolate Stout is a dark, slow-pouring aphrodisiac of the smoothest proportions; rich roast, slightly bitter, but oh so luscious. 100 percent certified organic. 5 percent abv.

Total Domination, Ninkasi Brewing: Multiple hops collide in balanced perfection, dominating the senses, achieving total satisfaction. From the Pacific Northwest, birthplace of the modern IPA, comes a beer whose name says it all. 6.7 percent abv.

Every fifteen minutes, the focus will shift to a different brewery as brewmasters actively answer questions and share stories about the beers and the breweries. The February 7 “Beer is for Lovers” Twitter Tasting schedule is:

7 p.m. EST: New Holland (@newhollandbrew) “The Poet”
7:15 p.m. EST: Flying Dog (@flyingdog) “Raging Bitch”
7:30 p.m. EST: Bison Brewing (@bisonbrew) “Chocolate Stout”
7:45 p.m. EST: Ninkasi (@Ninkasi) “Total Domination”
8 p.m. EST: After-party (free for all!)

In addition to tasting via Twitter, Whole Foods Market will be streaming the tasting live, with The Beer Wench, from its Coddingtown store in Santa Rosa, CA. All are welcome to join the event in person or watch it live on the Whole Foods Market LiveStream channel (livestream.com/wholefoods).

Participation is limited to those 21 years or older.