Colorado is Underdog in GMO Labeling Election Battle
Just 10 corporations are responsible for more than $13 million of the $14.3 million total contributed to kill the Colorado GMO labeling bill.
Photo: Pexels
With more than $25 million poured in to defeat statewide GMO labeling ballot initiatives in 2014, a small cabal of multi-national biotech, pesticide and junk food companies seeks to buy the elections in Colorado and Oregon.
Seeking to crush a groundswell movement in the U.S. to label genetically modified (GMO) foods, a small group of multi-billion-dollar pesticide, biotech and junk food companies have poured more than $14 million into Colorado in September and October to defeat Proposition 105, a grassroots voter initiative to label GMO foods.
Just 10 corporations, including Monsanto, DuPont, PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Kraft, General Mills, Hershey, Smucker, Dow and Kellogg, are responsible for more than $13 million of the $14.3 million total contributed to kill the Colorado GMO labeling bill.
Also of note among the donors seeking to defeat the Colorado GMO labeling bill are Abbot Nutrition and Mead Johnson, companies that make nutritional formulas for infants and the elderly – companies that do not want mandatory GMO labeling on their packaging.
In contrast, while more than 170,000 Coloradans signed petitions to place the bill on the November statewide ballot – nearly twice the number of signatures needed – the underdog Right to Know Colorado campaign has raised less than $1 million in cash and pledges, mostly through small business donations along with hundreds of $5, $10, and $25 contributions to the campaign from primarily Colorado citizens.
“I can’t understand why these corporations would put over $14 million into a Colorado campaign where the pro-labeling side has less than $1 million,” said Larry Cooper, Co-chair of the Right to Know Colorado campaign. “What are they trying to hide?”
More Biotech Funds Targeted to Colorado than Oregon Ironically, while a similar GMO labeling voter bill in Oregon, Measure 92, has been able to raise significantly more funding - $6.3 million in total - biotech has pumped more into Colorado than Oregon to defeat the GMO labeling measure - although that gap is closing rapidly as Election Day approaches. Monsanto, PepsiCo, Kraft, Coca-Cola, Land O'Lakes, General Mills, Hershey and other chemical and food multinationals top the list of donors to the No on 92 campaign in Oregon. To see the list of donors to both the Yes and No sides in Oregon, visit http://gov.oregonlive.com/election/2014/finance/measure-92/.
Delayed until the Colorado Supreme Court finally cleared the initiative to move forward in March following a complaint filed by the anti-labeling opposition, the Right to Know Colorado campaign got a late start but surprised industry followers by collecting more than twice the number of signatures needed to place the bill on the November ballot.
The Yes on 105 campaign has received important media endorsements from the Daily Camera, Colorado's second largest newspaper, and BizWest, one of the state's leading business journals. Additionally, in September, a 20-member Citizens Initiative Review panel endorsed Colorado’s Prop. 105 to label GMOs by a vote of 11-9. (A similar panel in Oregon voted 11-9 against Measure 92.)
In Colorado, Chipotle Mexican Grill, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, and Whole Foods Market have provided significant support for the Yes on 105 campaign, helping to get out the vote through their stores and via endorsements and social media.
Major contributors to Colorado's Yes on 105 and also the Oregon pro-labeling campaign include Presence Marketing/Dynamic Presence, Food Democracy Now, Organic Consumers Association, Annie's Inc., Dr. Bronner’s, Boulder Brands and others. For a complete list visit www.righttoknowcolorado.org/donors and www.oregonrighttoknow.org/endorsements.
Grassroots organizations endorsing the Right to Know Colorado ballot initiative include Moms Across America, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, Colorado Moms for GMO Labeling, Conservation Colorado, Alliance for Sustainable Colorado, Hazon, and others.
Seeing this rising tide of grassroots consumer and citizen support for GMO labeling as a threat to profits, Monsanto, Dow, DuPont, Pepsi, Coke, Kraft, Grocery Manufacturers Association, and other pesticide, biotech and junk food companies have teamed up to spend more than $125 million over the past three years to defeat GMO labeling ballot initiatives in California and Washington in 2012 and 2013, and in Oregon and Colorado this year.
More than 93% of Americans want GMO labeling, according to a 2013 New York Times survey, and in late September, before the anti-labeling ad blitz on TV, 71% of Colorado voters favored GMO labeling, yet less than three dozen chemical, pesticide and junk food companies continue to fight history with a withering amount of cash to barrage the airwaves in Oregon and Colorado with deceptive advertising to confuse voters about GMO labeling - and to buy our elections.
To donate, volunteer, or for information and to support the GMO labeling campaigns in Colorado and Oregon, visit www.righttoknowcolorado.org and www.oregonrighttoknow.org.
Steven Hoffman has served as lead fundraiser for GMO labeling campaigns including Prop. 37 in California in 2012, Washington State's I-522 in 2012, and Proposition 105 to Label GMO Foods in Colorado in 2014.
Elevate Your State of Green: Host Your Next Event at Copper Mountain
To your company, Green isn't just a color, it's a corporate dedication to being an environmental steward.
Whether Winter or Summer, Colorado's Rocky Mountains are nature's playground and a remarkable place to meet and retreat! Join us at Copper Mountain where our green-minded team will assist you in creating a memorable, natural, inspiring, and eco-friendly gathering.
At Copper Mountain, we share your commitment to green.
Impress
Copper Mountain offers an authentic Rocky Mountain experience in a European-style, slope-side village with great restaurants, shops and spectacular mountain views. Our guest accommodations feature one, two, and three bedroom condominiums. The resort is just steps from our natural playground and an easy one-hour drive from Denver.
Meet
Copper Mountain offers 68,000 square feet of meeting space to accommodate groups from 10 to 1,000. Get away from the office to host sales meetings, corporate retreats, trade fairs, conferences and key client meetings.
Retreat
Your team works hard to create a product or service that positively impacts the greater community. Reward your staff and create new strategies on the mountain. Close the deal with your client on the lift or at our world-class golf facility, Copper Creek, boasting spellbinding views of the Tenmile Range. The peaceful setting of the area will stimulate your senses and spur creativity.
Get Out
Ski, snowboard and enjoy myriad winter activities; golf, bike, hike and enjoy other activities during the summer. Close to Denver, but a world away, Copper Mountain offers your group immediate access to spa facilities, VIP ski lift access, myriad trails, parks and wilderness areas, and nearby historic towns. In Winter, you can enjoy 2,500 acres of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Footprint
Your company cares about the environment, and so does Copper Mountain. As an independent, family owned Powdr Corp resort, we believe sustaining our environment is critical to the future success of our business and to future generations. We offer the following at our resort to ensure your corporate event is green.
Recycling at the Conference Center
Composting throughout the resort
Use of plates and cutlery instead of paper and plastic to reduce waste
Natural and organic food options
Water and resource conservation
Book a meeting this fall, winter or any time of year and receive a $10 Copper Gift Card per guest. Call us today for full details and a custom proposal.
Let Us Host You At Copper Mountain - Colorado's Premier Rocky Mountain Resort
Whether it's a staff or board retreat, sales or client meeting, conference or other event, Copper Mountain is fully equipped to provide you with a memorable experience. As a natural, organic, sustainable and eco-friendly corporation, we know that it’s important to not only talk green but be green. Our commitment to environmental stewardship makes Copper Mountain the perfect location for your next corporate event.
www.coppermeetings.com | www.coppercolorado.com
conferences@coppercolorado.org, Tel 866.236.4386 x 11504
209 Ten Mile Circle, Copper Mountain, CO 80443
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Top Mexican Buyers to Meet Healthy Products Companies in Puerto Vallarta, January 23-25, 2015
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Steve Hoffman, Compass Natural Marketing, 303.807.1042
John Pagliaro, The Mexican Healthy Products Summit, 410.828.4637
Top Mexican Buyers to Meet Healthy Products Companies in Puerto Vallarta, January 23-25, 2015
The 2nd annual invitation-only The Mexican Healthy Products Summit will connect Mexico’s major retailers with North American based healthy products companies that seek or want to expand distribution in the Mexican Market.
Puerto Vallarta, Mexico (July 29, 2014) – The Mexican Healthy Products Summit seeks healthy product companies interested in beginning or expanding distribution in the Mexican retail marketplace. Over 60 buyers representing six sectors of Mexican retailers will attend. These six sectors include Supercenters such as Walmart and Costco;Supermarkets such as HEB Mexico, Chedraui, and Commercial Mexicana; Specialty Health Food Stores including The Green Corner and Origenes Organicos; Pharmaciesincluding Benavides and Guadalajara; Convenience Stores such as Oxxo and Super City; and Department Stores including Liverpool and El Palacio de Hierro.
Building off the first show’s success, exhibitors and buyers will have the opportunity to establish and build relationships in an intimate, fun setting with one-on-one meetings and networking events. Also, expert speakers will present on topics ranging fromReaching the Mexican Consumer, The Latest Healthy Lifestyle Trends and Research, and Best Export Practices.
A New Opportunity in an Evolving Mexican Landscape
Mexico’s burgeoning healthy products market reflects a growing middle class, the government’s campaign to fight obesity through education, new food nutrition laws, and increased access to healthier products. As Mexican consumers begin to change their lifestyle habits, a variety of retailers seek to meet the demand for healthier choices. Following the inaugural 2014 Summit one retailer commented, “We are grateful for the opportunity they gave us to participate in The Summit. Recently, we had a business meeting in Mexico with one of the suppliers we met at the show. I am happy to announce that we will now offer their products in our stores. Next week, we have an appointment with another vendor who we met at The Mexican Healthy Products Summit and I am sure we will come to a deal, as we are very interested in their products.”
John Pagliaro, President of The Mexican Healthy Product Summit, has partnered with Trade Show Consulting, LLC., a seasoned trade show event producer in the US and Mexico. According to Pagliaro, “The Mexican healthy products market is rapidly expanding as consumers become more aware of how they eat and what they place in their bodies affect their overall well-being. Healthy food and personal care products are leading the way and the Mexican retail sector is looking for new products to sell.”
Todd Kluger, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Lundberg Family Farms highlights the value of attending the Summit. "We had a great chance to meet retailers. In the past, we only had distribution going through distributors into Mexico, so we did not have contact with the retailers themselves. We had a real chance to sit down and talk to the retailers and discuss how we build our brand to the consumer and connect with the consumer that wants healthy and organic products."
Exhibitor Information
The Mexican Healthy Products Summit will take place January 23-25, 2015 at the Sheraton Buganvilias Resort and Convention Center in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. For details and to exhibit, contact John Pagliaro at john@healthyproductssummit.com or 410.828.4637 and visit www.healthyproductssummit.com.
About Trade Show Consulting, LLC
For over 22 years Trade Show Consulting has produced consumer and trade shows in the United States and Mexico and specializes in launching new events. The company researches trends, markets and attendee interests to identify potential shows to bring buyer and seller together in a neutral forum. ExpoNext awarded Trade Show Consulting the distinguished honor of producing one of the Top 25 Fastest Growing Shows of 2012, Fabtech Mexico. For more information visit www.tradeshowconsult.com.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com 303.807.1042
JJ’s Sweets® Awarded Whole Foods Market® Local Producer Loan
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural Marketing, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Saskia Cervantes, JJ's Sweets, saskia@cocomel.com, tel 303.800.6492
JJ’s Sweets® Awarded Whole Foods Market® Local Producer Loan; Proceeds Used to Launch New Chocolate-Covered Cocomels®, Organic Coconut Milk Caramels
Boulder, CO-based JJ’s Sweets®, maker of Cocomels®, was awarded financing via the Local Producer Loan Program by Whole Foods Market® to launch new Chocolate-Covered Cocomels® in a convenient two-pack, now available to all retailers nationwide. Cocomels, the original coconut milk caramels™, are artisan crafted, smooth and creamy caramel confections that are gluten free, dairy free, non-GMO, vegan, kosher and certified organic.
Boulder, CO (July 14, 2014) – After achieving significant growth and national distribution for its artisan-made, dairy free and certified organic Cocomels®, innovative confectioner JJ’s Sweets® was awarded a small business loan by Whole Foods Market® under its Local Producer Loan Program in the Rocky Mountain Region.
The funding was earmarked to create and launch a new product: Chocolate-Covered Cocomels®, in a convenient grab-and-go two-pack size, now available to all natural, organic and specialty food retailers nationwide.
Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are handcrafted, luscious, smooth and creamy coconut milk caramels, enrobed in a silky layer of vegan dark chocolate. The new package size is convenient and perfect for the everyday consumer to indulge in a delicious caramel confection, without any dairy or gluten. Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are available in Sea Salt, Vanilla and Espresso varieties.
“Our new Chocolate-covered Cocomels two-pack is the perfect size and price point for customers on the go. They are presented in space-saving, eye-catching display boxes - ideal for point of purchase displays and merchandising on the shelf,” said Saskia Cervantes, Director of Marketing for JJ’s Sweets.
Loan Program Supports Growth of Artisan Producers
The new Cocomels product was made possible by the support of the Whole Foods Market Local Producer Loan Program in the Rocky Mountain Region. The loan program, established in 2006, is driven by Whole Foods Market’s 11 regions, with support from the company’s central office in Austin, TX. “By playing a role in advancing new ideas, growing businesses and realizing dreams, Whole Foods Market stays connected with both our neighborhood producers and our global food community,” said Betsy Foster, Whole Foods Market Global VP of Growth and Business Development, who helps oversee the local producer loan program.
Speaking to the success of Whole Planet Foundation's micro-credit loans in developing world communities, Whole Foods Co-CEO John Mackey said, “We intend to do a similar thing to support local agriculture wherever we have stores.” Today, the Local Producer Loan Program provides up to $25 million in loans to independent businesses. Since its inception, the program has provided 184 loans to 155 companies.
“We are grateful for the support provided to us by our local Whole Foods Market region,” said JJ Rademaekers, Chief Candyman and Founder of JJ’s Sweets. “The Local Producer Loan Program has allowed us to extend our family of products and bring new Cocomels sizes to all retailers and consumers looking for a delicious treat that is organic, non-GMO, kosher, vegan, gluten-free and dairy free. Our customers will be able to indulge just the right amount with this two-pack size, or if they’re feeling generous, share with a friend!” he said.
About Cocomels® and JJ’s Sweets®
JJ’s Sweets®, maker of Cocomels® – The Original Coconut Milk Caramel™ – is a Boulder, CO-based company that creates innovative, artisan-crafted candy confections using sustainable practices, premium ingredients and old-world inspiration. Award-winning Cocomels are batch-cooked in copper kettles with dairy-free ingredients to create delicious, smooth and creamy caramels, which are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO, kosher, and USDA certified organic. Inspiration, creativity and love go into each blissfully delicious treat!
Cocomels are available to retailers and consumers nationwide in four delicious flavors: Original, Sea Salt, Vanilla, and Espresso, and come in 3 convenient sizes (Single piece tubs, 3.75 oz. Flagship boxes, and 1.5 oz. pocket packs). Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are available in convenient, 1 oz. two-packs, including Vanilla, Sea Salt and Espresso varieties.
Cocomels can be found throughout the U.S. at leading natural, organic and specialty food stores, including independent co-ops, Whole Foods Market, Fresh and Easy, Earth Fare, The Fresh Market, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Sprouts, PCC, New Leaf Market, Erewon, Lassen’s, Mother’s Market, Dean and Deluca, MOMs, and other leading retailers.
Learn more at www.cocomels.com, and on Facebook and Twitter. Contact info@cocomel.com, tel 303.800.6492.
About Whole Foods Market
Founded in 1978 in Austin, TX, Whole Foods Market® (NASDAQ: WFM) is the leading retailer of natural and organic foods, and America’s first national “Certified Organic” grocer. The company has 386 stores in the U.S., Canada and the United Kingdom.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Brand New Daiya
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Michael Lynch, Daiya Foods, michael@daiyafoods.com, tel 778.383.1471
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Brand New Daiya – Non-Dairy Products Leader Daiya Foods Appoints Healthy Lifestyles, Consumer Products Industry Veteran Terry Tierney as CEO
Natural, organic and consumer packaged goods industry veteran Terry Tierney assumes CEO helm from Daiya Co-founder Greg Blake; new leadership set to propel company to next level of strategic growth.
Vancouver, British Columbia (June 26, 2014) –Daiya Foods, creator of best-selling dairy-free, soy-free and gluten-free cheese alternative products, is pleased to announce the appointment of Terry Tierney as its CEO. Experiencing massive growth in the non-dairy, cheese alternative products market, the addition of Mr. Tierney to the team brings seasoned, professional leadership that will help propel the company to the next level of strategic growth, said company Co-founder Greg Blake.
The recent growth of Daiya Foods – founded in Vancouver in 2008 and based on an innovative, all natural recipe widely acclaimed for its remarkable cheese-like taste, consistency and melting properties – necessitated the addition of a seasoned executive to help realize the company’s aggressive long-term growth plan. Mr. Tierney has served as a director of Daiya since 2011 and has been instrumental at a strategic level in the company’s success to date.
Mr. Tierney’s career in the natural, organic and conventional grocery industry spans 30 years, serving in previous roles as the President and CEO of MyChelle Dermaceuticals, a leading natural skin care company; President and CEO of Allegro Coffee, one of the nation’s premier specialty and organic coffee brands; Chief Marketing Officer of Frontier Natural Brands, a pioneering natural and organic products company with such prominent brands as Simply Organic and Aura Cacia; and Founder, President and CEO of Rocky Mountain Natural Foods. He is, and has been, a board member for numerous natural products companies over the last 20 years. Mr. Tierney began his career in marketing and brand management at Kraft Foods.
“Terry has a long track record of leading companies through various growth stages even while serving as a Director for Daiya. We are thrilled to be in the position to further leverage his vast experience and skills in this new role,” said Daiya Co-Founder Greg Blake.
“It’s an honor and privilege to become a more integral member of the Daiya leadership team. The success that the company has earned to date is a clear testament to the talent, passion and culture that co-founders Greg and Andre (Kroecher) have built from 'Daiya 1.' I look forward to building on that foundation," said Mr. Tierney.
As the dairy-free trend gains momentum and the non-dairy cheese products category continues to experience double-digit growth, Daiya has doubled its manufacturing capacity to meet current and anticipated consumer demand. By expanding its brand portfolio to other products, including Daiya Slices and Cream Cheese Style Spreads, and the newly launched Daiya Pizza – the industry’s first dairy-free, gluten-free and soy-free frozen pizza – Daiya projects that its products will be sold in more than 20,000 stores by year end.
About Daiya Foods
Daiya products are a deliciously dairy-free alternative that melt, taste and stretch just like dairy-based cheese. Daiya is free of many of the common food allergens, including gluten, dairy, casein, lactose, soy (common to many other non-dairy cheese alternatives), egg, wheat, barley, whey, peanuts and tree nuts (excluding coconut oil). Suitable for vegans, Daiya products are free of animal products, cholesterol, trans fats, and preservatives. To learn more, visit www.daiyafoods.com.
For more information, visit the Daiya News Room, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram, Pinterest, and Twitter.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
2014 SOFI™ Award Finalist JJ’s Sweets® Features Cocomels®
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural Marketing, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Saskia Cervantes, JJ's Sweets, saskia@cocomel.com, tel 303.800.6492
2014 SOFI™ Award Finalist JJ’s Sweets® Features Cocomels® Organic Coconut Milk Caramels at Summer Fancy Food Show
JJ’s Sweets®, maker of Cocomels®, will be launching nationally with its new Chocolate-Covered Cocomels® in a convenient two-pack size. Cocomels, the original coconut milk caramels™, are artisan crafted, smooth and creamy caramel confections that are gluten free, dairy free, non-GMO, vegan, and certified organic.
Visit Cocomels™ at Booth 5239 at the Summer Fancy Food Show, June 29 – July 1, 2014.
Boulder, CO (June 24, 2014) – Innovative confectioner JJ’s Sweets® is featuring its new Chocolate-Covered Cocomels® now available in a newly redesigned two-pack at the 2014 Summer Fancy Food Show in New York City. Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are artisan-made, smooth and creamy coconut milk caramels, enrobed in a silky layer of vegan dark chocolate. Available nationwide to retailers in July, this new package size is convenient and perfect for the everyday consumer to indulge in a delicious caramel confection, without any dairy or gluten.
“Our new Chocolate-Covered Cocomels two-pack is the perfect size and price point for customers on the go. They are presented in space saving, eye-catching display boxes - ideal for point of purchase displays and merchandising on the shelf,” said Saskia Cervantes, Director of Marketing at JJ’s Sweets.
The new product was made possible by the generous support of the Whole Foods Market Local Producer Loan Program in the Rocky Mountain Region. Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are available in Sea Salt, Vanilla and Espresso varieties.
“We are excited to feature our new Chocolate-Covered Cocomels at the 2014 Summer Fancy Food Show along with our existing family of Cocomels® products. The Local Producer Loan program has allowed us to extend our product line and bring new Cocomels sizes to retailers and consumers looking for a delicious, luscious treat that is organic, gluten-free, vegan and non-GMO,” said JJ Rademaekers, Chief Candyman and Founder of JJ’s Sweets. “Our customers will be able to indulge just the right amount with this two-pack size, or if they’re feeling generous, share with a friend!” he said.
Sofi™ Award Finalist
Cocomels Sea Salt Coconut Milk Caramels, in the 3.75 oz. flagship box, has been chosen as a finalist for a 2014 Sofi™ Award in the Outstanding Confection category. The Sofi Award, which stands for “specialty outstanding food innovation,” is
known to carry great prestige in the gourmet and specialty food industry. “Our flagship boxes are our original product line. These Cocomels are presented in beautifully designed packaging. Adding a touch of tradition with modern design, the colorful and appealing boxes really stand out,” noted Rademaekers.
Retailers and foodservice buyers attending the Summer Fancy Food Show will select Sofi Award Gold Winners from the nominated Sofi Finalists.
Cocomels will exhibit at the 2014 Summer Fancy Food Show, North America’s largest annual specialty food and beverage event, June 29 – July 1, 2014, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York. The show, now celebrating its 60th year, features 180,000 products from 80 countries showcasing the world of specialty, gourmet, natural and organic foods.
Interested companies and attendees can visit Cocomels™ at Booth #5239 at the 2014 Summer Fancy Food Show or contact info@cocomel.com, tel 303.800.6492.
About Cocomels® and JJ’s Sweets®
JJ’s Sweets®, maker of Cocomels® – The Original Coconut Milk Caramel™ – is a Boulder, CO-based company that creates innovative, artisan-crafted candy confections using sustainable practices, premium ingredients and old-world inspiration. Award-winning Cocomels are batch-cooked in copper kettles with dairy-free ingredients to create delicious, smooth and creamy caramels, which are vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO and USDA certified organic. Inspiration, creativity and love go into each blissfully delicious treat! Cocomels are available in four delicious flavors: Original, Sea Salt, Vanilla, and Espresso, and come in 3 convenient sizes (Single piece tubs, 3.75 oz. Flagship boxes and 1.5 oz. pocket packs). Chocolate-Covered Cocomels are available in 1 oz. two-packs, including Vanilla, Sea Salt and Espresso varieties.
Cocomels can be found nationwide at select stores including Co-ops, Whole Foods Market, Fresh and Easy, The Fresh Market, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Sprouts, PCC, New Leaf Market, Erewon, Lassen’s, Mother’s Market, Dean and Deluca, MOMs, and many other leading retailers throughout the U.S.
Learn more at www.cocomels.com or facebook.com/JJsSweets or twitter.com/JJscocomels. Contact info@cocomel.com, tel 303.800.6492.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Fancy Snacking: GoOrganic Candies’ New Non-GMO Organic Fruit Chews
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Sandy Gencarelli, Hillside Candy, sandy@hillsidecandy.com, tel 973.926.2300
Fancy Snacking: GoOrganic Candies’ New Non-GMO, Certified Organic
Fruit Chews Featured at 60th Summer Fancy Food Show in New York
GoOrganic Candies will exhibit its new Certified Organic, Non-GMO Fruit Chews at the 60th Summer Fancy Food Show in New York, June 29 – July 1, 2014. Visit GoOrganic’s new booth and sample its entire line of delicious, organic, non-GMO, gluten-free, dairy-free and kosher candies at Booth #347.
Hillside, New Jersey (June 19, 2014) – Fresh off of receiving a nomination for the Most Innovative New Products Award in the non-chocolate category by the National Confectioners Association at the 2014 Sweets & Snacks Expo, GoOrganic Candies will introduce its new USDA Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Fruit Chews to the specialty foods market at the upcoming 60th Summer Fancy Food Show, June 29 – July 1, 2014, at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City.
Featuring authentic, mouth-watering flavors from Ginger to Pomegranate, all GoOrganic Candies are dairy-free, gluten-free and certified kosher. They contain noartificial flavors, preservatives or colors, and are made in the USA. A welcome addition to GoOrganic’s popular hard candy line, the Chews come in Ginger and Fruit flavors and are a great treat for adults and kids alike because of their chewy consistency.
GoOrganic Candies, a brand of Hillside Candy, recognizes the consumer’s desire for pure ingredients in its confectionery treats. Therefore, all GoOrganic Candies carry the USDA Certified Organic designation, using only organic or all natural ingredients and produced without the use of toxic, synthetic pesticides or genetically engineered (GMO) ingredients.
GoOrganic Hard Candies come in nine delicious flavors, including Ginger, Pomegranate, Cherry, Apple, Honey, Honey Lemon, Blood Orange, Iced Mint Mango, and Ginger Xtreme. With the addition of the new Organic Chews, including Ginger and Strawberry, Raspberry, Sour Apple and Lemon Fruit Chews, the entire GoOrganic Candies line is also Non-GMO Project Verified.
Commitment to Organic, Non-GMO Ingredients
“Obtaining Non-GMO Project Verification for our entire line of candies was important to us – and to our customers. GoOrganic is committed to providing health-conscious consumers and their families with tasty treats, and also the peace of mind that we are committed to sourcing the highest quality, cleanest ingredients available,” says Sandy Gencarelli, Director of Marketing and Export Sales for Hillside Candy, maker of GoOrganic Candies.
GoOrganic Candies’ new booth will be featured at the Summer Fancy Food Show. The new booth is bigger and better with lots of room for information, samples and meetings.
GoOrganic Candy will exhibit at the 60th annual Summer Fancy Food Show, North America’s largest specialty food and beverage exposition, June 29 – July 1, 2014. The show features 180,000 products including confections, cheese, coffee, snacks, spices, ethnic, natural and organic foods and more. Visitors will connect with 2,400 exhibitors from 80 countries and regions. Interested companies and attendees can visit GoOrganic Candies at Booth #347, and contact info@hillsidecandy.com, tel 973.926.2300.
About GoOrganic Candies
GoOrganic™ Candies are available in 3.5 oz. and 30 oz. family size gusseted pouches. Products are available in leading natural, organic and specialty food retailers including: Whole Foods Market, Fresh Market, Natural Grocers, Fairway Market, Wakefern/Shoprite, Wegmans, Stop & Shop, Hannaford’s, Sweet Bay, Earth Fare, Lunds & Byerly's, Hy-Vee, Sprouts Farmers Market, QFC, Mollie Stone’s, New Seasons Market, and other leading stores, and online at www.hillsidecandy.com. For wholesalers and retailers, GoOrganic™ Candies are available through UNFI, Kehe and other leading distributors.
Upcoming Events
In addition, please visit GoOrganic Candies at these upcoming food industry events:
- Natural Products Expo East, Baltimore, MD, September 17 - 20, Booth 2918
- SIAL Paris, Paris, France, October 19 - 23, Organic Trade Association Pavilion
About Hillside Candy
Hillside Candy, a family-owned business based in Hillside, NJ, and first established in 1945, prides itself on producing premium products made from only the finest ingredients. Hillside Candy offers three very distinct product lines. Each product brand enjoys widespread distribution throughout the U.S. and internationally, including GoLightly Sugar Free Candy, Hillside Sweets, a line of sugar-based hard candy, and GoOrganic Candies, providing Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Hard Candies and Fruit Chews. Hillside Candy is a member of the Organic Trade Association. For more information, visitwww.hillsidecandy.com, info@hillsidecandy.com, tel 800.524.1304.
Visit the Hillside Candy News Room, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Snacking Organically: GoOrganic Fruit Chews
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Sandy Gencarelli, Hillside Candy, sandy@hillsidecandy.com, tel 973.926.2300
Snacking Organically: GoOrganic Adds Fruit Chews to Flavorful,
Certified Organic Confectionery Line – Now Non-GMO Project Verified!
GoOrganic Candies will showcase its full line of Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, premium Hard Candies and Fruit and Ginger Chews at the Sweets & Snacks Expo at McCormick Place in Chicago, May 20-22, 2014. Visit GoOrganic Candies at booth #1127.
Hillside, New Jersey (May 15, 2014) – GoOrganic Candies, hand made in the USA with no gluten or dairy, has added Organic Fruit Chews to the company’s Non-GMO Project Verified product offerings. The Chews come in Ginger and Fruit flavors and are a great snack for adults and kids alike because of their chewy consistency. All GoOrganic Candies are kosher and Certified Organic and contain no artificial flavors, preservatives or colors.
According to Mintel’s 2013 “Non-Chocolate Confectionery” report, the non-chocolate confectionery category has realized a 34 percent growth since 2007. It is estimated that the category will grow another 15 percent through 2017, as consumers enjoy creative products and continue to perceive many of these items as affordable indulgences. Additionally, there is a trend in this category to focus on pure ingredients. Claims such as kosher, all natural and no additives or preservatives are also popular in this category, reports Mintel.
GoOrganic Candies recognizes the consumer’s desire for pure ingredients in its confectionery treats. Therefore, all GoOrganic Candies carry the USDA Certified Organic designation, using only all natural ingredients and produced without the use of toxic, synthetic pesticides or genetically engineered or GMO ingredients.
GoOrganic Hard Candies come in nine delicious flavors, including Ginger, Pomegranate, Cherry, Apple, Honey, Honey Lemon, Blood Orange, Iced Mint Mango, and Ginger Xtreme. With the addition of the new Organic Chews, including Ginger and Strawberry, Raspberry, Sour Apple and Lemon Fruit Chews, the entire GoOrganic Candies line is also Non-GMO Project Verified.
“It was important for us to obtain non-GMO verification for our new Fruit Chews thus making our entire line Certified Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. GoOrganic is committed to providing our customers with tasty treats but also the peace of mind that we are committed to sourcing the highest quality, cleanest ingredients available so consumers can feel good about sharing our treats with their kids. We can’t wait for attendees to sample our candies at the Sweets & Snacks Expo,” says Sandy Gencarelli, Director of Marketing and Export Sales for Hillside Candy, maker of GoOrganic Candies.
A Sweet New Booth for Sweets & Snacks Expo
Also debuting at the Sweets & Snacks Expo is GoOrganic’s newly designed and expanded exhibit booth. The new booth offers ample room for information, product samples, signage and meetings and can be reconfigured for any trade show or event.
GoOrganic Candies will exhibit at the Sweets & Snacks Expo, named one of the 50 fastest-growing trade shows in the country by Trade Show Executive, May 20-22, 2014. With more than 15,000 industry professional in attendance, the show will cover 162,000 square feet and is already sold out. Interested companies and attendees can visit GoOrganic Candies at booth #1127 and contact info@hillsidecandy.com, tel 973.926.2300.
In addition, please visit GoOrganic Candies at these upcoming events:
• Summer Fancy Food Show - New York, NY, June 29 - July 1, Booth 347
• Natural Products Expo East - Baltimore, MD, September 17 - 20, Booth 2918
• SIAL Paris - Paris, France, October 19 - 23, Organic Trade Association Pavilion
GoOrganic™ Candies are available in 3.5 oz. and 30 oz. family size gusseted pouches. Products are available in leading natural, organic and specialty food retailers including: Whole Foods Market, Fresh Market, Natural Grocers, Fairway Market, Wakefern/Shoprite, Wegmans, Stop & Shop, Hannaford’s, Sweet Bay, Earth Fare, Lunds & Byerly's, Hy-Vee, Sprouts, Sprouts Farmers Market, QFC, Mollie Stone’s, New Seasons Market, and other leading stores, and online at www.hillsidecandy.com. For wholesalers and retailers, GoOrganic™ Candy is available through UNFI, Kehe and other leading distributors.
About Hillside Candy and GoOrganic Candies
Hillside Candy, a family-owned business based in Hillside, NJ and first established in 1945, prides itself on producing premium products made from only the finest ingredients. Hillside Candy offers three very distinct product lines. Each product brand enjoys widespread distribution throughout the United States and Internationally, including GoLightly Sugar Free Candy, Hillside Sweets, a line of sugar-based hard candy, and GoOrganic Candies, providing Certified Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified Hard Candies and Fruit Chews. Hillside Candy is a member of the Organic Trade Association. For more information, visitwww.hillsidecandy.com, info@hillsidecandy.com, tel 800.524.1304.
Visit the Hillside Candy News Room, like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Non-GMO Smart Balance® Spread Available Nationwide
For Immediate Release:
Healthier Buttery Spreads Innovator Implements National Distribution of New Non-GMO Flagship Product
BOULDER, Colo., May 14, 2014 – Consumers in search of non-GMO alternatives can now find delicious and flavorful Smart Balance non-GMO buttery spreads in grocery stores nationwide.
Smart Balance, an innovator in great tasting, heart healthier spreads, announced in March the planned transition of its entire product line to non-GMO – the first leading national spread to go non-GMO. This week, Smart Balance is shipping millions of tubs of the new non-GMO buttery spreads to national and regional grocery stores across the country. Distribution will continue ramping up in May, with a complete transition this summer.
Smart Balance, owned by Colorado-based Boulder Brands, revamped its ingredients sourcing and manufacturing processes in response to growing consumer demand for non-GMO products. The new Smart Balance delivers the same delicious, buttery taste and nutritional benefits with no increase in price to customers.
“We are delivering on our promise to make non-GMO Smart Balance widely available, and importantly, without raising the cost to retailers who sell our product,” said Duane Primozich, executive vice president of Smart Balance and Balance Brands. “We wholeheartedly agree with consumers and advocates who support greater transparency in food ingredients, and who want healthier, less processed foods with simpler ingredients.”
Grocery shoppers will find the new, distinctive Smart Balance square tubs bearing a prominent “non-GMO” label and pledge. The pledge outlines the commitment to make Smart Balance using only non-GMO ingredients, including expeller-pressed oils from non-GMO seeds. Smart Balance also has taken steps to reduce risk of contact with GMO-containing ingredients in its manufacturing facilities, including adding new processing equipment and storage.
“Getting our flagship spread product – now non-GMO – to consumers across the country is an important milestone on our journey to convert the entire Smart Balance product line,” said Primozich. “At Boulder Brands, we embrace and support the burgeoning consumer movement toward deeper understanding of what’s in – and importantly, what’s not in – the foods that we serve our families.”
Launched in 1997 Smart Balance was the first leading spread to eliminate partially hydrogenated oils, a major source of trans fat, which the FDA recently declared unsafe and has proposed banning from U.S. food products. Smart Balance uses a unique blend of non-GMO oils in its spreads that are clinically proven to help balance cholesterol ratios as part of the Smart Balance Food Plan.
Additional product facts and information are at www.SmartBalance.com/nonGMO.
About Boulder Brands, Inc.
Boulder Brands, Inc. (NasdaqGM: BDBD) is committed to offering food solutions that give consumers opportunities to improve their lives – one product at a time. The company’s health and wellness platform consists of brands that target specific health trends: the Glutino® and Udi’s Gluten Free® brands for gluten-free diets; the Earth Balance® brand for plant-based diets; the Level Life™ brand for diabetes-friendly diets, EVOL foods for consumers seeking simple and pure ingredients; and the Smart Balance® brand for heart healthier diets. For more information about Boulder Brands, Inc., please visitwww.boulderbrands.com.
Corporate Contact:
Director, Caroline Hughes, chughes@boulderbrands.com, 720-550-5018
Corporate Communications, Boulder Brands, Inc.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042
Donatos® to Showcase New Gluten-Free Sonoma Flatbread Pizzas
For Immediate Release:
Contact:
Eric Drees, Marketing Coordinator, Jane’s Dough Foods, edrees@donatos.com, tel 614.416.6853
Steven Hoffman, Compass Natural Marketing, steve@compassnatural.com, tel 303.807.1042
Authentic Restaurant-style Pizza for the Gluten-free Consumer
Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos® to Showcase its New Gluten-Free
Flatbread Pizzas at Chicago-area Gluten & Allergen Free Expo
Visit Jane’s Dough Foods and sample delicious, gluten-free Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos®, made with “simply honest ingredients,” at the Gluten & Allergen Free Expo, the largest gluten-free exposition in the United States, April 12-13, 2014, in Schaumburg, IL. Each person that likes Sonoma Flatbreads on Facebook at the Expo will be entered for a chance to win an iPad Mini; drawing will be held on April 14.
COLUMBUS, Ohio – (April 7, 2014) – Coming off a successful exposition of their newest gluten-free pizza at Natural Products Expo West in March, Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos® is continuing to rise. The emerging new brand will exhibit at the Gluten & Allergen Free (GFAF) Expo in Schaumburg, IL, on April 12-13, 2014. The Gluten & Allergen Free Expo, which attracts more than 20,000 gluten-free and allergen-free consumers each year, is hosting the first iteration of its six-city tour this year in the Chicago area. The Expo features presenters who are experts in the gluten and allergen free space and is touted to be the largest gluten free exposition in the United States.
Appealing to everyday and gourmet pizza lovers alike – and to those who like to personalize their pizza – the newest offering to join the Sonoma Flatbreads line of gluten-free pizzas is Chicken and Fire Roasted Peppers. This 12” pizza has a net weight of 18.88 ounces and includes a special Crushed Red Pepper spice packet.
Exhibiting at Gluten & Allergen Free Expo is timely for Jane’s Dough Foods, an independent, family-owned company celebrating more than 50 years of business, as the company is innovating the way consumers think about gluten-free pizza. “We are redefining gluten-free pizza by combining the flavors and ingredients that speak to today’s consumer with 50 years of restaurant industry know-how,” says Alan Hoover, General Manager of Jane’s Dough Foods, maker of Sonoma Flatbreads. The pizza features antibiotic-free chicken that was fed a vegetarian diet and is minimally processed. The pepper trio includes fire roasted green, red, and yellow bell peppers. A rich tomato sauce and lightly smoked provolone round out the offering. Made with “simply honest ingredients,” there are no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in any of the Sonoma Flatbreads line. Each serving of the new pizza flavor provides 14 grams of protein. The suggested retail price is $8.99.
Get Your “Za” at GFAF
In addition to the new Sonoma Flatbreads Chicken and Fire Roasted Peppers variety, three existing gluten-free pizzas will be available for sampling.
They include:
Uncured Pepperoni that is nitrate and nitrite-free
Three Cheese featuring smoked Provolone with Parmesan and Romano
Margherita featuring fresh pearl mozzarella and Roma tomatoes
The Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos line was first introduced into the Kroger “Nature’s Market” set in their Columbus, Ohio division in January 2013. Within the first 12 months, the gluten-free pizzas had become the #1 and #2 best-selling gluten-free pizzas in that Kroger division. Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos are also available at leading retailers including Giant Eagle, Meijer, Hy-Vee, Heinen’s, Roche Brothers, Raisin Rack and numerous independent retailers across the country have taken on the line. Distributors include Bozzuto’s, Lipari Foods, KeHe, Sherwood, Clover Mountain, and Merry Milk Maid.
In the Chicago area, Sonoma Flatbreads by Donatos can be found at Caputo’s, Mariano’s, and other leading supermarkets and specialty food stores.
Win an iPad Mini at GFAF
Each person that likes Sonoma Flatbreads on Facebook at the show will be entered for a chance to win an iPad Mini. The drawing will be held on Monday, April 14, at 5:00 pm EST, and the lucky winner will be notified on Facebook.
About Jane’s Dough Foods
“Jane” really is a person! Jane Grote-Abell is the founder and owner of Jane’s Dough Foods. Founded in 2008, the company is based in Columbus, Ohio, and manufactures dough, pizzas, and flatbreads for retail frozen and deli, foodservice, and convenience stores across the United States, Japan, and Puerto Rico. Jane’s gluten-free dough is certified by the Gluten-Free Certification Organization.
Recently featured on “Undercover Boss,” Jane Grote-Abell is also the Chairwoman of Donatos Pizzeria LLC, an independent family-owned business consisting of 154 Donatos restaurants in six states. Established in 1963 by her father, Jim Grote, Donatos is now celebrating more than 50 years in business.
For more information, visit www.sonomaflatbreads.com or www.janesdoughfoods.com, telephone # 614.416.7700. Also, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
Communications by Compass Natural Marketing
info@compassnatural.com | 303.807.1042