Crunchies Nominated For 2016 United Fresh Produce Innovation Awards

Chicago, IL — Whether it’s their strikingly rich color, antioxidant properties or numerous health benefits, there’s no question that the beet has become a go-to vegetable for natural foods consumers. With these attributes in mind, Crunchies introduces this essential superfood to its deliciously addictive line of freeze-dried snacks. Crunchies Freeze-Dried Beets are a Produce Innovation Awards finalist at this year’s United Fresh Show (booth #1441), proving that single-ingredient snacks can deliver nutrition, taste and convenience all in one.

“Because ‘pure’ and ‘nothing added’ are the building blocks of our brand, we knew that we wanted to introduce a vegetable that complemented our mission of health and transparency,” says Crunchies President and CEO Scott Jacobson. “Beets, a well-known superfood, are the perfect, natural addition to our line.”

Crunchies is the only U.S. consumer freeze-dry brand that is vertically integrated “farm to fork,” meaning that it knows exactly where its fruits and vegetables were harvested. Crunchies’ new beets, for example, are grown and processed in France by farmers the company knows and trusts.

“Our UK-based supplier is a veteran when it comes to freeze drying beets. Unlike the European population, which has considered beets a dietary staple for years, Americans are only recently realizing the culinary versatility and nutritional benefits of this superfood,” adds Jacobson.

In addition to their sensory appeal and nutritional density, beets have the ideal composition for freeze-drying, a low-pressure drying process that allows for high retention of nutrients and antioxidant phytochemicals. Unlike dehydration, freeze-drying requires no additives for preservation and generally means a longer shelf life, lighter weight and that satisfying crunch.

Crunchies Freeze-Dried Beets will be available in stores nationwide for an SRP of $4.99 for resealable pouches and $1.69 for single-serve packs. Like all Crunchies products, they contain no added sugar and no artificial flavors or coloring and are non-GMO, gluten-free, vegan, kosher and halal certified. Other Crunchies products in the line include strawberries, mango, pineapple, blueberries, raspberries, grapes, cinnamon apple, strawberry banana and mixed fruit.

Be sure to stop by Booth #1441 at the United Fresh Show for more information, and to purchase via the company’s website, visit CrunchiesFood.com.

About Crunchies

Founded in 2004, Crunchies Natural Food Company was the first consumer brand to focus on freeze-dried snacks. Recently acquired by Chaucer Food Group, Crunchies offers a variety of delicious freeze-dried fruits and vegetables that are ideal for eating on their own or in recipes. Committed to responsible sourcing and traceability, Crunchies is the only U.S. consumer freeze-dry brand that is vertically integrated farm to fork. All Crunchies products feature only one ingredient – fresh fruit or veggies – and are Non-GMO Project Verified, Gluten Free Certified, vegan, Kosher Parve and Halal with no added sugar or artificial flavoring. For additional information, visit CrunchiesFood.com or engage with the brand on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Source: Crunchies Natural Food Company