Rä Foods Introduces New Produce Category: COLD GROWN Rä Nanoshoots

Sacramento, CA – Rä Foods LLC has introduced a brand new produce category called COLD GROWN® Rä Nanoshoots® as the alternative to traditional sprouts that have a long history of food safety issues.  Rä Nanoshoots are tiny living plants, grown untouched in sealed 3 oz. packages, at cold temperatures to insure the highest level of food safety.  They have a naturally long shelf life of 21 days that means less shrink for the grocer and better value for the consumer. 

COLD GROWN Rä Nanoshoots are ready to eat, available year-round, and are produced in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way.  They are herbicide-free, pesticide-free, GMO-free, and use only a fraction of the water required in growing traditional sprouts.

Due to continuing food safety concerns with traditional sprouts the Rä Foods LLC team turned to the Vista Institute, LLC to develop a better alternative.   “We wanted to go beyond the standard practices of seed sanitation and water testing as the means of assuring food safety,” said Dan Sholl, General Manager of Rä Foods LLC.

The problem with the traditional process for growing sprouts is that it germinates seed under conditions that encourage the growth of dangerous seed-borne pathogens.   Growing traditional sprouts also requires a significant amount of product handling that can introduce environmental pathogens.  Both contribute to traditional sprouts being subject to shorter shelf life and frequent food safety recalls.

“Cold became our key to inhibiting pathogen growth,” said Susan Harlander, PhD, Managing Partner, The Vista Institute, LLC.  “After more than two years of research we succeeded in developing the patent pending COLD GROWN process that creates a product environment hostile to pathogens, and allows Rä Nanoshoots to grow in the package to prevent environmental contamination” said Harlander.

In independent laboratory trials of the COLD GROWN process using inoculated samples of Rä Nanoshoots, they observed an actual die off of Salmonella and E. coli, the two organisms primarily responsible for the vast majority of food safety issues associated with traditional sprouts.

Each package of Rä Nanoshoots is like a tiny growing garden.  “They produce a lush canopy of tender leaves and fine shoots, all visible through the transparent tray,” said Sholl.  Rä Nanoshoots come in several “flavors”: 

• Clover is sweet
• Clover/Alfalfa has a sweet, nutty character
• Clover/Broccoli blend is mild and peppery
• Spicy Blend (Clover/Radish blend) is true to its name

Research has shown that various types of tiny plants may contain from 4 to 40 times higher levels of important vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants than the mature versions of each variety.  Using Rä Nanoshoots instead of lettuce adds flavor, and crunch to sandwiches, salads and many other dishes.  They are a natural choice for active families looking for healthier menu options.

The November release of COLD GROWN Rä Nanoshoots, packed 6-3 oz. clamshells per case, will be on a limited basis through select west coast grocers.

For more information visit www.rananoshoots.com .  For technical information call Susan Harlander at 952-475-9088, ext. 220.  For sales information call Dan Sholl 916-381-2305.

Rä Foods LLC brings fresh, natural foods to market to enhance the consumers’ lifestyle, health, and confidence in their food choices.

The Vista Institute, LLC’s team of food scientists, food safety experts, and brand innovators develop creative solutions for food and beverage companies.

Source: Rä Foods LLC