Diet or Lifestyle Product 2008

Outstanding Diet or Lifestyle Product 2008: Organic Nectars Raw Agave Gelato—Pistachio

Lisa Protter and her business partner Steve Treccase wanted to show their clientele that there are many applications for agave syrup. The creators of Organic Nectars, Woodstock, N.Y., a raw, organic food company that supplies raw agave syrup to retailers and restaurants, decided that ice cream was the way to go.

“When you make an unusual product like raw ice cream, you do not want to alienate your customers. But, we chose ice cream because everyone is familiar with it,” notes Protter. Sticking to the raw diet credo where only fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds can be used and not be heated above 118 degrees F., Treccase began experimenting with nut milks.

The creamy textured Raw Agave Pistachio Gelato is cashew-based and free of dairy, soy, refined sugar, eggs, gluten and GMOs, and is vegan and organic. Protter also notes that its unpasteurized state provides optimal nutrition. “Because it is agave-sweetened, it has a low glycemic index and is suitable for diabetics. It is also appropriate for people who are lactose intolerant or who are looking for an organic solution,” she continues.

Retailers can promote all of the attributes of the product, Protter notes, in addition to its raw state. Raw Agave Pistachio can be integrated into the frozen case rather than merchandised in a special section, “although it helps to draw attention to the raw category, which is growing in interest,” she adds.

Pistachio is one of Organic Nectars’ 12 flavors. The line is also available in 1-gallon tubs for foodservice. Suggested retail: $7.49/1/2 pint; organicnectars.com.—Nicole Potenza Denis

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