Mills finds new retail niche
03/04/2005
from The Produce News

Mills Family Farms’ “Wholeaves®” washed, ready-to-use, individual lettuce leaves are now available in retail-friendly bags. The Salinas, CA-based company’s retail packs are fresh, nutritious and offer the ultimate in convenience.

Available in green leaf, red leaf, Romaine and green cascade mix®, Mills Family Farms’ “Wholeaves®” are perfect for topping a sandwich, dressing up a burger or tossing into a sensational salad. “Wholeaves®” are also ideal for gourmet wraps.

“Wholeaves®,” available year round, are premium lettuce leaves that are individually selected, separated from the core with a patented “no-cut” system, meticulously washed and carefully packed. When handled properly, the product can stay fresh for up to 21 days, eliminating the need to use preservatives.

Each leaf is gently hand-separated from the core, leaving its vital tissue naturally intact. The patented method protects every leaf from dehydration and leaf shock that can result from processing methods in which lettuce is chopped or cut.

“Wholeaves®” won the American Culinary Institute Best of Class award in the foodservice whole-leaf lettuce category for 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. In a blind taste test by a panel of professional chefs, “Wholeaves®” were judged “superior in appearance, flavor, taste and overall impression.” Additionally, Mills Family Farms’ “Wholeaves®” received The American Culinary Federation nationally acclaimed Seal of Approval for 2005.