Healthy, prepackaged food that tastes good may sound like a pipe dream, but it’s not. Not if Sandridge Food Corp. has anything to say about it. Food needs to undergo a preservation process in order to be shipped all around the world and to make it to the plates of consumers, but the methods of preservation often leave something to be desired. The food has little taste and too much added salt, not to mention problems with food-borne illness. Mark D. Sandridge, CEO of the company, is leading a reworking of prepackaged restaurant food.
The company took steps to create a more efficient and effective processing system. The company’s high-pressured processing technique is different from most other food processing methods. Instead of using heat, the company uses cold water and a high-pressure system to preserve the food. The new method works on a variety of foods, from leafy greens and dried cranberries to shrimp and poultry. By not using the usual heat method, the refrigerated foods manufacturer figured out a way to extend shelf life and avoid depleting the food of its natural flavors.
Because the food does not lose a lot of flavor, they do not have to add high levels of sodium to the food. Less sodium in foods is great news for a nation that is battling health problems related to heavy salt intake. This process also brings the company one step closer toward its goal of bacteria-free food and reducing the risk of product recalls. Restaurants can also offer healthier foods in smaller markets that were previously unreachable due to shorter shelf life. The process also gives peace of mind to the consumer, who will likely be able to pronounce every ingredient on the label.
The company is very excited to be the first company to invest in high-pressure processing systems for a clean-label approach. Sandridge Food Corp. delivers soups, salads, entrees, desserts and sauces to foodservice and retail markets. It also develops proprietary recipes for its customers.
How to reach: Sandridge Food Corp., (330) 725-2348 or www.sandridge.com
