Rickland Orchards Introduces the First Shelf-Stable Greek Yogurt Bar

FAIRFIELD, N.J., April 10, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Rickland Orchards has announced today the launch of the first-ever Greek Yogurt Bar; the optimal nutritious, delicious, and all natural, on-the-go snack. Rickland Orchards Greek Yogurt Bars feature honey-roasted granola and real fruit dipped in Authentic Strained Greek Yogurt imported from Europe. Rickland Orchards is the first to offer consumers Greek Yogurt in a shelf-stable, great tasting bar; and furthermore provide an excellent source of fiber and a good source of protein in each serving. Now, busy parents, active kids and teens, and health conscience consumers can enjoy the benefits of Greek yogurt AND probiotics effortlessly.

According to CEO and Co-Founder, Jason Cohen, "We are thrilled with the overwhelming positive response we have received on our Greek Yogurt Bars. We have developed the perfect combination of great taste, strong nutritional values and on trend, quality ingredients."

The phenomenon of Greek yogurt has spread across all consumer groups, and Rickland Orchards is staying ahead of the curve by expanding into non-traditional ways in which to enjoy Greek yogurt. In 2007, Greek yogurt sales totaled $35.4 million and the projected Greek yogurt sales for 2012 are estimated to be well over $2 billion.  Rickland Orchards Greek Yogurt Bars are already flying off the shelves in major markets across the country. The company has received authorizations in over 10,000 locations in the first 90 days of its launch.

"We have literally traveled the globe in the last 6 months searching for the best ingredients and securing our supply of shelf-stable, authentic Greek Yogurt", said President & Co Founder Michael Sands.  "Working with the top food scientists was a must before we approved the product for launch. The hard work paid off - the acceptance by dry grocery buyers has been incredible. They see the growth of Greek Yogurt in the refrigerated section and want to capitalize on it in their set."

Rickland Orchards All Natural Greek Yogurt Bars are layered with the finest granola, real fruit and nuts, and authentic Greek yogurt.  The combination of our nutritional benefits and great taste are the secret recipe to our successful launch. Our one-of-a-kind bars are available in six distinct flavors – Blueberry Acai, Cherry Almond, Toasted Coconut, Cranberry Almond, Apple & Honey, and Orchard Peach. Rickland Orchards Greek Yogurt Bars contain all natural ingredients, 5g of fiber, 7g of protein, and probiotics.

Rickland Orchards founders and industry veterans, Jason Cohen and Michael Sands, have a track record of creating innovative food brands. With a history of listening to buyer feedback and striving to meet their customer's needs, in 1999 Mr. Cohen co-founded Mamma Says, Inc. a biscotti company that later sold to Nonnis Food Co. in 2005. Cohen then Co-Founded World Gourmet, specializing in better-for-you snacks under the flagship brand Sensible Portions. The company achieved explosive growth while under his management which attracted the attention of The Hain Celestial Group and led to its sale in 2010. Michael Sands equals Cohen's energy with over 25 years of consumer package goods experience as a new product innovator and leader. Sands has held senior positions while creating top selling products across several food and beverage categories including Snapple and Ben & Jerry's. Most recently he served as the CEO of Balance Bar Company.

Rickland Orchards, a wholly owned subsidiary of Natural Instincts LLC, is an innovative food company focused on making healthier products convenient and delicious through listening to buyer and consumer insights. Rickland Orchards products are sold nationally.

Visit us at www.ricklandorchards.com, and www.facebook.com/ricklandorchards.

For more information, please contact BrandLink Communications – 323.302.9876
Jose Martinez / [email protected] or Taylor Anderson / [email protected]

SOURCE Rickland Orchards