June 29, 2011

Foster Farms launches first GanedenBC30-fortified milk brand

Foster Farms' Dairy Balance Milk is one of the first milk brands to be fortified with the patented probiotic, GanedenBC30, and one of only a handful of probiotic-enhanced milks currently available to consumers.

"Probiotics are 'good bacteria' that has been shown to improve digestive health and support immunity. Sales of yogurt enhanced with probiotics have dramatically grown and studies have proven Dairy Balance delivers more active cultures than yogurt," said Jeff Foster, president of Foster Farms Dairy.

Foster Farms said Ganeden Biotech, makers of GanedenBC30, developed the unique formulation to survive harsh manufacturing processes-including those used in milk processing-unlike other probiotic strains. This durability also withstands harsh stomach acids, allowing the delivery of more beneficial cultures.

Dairy Balance, which has the same taste, texture and colour as milk, is now available at more than 300 Northern California locations, including CVS/Pharmacy, Berkeley Bowl, Nugget Markets, Winco and O'Brien's Market in the central, Bay Area and Sacramento Regions. Distribution to more than 500 outlets is scheduled by the end of the year. Dairy Balance milk is offered in whole and 2% reduced-fat varieties and has a suggested retail of US$3.49 for a half gallon.

"Our goal was to offer a value-added product for our consumers' health without changing their normal eating habits. Since almost every household in America purchases milk, and most drink it every day, what better way to provide people with their daily dose of probiotics?" said Rick Werhel, vice president of sales marketing for Foster Farms Dairy.

Consumers worldwide have recognized the health benefits of food products enriched with probiotics. Global probiotic retail sales have grown from US$100 million in 2002 to more than US$7 billion in 2010. Retail sales of probiotic products are projected to top US$11 billion in the next two years.