WINNIPEG, Canada, June 25, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Growing demand for healthier food products is prompting food manufacturers to look for alternative ingredients. While canola oil has the lowest saturated fat among all major vegetable oils, Richardson Oilseed Limited is taking canola oil even further with the introduction of high oleic canola oil with natural antioxidants. Richardson will be promoting its new canola oil this week at the IFT Annual Meeting and Food Expo, the largest food ingredients show in the world, which takes place in Las Vegas from June 25 to 28.
"Food manufacturers are facing the challenge of incorporating healthier ingredients into their products without impacting the flavour and texture that define their brands," says John Haen, Richardson's Vice President, Nutrition. "As food manufacturers seek healthier oil solutions, we are working with them to create innovative new products that meet customer needs."
While commodity canola oil provides the health benefits of reduced saturated fat, it has lower stability than high oleic canola oil. Richardson's new high oleic canola oil with natural antioxidants offers high stability and functionality that can extend product shelf life. It also allows food manufacturers the opportunity to have cleaner label declarations because the high oleic oil includes natural, not artificial, antioxidants. The oil is a natural fit for many snack food applications, such as croutons, snack crackers and dried fruit.
"Our new high oleic oil is ideal for food manufacturers looking to increase shelf life, maximize crispness and improve spice/seasoning adherence," says Haen. "Our goal is to provide our customers with functional products that retain the original flavour and texture of their products, ultimately satisfying customer demand for healthier food products that taste good."
Recognized as a leader in the Canadian canola industry, Richardson Oilseed is a vertically integrated, innovative manufacturer of canola-based oils, margarine and shortening supplying retail, foodservice, food processors and industrial bakeries worldwide.
Richardson Oilseed Limited is a wholly owned subsidiary of Richardson International, Canada's largest, privately owned agribusiness. Based in Winnipeg, Richardson has more than 1,700 employees across the country and is a worldwide handler and merchandiser of all major Canadian-grown grains and oilseeds. Richardson is one of Canada's Best Managed Companies and is recognized as a global leader in agriculture and food processing.
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