Diamond Foods Introduces Emerald Marcona Almonds

25/07/07 Diamond Foods, Inc., a leading branded food company specializing in processing, marketing and distributing culinary nuts and snack products, announced the introduction of Emerald Marcona Almonds. This new limited release snack product is being shipped this month to select retailers nationwide and is packaged in Emerald's signature hourglass-shaped canisters with distinct black and gold graphics.

Known as the "queen of almonds," Marconas are heart-shaped and smooth with an incomparably sweet, delicate taste. They are very versatile, and are ideal as snacks or ingredients for salads. Emerald Marcona Almonds are blanched, lightly roasted in sunflower oil and sprinkled with sea salt.

"Marcona almonds, which originated in Spain, are culinary delicacies that are becoming increasingly popular with chefs and gourmet snackers in the United States," said Andrew Burke, senior vice president of marketing, Diamond Foods. "Because the worldwide supply of Marcona almonds is very limited, we are excited to be able to offer them during the summer to discerning retailers and consumers under our Emerald label to further demonstrate that Emerald is the nation's premium line of unique snack products."

With Emerald Marcona Almonds, Diamond is specifically targeting consumers who are seeking natural, nutritious and less processed foods. Emerald Marcona Almonds will be sold in 11.5-oz. canisters with the suggested retail price of $6.99.

"Emerald Marcona Almonds will begin appearing on store shelves in August and we are confident that this product will be enthusiastically received by consumers who have come to rely upon Emerald for top-quality, wholesome snacks," said Burke. "Almonds have a particular appeal to nutrition-conscious consumers. They are packed with calcium and Vitamin E, as well as heart-healthy unsaturated fat." A recent study shows that when people eat roughly a handful of almonds a day, they lower their LDL cholesterol by 3%.

The Emerald snack line, which made its nationwide debut in August 2004 with 14 products, has grown to 23 permanent snack nut and trail mix products, with distribution in approximately 84% of the nation's grocery stores. The brand is quickly gaining additional distribution in drug stores, convenience stores, club stores and mass merchandising outlets as well. According to research by Hall & Partners, Emerald has gained brand awareness of 85%.