Sorrento Cheese Launches First Omega-3 Cheese on the Market

22/04/08 As consumers continue to be increasingly health-conscious and functional food savvy, supermarkets continue to respond by stocking shelves with food products that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition to meet consumer demand. In response to dietary trends showing that Americans are not getting enough omega-3 fatty acids, foods fortified with omega-3 fats, such as Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) are in high demand, especially by people interested in improving their health and well-being.

Research has shown the benefits of EPA and DHA omega-3 fatty acids in heading off cardiovascular diseases (CVD) such as heart disease and stroke, in healthy people and in those at risk. Scientific studies show those omega-3 fatty acids are critical for brain development and function and proper vision. And emerging research suggests those omega-3s may be associated with a lessening of age-related cognitive decline in the elderly.

Continuing in step with this emerging demand, Sorrento, the brand known for offering consumers its delicious, fresh-tasting cheeses with more than just basic nutrition, is introducing the Sorrento + Plus String Cheese with Omega-3s as the newest member to the Sorrento +Plus snack string cheese family. Sold under the Precious and Sorrento brand names in West and East coast markets, respectively, the +Plus Omega-3 string cheese is made with milk containing a high level of DHA and EPA omega-3s. The +Plus Omega-3 string cheese also contains seven grams of protein, and offers a portable and convenient nutritional choice that fits well with today's health conscious, "grab and go" consumer.

"The new +Plus Omega-3 snack cheese responds to consumer demand for foods that offer nutrition, health, convenience and taste all rolled into one," says Susan Thomas, Marketing Manager, Snack Cheese at Sorrento Lactalis. "We're responding to one of the top food attributes requested by consumers. With this new addition to the +Plus line, consumers can enjoy the same delicious, fresh cheese taste that Sorrento is known for and feel good about eating healthy at the same time."

"A growing body of evidence links omega-3 fatty acids with a long list of health benefits," says Elizabeth M. Ward, MS, RD, author of The Pocket Idiot's Guide to the New Food Pyramids and The Complete Idiot's Guide to Feeding Your Baby and Toddler. "Don't let the word 'fat' scare you," Ward says. "It is important to avoid saturated and trans fats, but omega-3 fatty acids are beneficial, and studies shows that children and adults should be consuming more omega-3s for optimal health. "

The +Plus Omega-3 string cheese is a new option for the majority of Americans who do not eat enough omega-3 fatty acids on a regular basis. It is an especially welcome addition for those who are unable to enjoy fish.

The new +Plus Omega-3 cheese comes individually wrapped in one ounce servings, with six servings per package. The suggested retail price is $3.99 and $4.29 for Sorrento and Precious brand names, respectively.