American Italian Pasta Company Expands Foodservice Offerings

KANSAS CITY, Mo., March 19 /PRNewswire/ -- American Italian Pasta Company (AIPC), the largest producer of dry pasta in North America and longtime leading provider of pasta to the foodservice industry, is extending its foodservice offerings with the introduction of three new brands for foodservice customers.

Ravarino and Freschi (R&F) - This popular St. Louis pasta brand - founded by two Italian immigrants in 1901 - is being introduced nationwide as AIPC's marquee line of authentic Italian style pasta for foodservice. The R&F brand has more than 40 traditional pasta shapes and sizes, including a variety of uniquely flavored pastas, which complement a range of sauces and culinary applications.

Heartland Pasta - The health segment of the pasta category has continued to experience double digit growth since the introduction of the new Food Pyramid in 2005 and better-for-you pastas are appearing on an increasing number of restaurant menus. Heartland Pasta, already recognized throughout the country as a popular better-for-you pasta offering sold through the retail channel, will now be available to AIPC's foodservice customers. Heartland Pasta is currently offered in four nutritionally enhanced varieties: Heartland Whole Wheat, Heartland Whole Grain, Heartland Naturals (organic) and Heartland Plus with ALA Omega-3.

Montalcino Pasta - AIPC is also extending its Montalcino Pasta brand to value-oriented foodservice customers as part of the foodservice brand expansion.

By integrating old world pasta making expertise with the company's state- of-the-art manufacturing technology and production capabilities and focusing on delivering outstanding quality and service, AIPC has established itself as a leader in the foodservice channel. AIPC's broad range of pasta products provides an expanded array of quality and health-focused options that reflect the evolving preferences of consumers and the needs of our customers.

Founded in 1988 and based in Kansas City, Missouri, American Italian Pasta Company is the largest producer and marketer of dry pasta in North America, with brands including Mueller's(R), Golden Grain(R), Heartland(R), Martha Gooch(R), Pennsylvania Dutch(R), Pasta LaBella(R), R & F(R), Luxury(R), Ronco(R) and Anthony's(R). The Company has four plants that are located in Excelsior Springs, Missouri; Columbia, South Carolina; Tolleson, Arizona; and Verolanuova, Italy.

Product images are available.