In recognition of Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, FreshDirect is showcasing its AAPI-led and operated food brands throughout May. Featured products are displayed on the company’s AAPI Heritage Month landing page.
“FreshDirect is putting the spotlight on the AAPI-owned and operated food brands that we partner with," said a company spokesperson. "These one-of-a-kind items innovate, delight, and make our culinary landscape so much richer, and we are proud to feature these brands on our homepage.”
Brands include:
Sanzo—FreshDirect carries this Asian-inspired sparkling water in Mango, Lychee, and Calamansi-citrus flavors. The founder, Sandro Roco, a Queens, New York-born Filipino American, created the brand after noticing that many legacy Asian soft drinks were filled with added sugar; he endeavored to make a no-sugar-added, naturally sweetened beverage.
Momofuku—The retailer stocks the brand’s Noodles, Chili Crunch, and Soy Sauce. David Chang, chef, TV personality, and the brand’s founder, is known for his empire of restaurants, products, and cookbooks.
Mushroom King—The brand grows nutrient-packed organic shiitake and heirloom mushrooms by leveraging East Asian techniques to limit its carbon footprint and reduce water consumption. Father-and-son duo Jimmy Ho and Joshua Ho founded the company over 20 years ago, and the son continues to run the company with sustainability in mind.
Noona’s Ice Cream—The women-owned brand founded by Hannah Bae features many Korean-inspired ice cream flavors that the retailer stocks, including Toasted Rice, Green Tea, and Black Sesame.
Nguyen Coffee Supply—The company was founded by first-generation Vietnamese-American Sahra Nguyen. The coffee is roasted in Brooklyn, New York, and beans are imported via direct-trade relationships with Vietnamese roasters.
Additionally, during the month the brand will also feature on its social media channels a recipe for Hong Shao Rou, Red Braised Pork Belly, from social media influencer Cindy (@ChubbyChineseGirlEats).
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Image: FreshDirect