The Food Bank of South Jersey and Campbell Soup Company have teamed up to create Just Peachy salsa, made from New Jersey peaches. The new product is expected to raise more than $100,000 for the Food Bank’s nine hunger relief programs.
Campbell’s culinary team created the salsa recipe that uses peaches grown by farmers in the Eastern ProPak Farmers’ Cooperative of Gloucester County, N.J. Because of their size and blemishes, these peaches cannot be sold and would ordinarily be discarded in landfills. Campbell is donating product costs and has engaged hundreds of employee volunteers to make and package the salsa.
“This is great example of how companies can truly make a difference in their communities by applying their expertise and the skills of their employees,” said Dave Stangis, Vice President, Public Affairs and Corporate Responsibility. Stangis says the program will save farmers landfill costs and provide the Food Bank with a future model for sustainable revenue.
“It’s a win for local farmers, a win for the community and a win for the Food Bank of South Jersey,” said Val Traore, CEO of the food bank. Traore says the program will fund several hunger relief programs that help more than 171,000 people, including 57,000 children.
Anthony Yula of Summit City Farms in Glassboro, N.J., says the destruction of peaches is sad. “This project is fantastic for growers,” said Yula. “What farmers most want is for our produce to be enjoyed.” Just Peachy salsa uses nearly half a pound of fresh peaches per jar and also includes crushed tomatoes, jalapenos, onions, cilantro and garlic.
For information on where to purchase Just Peachy salsa, go to www.foodbanksj.org or call 856-662-4884.
