"Never, Ever" Means No Additives and No Hormones

ST. LOUIS - What does it mean when food is promoted as "natural?" As consumer demand gives rise to a variety of "natural" products that question is becoming more difficult to answer.

However, with Schnucks Natural Beef and Pork there is no need to read the fine print. A guarantee printed on the package states that these products were never, ever exposed to antibiotics or growth hormones.

U.S.D.A. guidelines state that a "natural" product includes minimal processing (not cooked, smoked, cured or marinated) and no artificial colors or ingredients. According to Schnucks Vice President of Meat Ed Meyer, Schnucks is taking that promise to a whole new level. "While much of the `natural' products you will find in the marketplace meet these minimum requirements, Schnucks Natural Never, Ever Beef and Pork go far beyond that. This brand offers customers a guarantee that the food they are eating fits into their lifestyle."

The Schnucks Natural Never, Ever beef currently is being produced by Tyson Fresh Meats, Inc. of South Dakota and the Pork comes from Hormel of Austin, Minn. Regional Fresh Meat Sales Manager for Hormel David Jordan explains that the meat contains no preservatives. "Specific breeds are chosen to deliver consistent pork quality to achieve excellent flavor, juiciness and tenderness. All are vegetarian fed and have Never, Ever had antibiotics or growth hormones. "

Jordan added, "All of our hogs are raised under environmentally conscious production facilities that use air chilled technology that insures quality. Rapidly circulated cold air chills much quicker and adds to the tenderness of the meat."

Beginning this week, Schnuck Markets Natural Never, Ever meats will be in all Schnucks and Logli stores.

Founded in St. Louis in 1939, Schnuck Markets, Inc. operates 101 stores (including five Logli stores) and 98 pharmacies in Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Iowa, Tennessee and Mississippi.

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