 |
Add to Favorites
|
Gelato Going Green
By Fran Goldenberg
Reprinted from PrimeWoman Magazine Summer Issue July 2007
With new forms of recycling, fuel-efficient cars, energy conserving light bulbs and composting, we take small steps to save the planet. Imaging making the world a better place each time you enjoyed your favorite dessert. Picture reducing your family’s exposure to dangerous pesticides and chemicals with every sweet treat you serve them.
When Marcia Blackwell lost her office manager job in 2005, a trip to the unemployment office opened up a new door for her. Always passionate about conservation and health, Marcia Blackwell started Blackwell’s Organic with the help of the New Jersey Self-employment Assistance Program. The SEA program provides weekly compensation in place of unemployment benefits, technical assistance in developing a business plan and entrepreneurial training courses. Her husband Tom’s homemade recipes for dairy-free and fruit sorbetto provided just the right business idea.
By January 2006, Blackwell’s Organic LLC was up and running out of Red Bank. Health conscious without sacrificing taste, Blackwell’s Organic Soy Gelato and Fruit SOrbetto are cholesterol free and completely vegan. “We use only the highest quality certified organic ingredients, real fruit and fruit juice,” explains Blackwell. Their product is free of preservatives, additives, and extracts.
Marcia and Tom Blackwell explain, “Each of us, individually and as a company, must strive to make the world a better place and inspire others to do the same. We believe we can make a difference and effect social and environmental change by how we live our lives and how we run our business.”
Therefore, it is not surprising that the Blackwell’s home was the first solar energy house in their town of Long Branch. The system, installed in 2004 by GeoGenix LLC of Rumson, converts sunlight into electricity. Excess energy is stored and saved for later use. The 30 solar panels on their front rooftop resemble skylights, and some¬times bring inquiries as people drive past the home. Marcia Blackwell is pleased with the interest it draws, happy to explain to others the benefits of renewable energy. They actually held an open house for their new solar energy system to answer questions and encourage others.
Marcia enjoys taking conservation into her own hands. Bringing her environmental concerns into the gelato and sorbet business is a decision that benefits our sweet tooth as well. The taste of the product speaks for itself in the growth of the company over a short period. Blackwell’s Organic gelato and sorbet products are currently distributed to retailers in nine states, in high demand in Central Jersey and shipped anywhere in the US.
The variety of flavors is enticing. If you are a traditionalist, there is vanilla, strawberry, and chocolate, of course. Fruit lovers can try lemon, orange, raspberry or even mango and the adventurous spirit can dip into the peanut butter chocolate swirl. Taste is the first priority and great taste is created by using only the highest quality ingredients, with minimal processing on the finest equipment imported from Italy. When asked about their competition in this whole food market, Marcia explained, “There is none. There simply is no one else making a high end certified organic product without adding such things guar gum, pectin or other fillers.”
Blackwell's Organic is constantly evolving and searching for new and kinder ways to deliver an exceptional product. Working with suppliers and distributors that have ethics that resonate with theirs, they continually explore new sources for quality organic and Fair Trade Certified™ ingredients. Whenever possible, the Blackwells support local organic farmers. Their commitment to taste and quality is one to be savored, one delicious spoonful after another.
Blackwell's Organic, LLC - 9 Catherine Street, Unit D - Red Bank, NJ 07701
732.229.8899 (ph) 732.876.0358 (fax)
© 2007-2008 Blackwell's Organic, LLC No reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission.
Site maintained by WSI - Photo by Michael S. Miller Photography | Terms and Conditions
732.229.8899 (ph) 732.876.0358 (fax)
© 2007-2008 Blackwell's Organic, LLC No reproduction, in whole or part, without written permission.
Site maintained by WSI - Photo by Michael S. Miller Photography | Terms and Conditions
