Norwalk, Iowan craft meat makers La Quercia are known for its artisanal craft meats and its commitment to sustainable and humane practices. Its prosciutto is pure bliss, and now the company is eyeing new territory—grab-and-go snacking.
I spoke with Herb Eckhouse to learn more about the company, its commitment to humane husbandry, and its new retail offerings on the floor of the Winter Fancy Food Show.
“Now we're introducing our Rustix Salami Sticks. It's essentially a mini-salami—really the same high quality of meat and very simple ingredient list,” Herb told me. “We offer two flavors now—smokey and spicy. So we're excited about it and we've had a great response.”
Snacking isn’t the only new development in La Quercia’s saga. The company has undergone a number of changes over the course of the last few years—introducing new products and branding and building on its already impressive animal welfare bona fides.
“We upgraded the meats so it's all Berkshire pork and it's GAP 3, which means it's rated Step 3 by the Global Animal Partnership. And then GMO-Free Project Verified,” Herb added. “And then we also have our spreads, which we introduced this summer but many people haven't had a chance to see them yet, so it's a great opportunity for us to show retailers, what's new from La Quercia.”
For more, watch our brief video interview above.
