In The News

There are many world events that affect the cost and the availability of our products. Here are some news items to keep you informed of the events that have impact on our industry. Please send us an e-mail and let us know if you have found this page useful.

7/31/2008

Why Are Pasta Prices So High?

The last 18 months have seen an unprecedented increase in the cost of pasta. The reasons are many and complex. First, there were dramatic increases in the cost of wheat in 2007, due in part to drought conditions in several wheat-producing nations. The cost of durum semolina to the pasta plant in Italy is currently 250% of the price two years ago. In addition, there has been pressure on all grain products (corn, rice, wheat) due to the demand for bio-fuels. Energy costs play a part in many ways: transportation of raw materials, production in the pasta plant, ocean freight and delivery of finished goods. The other big factor is the weak U.S. dollar. It now takes more dollars to buy goods from elsewhere in the world, especially from Europe.

Even so, Pastene pasta remains a very economical and healthful plate to serve. Consider that a 1 lb package of our pasta and a jar of Pastene sauce (or a can of Kitchen Ready Tomatoes) costs only a few dollars and can easily serve 3-4 people. What other dish can you prepare that is as satisfying, healthful, and economical?

 

Lycopene Health Benefits: Lycopene is found in abundance in processed red tomatoes. The USDA reports: "Although the evidence is not conclusive, lycopene in fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes and tomato products, may reduce the risk of prostate cancer."

The Mediterranean Diet: The Mediterranean diet consists of a healthier balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, and many studies have shown that people who follow this diet are less likely to develop heart disease.

All Natural Products: Pastene has, for over a century, quietly been providing imported and domestic Italian foods free from preservatives, chemical additives, extra sugar, or unwanted salt.

What Makes a Pastene Product All Natural: Pastene has always provided its customers with the finest quality products. We believe that food in its purest state - meaning it has no artificial ingredients, is minimally processed

Olive Oil Health Benefits: An abundance of fruits, vegetables and beans provides the many different phytochemicals that protect blood vessels and guard cells against cancer-causing substances. Now, studies show that olive oil may bolster each one of these benefits. Originally, scientists thought olive oil’s primary benefit was its monounsaturated fat. "

Omega 3 Fatty Acids: The health benefits of eating fatty fish that contain Omega 3 are substantial. While on going research is not conclusive, it does suggest that increasing your fish intake will bring desirable health benefits. Pastene's Tonno, Sardines and Spicy Tunas (all packed in olive oil) are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids.

Sunflower Oil Health Benefits: Sunflower oil is the oil of choice for sauteing oil in Italy and a host of other countries. Chefs like the fact that the oil has a high smoke point (320° F, 160º C) and neutral flavor.

Whole Wheat and a Healthy Diet: The American Heart Association has stated "Whole-grain foods are an important part of a healthy diet because they are a rich source of both insoluble and soluble dietary fiber. Soluble fiber has been shown to help lower LDL cholesterol levels (the bad cholesterol), and therefore reduces the risk of coronary heart disease.