Read the Labels

Sometimes people ask us why our products are different than the big store brands. The answer is simple yet complicated. Read the labels... Our jams are made using old-fashioned cane sugar and not corn syrup. No additives and definitely no preservatives. Only locally sourced ingredients as much as possible (yes, our berries come from the Pacific North West).

Also, we make our jams in small batches for a couple of reasons. One is to turn the stock around in a short amount of time so that we always have fresh products. The second is for better control of the cooking process; it is easier to manage smaller batches to maintain color and flavor than a large kettle which would take longer to boil and finish off.

We have all heard about the side effects of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and how it spikes your insulin and is a major cause of obesity. I see many barbecue sauces and other marinades on the market containing HFCS and added preservatives like potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate. They might be cheaper to make but the flavor doesn't compare to our barbecue sauces containing natural cane sugar and absolutely no preservatives. Chemically HFCS is much sweeter than regular sugar therefore the manufacturer can use less and the cost is much less. There is a noticeable difference in the flavor profile between a barbecue sauce made with HFCS and one made using cane sugar; a much sharper sweetness that dissipates fairly quickly leaving an off-flavor on the tongue. We prefer to use ingredients you would use in your own home for the freshest flavor. Your tongue is smart.

Rest assured, E. Waldo Ward has never used HFCS or even regular corn syrup in our jams or sauces. You can call us old-fashioned - we like that. Come take a look at www.WaldoWard.com and read the labels.

Spring Fever

Okay, let's face it, I am anxious for this misty overcast weather to be over. Let the sun shine! Here we go with our first blog. I just learned how to "tweat" and "facebook" so bear with me as I begin a new journey with blogging.

First , we have been working hard on a couple of new items for release this year. One is ready to go and the other is still in the creative phase. The first product is a Mexican Red Sauce which seems like it doesn't belong in E. Waldo Ward's product lineup. Actually this sauce is absolutely the best cooking sauce for any type of meat I have ever had. The flavor is similar to a enchilada sauce but made for carnitas (pork), carne asada (steak), peces (fish), or even huevos (eggs). I modeled it after an excellent sauce that I fell in love with from Trader Joes which they no longer carry.

The second product we have in mind will be for the fall. We are planning on introducing a cranberry and apple sauce with walnuts. Although we still haven't finalized the ingredients yet, we think this will be a great addition to any gourmet holiday meal.

Wow, our first "blog" and it wasn't too difficult. I look forward to sharing more information about our company's history, our products, and what we are up to with all of you.

Jeff Ward