Name that tuna at IFEX
MANILA, Philippines - The health benefits of tuna have been highlighted the world over and it’s been included in diet regimens in the past years. Tuna contains Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) that are found to lessen the risk of cardiovascular diseases by decreasing triglyceride levels, slowing the growth rate of atherosclerotic plaque, and lowering blood pressure. An excellent source of protein, tuna is likewise packed with selenium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, niacin, and folic acid.
The Philippines is ranked as the 5th largest producer and a premier source of tuna in the world. KM Food Products, a family-run enterprise based in General Santos City, manufactures innovative value-added tuna products without monosodium glutamate (MSG) and artificial coloring. With the health of consumers as their topmost consideration, KM Food Products avoids using these substances so their tuna products will provide maximum health benefits without sacrificing flavor.
“Our products retain their natural fish color without any artificial coloring or “smoking” process,” says KM Food Products’ marketing manager Khrisna Gabaldon. “Tuna or any processed fish undergoes a normal discoloration process — from fresh red to a pale color. Discoloration can be hidden through a “smoking” process, seasonings or any artificial coloring like achuete that are available on the market. But through our new technology and natural ingredients, we offer value–added tuna products that keep their natural color without discoloration.”
Tuna chorizo Since its introduction into the market, the company has won numerous awards for its value-added tuna products. Bagging the “Product Innovator of the Year” for the second time during the 5th Annual Yaman Awards of the Yaman Gensan in 2009, the company also won the Top Seller Award for Processed Food Category at the Philippine National Trade Fair in the same year.
Its products are handcarried by OFWs or their families to countries such as Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Hawaii, the US mainland, and the Middle East . A few balikbayan boxes sent to Vallejo, California opened doors for negotiations to export the company’s products to California, USA.
After joining the National Trade Fair in 2008, the company evolved into being a top producer of value–added tuna products and innovative tuna processing. A regular exhibitor at the International Food Exhibition (IFEX), KM Food Products will join 19 other companies in the Partner Region Program (PRP) Pavilion. PRP is a project of IFEX that further promotes innovation and marketing of quality food products of small and medium enterprises. For the 8th IFEX Philippines, the Partner Region is Region 12 (SOCCKSARGEN). The PRP Pavilion is a gastronomic showcase where IFEX visitors can sample delectable dishes from General Santos City , along with the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani.
