American entrepreneur cook, restaurateur, and author Paula Deen has partnered with Nanco Group to form Paula Deen Foods.
The company, which is headquartered in Savannah, will offer food products for the retail market under Paula Deen Foods brand.
Paula Deen Foods will be based on traditional Southern recipes as well as lighter ones. The initial product line will include all-natural tortilla chips made with fresh vegetables and a line of compound 'finishing' butters, which enable cooks to bring a fresh butter taste to various dishes.
The all-natural chips and finishing butters will be stocked by leading retailers Walgreens and Walmart.
Paula Deen Foods CEO Steven Nanula said, "We're honored to bring Paula's great products and recipes to American families to provide fresh meal solutions with the best ingredients that make every day eating a special occasion."
In 2013, in addition to her all-natural chips and finishing butters, Deen will be launching a line of sugar-free and premium chocolates to the marketplace.
Nanco Group, which is owned by the Nanula family, is the founding partner of Tops Friendly Markets. The group also started Wilson Farms Stores, which was sold last year.
