Pork Rinds in the News & Other Fun Stuff

Rudolph Foods Issues Recall on Select Products

San Bernardino, California (January 9, 2010)—Rudolph Foods is recalling 39 cases of Pepe’s Louisiana Hot Gigante Cracklins, 3,537 cases of 7-Select Louisiana Hot Onion Rings and 420 cases of Rudolph’s Louisiana Hot OnYums, because it may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Pepe’s Louisiana Hot Gigante Cracklins were distributed in Southern California. Rudolph’s Louisiana Hot OnYums and 7-Select Louisiana Hot Onion Rings were distributed in California, Nevada, Oregon, Arizona and Washington State.

The products being recalled are the 3.5 oz. Pepe’s Louisiana Hot Gigante Cracklins with UPC # 0-24622-51131-7 and code date March 19, 2010; 1 5/8 oz. 7-Select Louisiana Hot Onion Rings with UPC # 0-52548-05785-5 and code dates February 26, 2010 through April 30, 2010; and 8 oz. Rudolph’s Louisiana Hot OnYums with UPC # 0-24622-57079-6 and code dates February 5, 2010 and March 12, 2010. Please reference 4-digit manufacturing codes that include an “s”, located beneath the sell by date, for affected products.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recall was initiated after it was discovered that the manufacturer inadvertently placed the wrong packaging on these products that did not reflect the presence of the milk ingredient.

Consumers who have purchased Pepe’s Louisana Hot Gigante Cracklins, 7-Select Louisiana Hot Onion Rings or Rudolph’s Louisiana Hot OnYums are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Todd Zwiebel, Corporate Quality Assurance Manager, Rudolph Foods at 800-342-7546 ext.112.

Download this press release. (pdf opens in a new window)

Winners Selected to Receive Free Pork Rinds for a Year

Lima, Ohio (November 23, 2009)—Rudolph Foods, the world’s largest producer of pork rinds, announced today the winners of the company’s Hispanic–inspired “Que hay de cena?” or “What’s for Dinner?” recipe contest. Entrants were asked to send in their favorite pork rind recipes using Rudolph Foods or Pepe’s brand products. In all, five finalists were selected from all of the entries submitted. One grand prize winner will receive a cash prize of $300 and four runners up earned an assortment of free Pepe’s brand products for a year.
The winning recipes, which came from consumers across the country, are featured on the Rudolph Foods’ Website Recipe Page and include the following:

• Stacked Chicken Enchilada’s Especial — Michael Johnson, Terrebonne, OR
• Luau Pig Poppers — Shelly Fisher, Hermiston, OR
• Chicharrones & Egg Tostadas — Peter Halferty, Corpus Christi, TX
• Elote Spoon Bread — Angelique Page, Chicago, IL
• Spanish Style Pork & Sweet Potato Fritters with Coconut Herb Sauce — Cheryl Perry, Hertford, NC

Read the entire press release. (pdf opens in a new window)

On Tuesday, November 17, 2009 Rachael Ray will feature Rudolph’s own delicious Cinnamon Churros as her Snack of the Day. Click here to see highlights from Tuesday’s show.

Lima, Ohio (October 12, 2009)—Rudolph Foods, the world’s largest manufacturer of pork rinds and cracklins and a leader in branded and private-label snack products, is pleased to announce the launch of a new social media campaign for both the Rudolph brand and its popular Southern Recipe brand. To meet their consumers where they are—in social circles—Rudolph Foods will join consumers in their everyday conversations through the use of Twitter, Facebook, Flickr and more.

Read the entire press release. (pdf opens in a new window)

Get the straight facts about the health food qualities of pork rinds. Click the play button to start the video.

Rudolph Foods Hosts Hispanic-Themed Pork Rind Recipe Contest

Lima, Ohio (August 1, 2009) —Rudolph Foods, the world’s largest producer of pork rinds, has launched a recipe contest in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage month, September 15—October 15. ¿Qué hay de cena?, or “What’s for Dinner?” will encourage consumers to share original and creative Hispanic-inspired recipes incorporating Rudolph Foods® or Pepe’s® brand pork rinds for a chance to win a cash prize, free product and more. From September 1—October 30 consumers can submit recipes via the company’s web site at www.RudolphFoods.com or through the U.S. mail.

A panel of judges, comprised of Rudolph Foods executives and cooks, will judge submitted recipes based on authenticity, creativity and flavor. In all, five finalists will be selected from among all entries submitted, earning an assortment of Pepe’s brand products for a year. One grand prize winner will receive free product for a year in additional to a cash prize of $300.

Read the entire press release. (pdf opens in a new window)

Lea el comunicado de prensa entero en Español

Lima, Ohio (July 2, 2009)—To meet growing consumer demand for authentic, ethnic snacking options, Rudolph Foods, the world’s largest manufacturer of branded and private-label snack products, announced that it will unveil a new chili and lime-seasoned, puffed wheat snack to its popular line of snack products. As a new addition to Rudolph’s line of wheat-based snacks, Chicharinas drive home the brand’s commitment to adding even more variety to its expansive array of crunchy snacks. The new product is expected to hit grocery and C-store shelves throughout the country late summer, 2009.

Chile & Lime Chicharinas meet the need for new flavor profiles. In fact, recent consumer studies predict that to meet consumer demand, new products must be anything but bland, mild or boring. It is further forecast that snackers are inclined to select new products with a touch of spice to jazz up traditional flavors. Consistent with the culinary seasonings of Latinos, Chile & Lime Chicharinas will be made available in 2.75-ounce packages. Offering wheat as the primary ingredient, Chicharinas are also a healthier snacking alternative.

Read the entire press release. (pdf opens in a new window.)

Lima, Ohio (July 2, 2009)—Southern Recipe, a top ten brand of pork rinds and cracklins, has introduced a new Red Pepper Cracklin Dipper to their popular line. Slated to hit shelves later this summer in southern and southeastern states, this new cracklin snack meets the growing consumer demand for spicy flavors with a new scoop shape.

Red Pepper Dippers introduce a new innovative shape to this nostalgic snack. The new scoop shape, designed for the distinct ability to hold a large amount of dip, meets consumer demand for a more filling, robust snacking experience. With zero carbs and more protein than a serving of peanuts, these cracklins also present a healthy snacking option.

Read the entire press release. (pdf opens in a new window.)