IN THE NEWS...

Frozen yogurt sales boosted fourth quarter and full-year sales and earnings at YoCream International, Inc. A Portland manufacturer and wholesaler of frozen desserts and beverages, YoCream said fiscal year 2009 sales increased 18.1 percent to $50,733,000 during the 52 weeks ended Oct. 31, 2009. Net income reached a record level of $5,639,000 in 2009 compared with $4,380,000 in 2008.

Officials said frozen dessert sales for the fiscal year increased to $41,873,000 versus $32,140,000 a year ago. They attributed the 30.3 percent increase to "exceptional growth" in the company's core frozen yogurt products.


Refrigerated foods processor Sandridge Food Corp., Medina, Ohio, said it was certified as a Safe Quality Food (SQF) 2000 Level 2 food manufacturer by the independent certifying body, SAI Global. Sandridge said it was awarded an excellent rating of 97.83 percent, the highest level of compliance.

"For several years, we have had a multi-departmental team approach, consisting of the highest levels of management, which drives food safety and quality throughout our organization," says Mark Sandridge, chief executive officer.  "We provide our associates with continuing training and education because we recognize that all of our associates at every level have a major impact on safety, quality and the ultimate satisfaction for our customers."

Sandridge produces refrigerated deli salads, soups, entrees, desserts, sauces and dips for the food service and retail sectors.