Crest Foods launches 815Eats line of local products

ASHTON - Crest Foods Co. has launched 815Eats, a new line of microwavable dips and the company’s first retail brand.

“Selling our own products has been a longtime dream of ours,” Crest Foods President Jeff Meiners said. “815Eats allows us to leverage some of our biggest strengths as a company – full service product development, exceptional sourcing and turn-key manufacturing. Everything is handled locally from our facilities in Ashton.”

The first 815Eats product is a line of microwave dips in four flavors: Chili Con Queso, Black Bean & Jalapeño, Tuscan Bean and Curried Chickpea. To eat, customers add water, stir and microwave for 90 seconds. All are 100 calories.

“815Eats represents not only our area code, but also our Midwestern values and the joy we find in food, family and friendships,” said Gaven Meiners, 815Eats sales and research manager. “We’re proud of our roots and wanted a name that reflected that.”

Sales initially launched online at 815Eats.com and product continues to be available for shipping throughout the U.S.

“It’s a completely new marketplace concept and allows consumers to enjoy an indulgent, portion-controlled treat,” Gaven said. “With 1/2 cup prepared dip per container, there’s enough to share, but there’s no need to feel guilty if you decide not to.”

Retail distribution is expanding includes local stores Oliver’s Corner Market in Dixon, Mimini’s General Store in Ashton, Benny’s Corner Market in Rochelle, Amboy Food and Liquor in Amboy, Polo Fresh Food Market in Polo, and Lanark Food Center in Lanark.

Crest Foods Co., Inc. is a third generation, Meiners family owned dry food manufacturer founded in 1946. The company operates out of Ashton and employs a workforce of 650.