January 9/Sedro-Woolley, Calif. -- Cascadian Farm introduced a new line of bars made with organic pea protein, a protein source derived solely from plants. The new chewy bars are available nationwide in two flavors -- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip and Honey Roasted Nut -- and provide consumers a convenient alternative to protein bars made with dairy and soy proteins. Cascadian Farm's bars with pea protein offer 9g of protein per serving.

"We know consumers are searching for innovative products made with protein from legumes, vegetables and nuts, and so we are thrilled to introduce a new line of bars made with organic pea protein," said Scott Lee, marketing director for Cascadian Farm. "What's especially exciting about these bars is that we've found a way to deliver this protein source while also fulfilling our promise to provide our customers with delicious organic foods the whole family will enjoy."

According to the 2012 study by The Hartman Group titled "Increased Interest in Protein," consumers are increasingly seeking protein from legumes, vegetables and nuts. Pea protein has emerged as a leading alternative protein source. While whey protein, comes from dairy manufacturing, pea protein used in the Cascadian Farm protein bars is 100% derived from organic peas. This also makes the new Cascadian Farm bars an ideal protein alternative for people who choose a vegetarian diet.

Active consumers looking to supplement their lifestyle with wholesome foods can feel certain they are making a sustainable choice purchasing Cascadian Farm pea protein bars because the bars are made with organic pea protein and farmed following organic farming methods. Organic farming methods help protect the environment by: 1) not polluting groundwater, rivers, lakes, and oceans with synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers; 2) reducing soil erosion; 3) improving soil quality; 4) increasing the diversity of wildlife on and near farms; and 5) not exposing farm workers to synthetic pesticides.

Varieties/Flavors
The new Cascadian Farm pea protein bars come in two flavors:

   -- Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip (MSRP - $4.49/box of five bars) -- Made with organic peanut butter and Rainforest Alliance Certified Cocoa, these bars pack a sweet and salty punch.
 
   -- Honey Roasted Nut (MSRP - $4.49/box of five bars) -- Packed with organic peanuts, organic peanut butter, and organic honey, the new honey roasted nut bars deliver chewy goodness and a nutty crunch.

Cascadian Farm pea protein bars hit shelves in late 2013 and are available now at mainstream supermarkets and select natural food stores nationwide.