Pak Group achieves CSA approval

Aug. 23, 2013, Glendale, CA  – Pak Group has announced that it received the Celiac Sprue Association (CSA) Recognition Seal for the highest standards in producing products free of gluten.

Pak Group’s Bellarise yeast product has met CSA’s standard for having less than 5ppm (parts per million). Bellarise is an instant dry yeast for making baked products.

“We are pleased to have this recognition from CSA and be the first and only yeast manufacturer to receive such a high standard of certification,” said Walter Postelwait, president of Pak Group, in a press release. While the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) and European Union’s standard for “gluten free” is less than 20 ppm (parts per million), the Whole Foods Standard and CSA Recognition Seal recognizes a stricter standard of less than 5ppm.

The CSA Recognition Seal Program was designed exclusively for producers in the United States that adhere to the strictest quality criteria for the absence of gluten in ingredients, processing and packaging.

Pak Group also has a new addition to its team, Alex Peña who will serve as the new Director of Product Development.

“Alex Peña brings more than 15 years of industry experience and knowledge to Pak Group. His hands-on experience from Master Baker to Technologist II in R&D will be instrumental in strengthening our technical services,” said Postelwait, in a media statement.

Peña’s career began as a Head Baker, Pastry Chef, and Chef de Cuisine which then lead to his recent position in the Research & Development department at a bakery manufacturing company. Peña attended the Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena, Calif. and the American Institute of Baking in Manhattan, Kans.

Peña’s affiliations include the American Association of R& D Chefs, Retail Baker’s of America Association, and the American Pasty Chef Federation.

As Director of Product Development for Pak Group, Peña will be responsible for initiating, planning and executing baking formulations, process development, and technical services for Pak Group’s products as well as for the Bellarise brand. For more information about Pak Group, visit: www.pakgroupna.com.