Spice World Inc., headquartered in Orlando, FL, is a completely vertically integrated company — “from our own seed program, production, harvesting and all other aspects — from A to Z — of getting our high-quality garlic and specialty products to distributors and supermarkets nationwide through direct sales,” said Louis Hymel, director of purchasing and marketing for the company.

Spice World has been producing and handling organic items for over a decade. Hymel said that with organic garlic, the company covers “it all” in terms of bulk, fresh, packaged, peeled, ready-to-use jars and its continually growing line of Squeeze Garlic — garlic in a bottle designed to be used like any other table condiment such as ketchup and mustard. Squeeze Garlic provides a gourmet garlic addition to dishes.

Hymel said the demand for types of organic garlic products seems to be for an even mix across the board of all of the company’s offerings.

Spice World’s Squeeze Garlic in a bottle is designed to be used like any other table condiment such as ketchup and mustard.“However, consumers really love the convenience of the ready-to-use jars and the Squeeze Garlic,” he said. “This item was originally introduced in our conventional line and was an instant success. Bringing it to consumers in an organic option was simply the next reasonable move for Spice World, and it too has been successful since it was first introduced.”

The majority of Spice World’s garlic is produced in California. At certain times of the year it also sources from Argentina, where it is produced in the foothills of the Andes. There a comparatively high-flavor garlic, such as that grown in California, is produced. Hymel said that the garlic market has been strong in the past year. The Argentina crop quality is very nice, which is helping to fill the demand.

Spice World has been in business for nearly 65 years. Over that period, it has developed total diversity in its sales and distribution for its products that now span every segment of retail, foodservice and industrial categories.

“And our distribution covers the entire country,” Hymel added. “We also export throughout North America and to other areas of the world.”

He noted that the company is seeing an uptick in sales of organics, especially in specific areas of the country.

“The overall food industry appears to be steady as people must eat,” he said. “Shoppers are, however, seeking out value for the money they spend. Because we cover the nation, we’re always focused on pocket markets where we can improve our position.”

As with any company the size and stature of Spice World, it continually updates facility equipment, increases efficiencies and its sustainability initiatives.

Hymel said he doesn’t feel that the locally grown trend is having an effect on the garlic market, especially as compared to commodity produce items.

“Growing good quality garlic is very difficult,” he pointed out. “And it doesn’t grow well in too many places.”