As OrgraN celebrates its 40th anniversary, the pioneering business reflects on a journey marked by innovation, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to health and wellness.
As one of the first companies to innovate and produce gluten free products, the OrgraN brand has continued to be recognised by consumers across the world.
Since its inception, OrgraN has grown from a small retail store in Victoria, to a pioneering idea in the food industry, and finally, into a global leader in allergen-free food production with its products now reaching over 70 countries. This milestone is not just a celebration of years but a testament to OrgraN’s enduring impact on families and individuals around the world who rely on safe, nutritious, and delicious food options.
OrgraN was founded with a clear mission: to create food products that cater to the growing need for allergen-free options. In the early years, from 1985 to 1990, OrgraN’s rapid growth saw the company relocate five times in just five years as they revolutionised the market with their allergen free products. Each move represented a step closer to fulfilling its mission, driven by a passion to ensure that those with dietary restrictions could still enjoy delicious and wholesome meals.
Today, OrgraN’s product range includes over 100 products, from breakfast cereals to crispbreads, pasta, and flour.
Roma Food Products Managing Director Max Buontempo says OrgraN offers safe and healthy solutions for every meal.
“OrgraN is one of the only brands that offers a full range of foods free from known allergens. With one in 10 children developing a food allergy before their first birthday, OrgraN plays a critical role in ensuring that these children and their families to have access to a diverse range of foods that meet their specific needs without compromising on taste or nutrition.
OrgraN’s success is intertwined with the broader mission of Roma Food Products, the company behind the brand. For over 71 years, Roma has been dedicated to creating great food for healthier living.
“This mission is more than just a statement; it’s a guiding principle that influences every aspect of the company’s operations,” Mr Buontempo said. “Roma’s values-led approach is evident in its commitment to its people, the health and wellness of the community, and a deep pride in its heritage, which spans more than seven decades.”
When asked what the future for OrgraN looks like, Mr Buontempo said: “The brand plan is to continue to innovate, introducing new product lines that cater to the ever-evolving needs of its consumers. Whether it’s expanding into new markets or developing brand new products that anticipate the latest trends in health and wellness, OrgraN remains at the forefront of the industry.
“This forward-thinking approach ensures that the brand will continue to be a trusted name in allergen-free foods for many years to come. As we celebrate OrgraN’s 40th anniversary, we honour the brand’s rich history and the countless lives it has touched. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global leader, OrgraN has always stayed true to its mission of making healthy, allergen-free foods accessible to all.”
Recently, Roma Foods showcased the OrgraN products at Fine Food Australia at Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre on 2-5 September 2024.
“Now also celebrating its 40th year, Fine Food Australia is the leading trade event for the Australian food industry. With buyers from 11 countries joining more than 100 of Austrade’s food and beverage exporter clients at the event. Representatives from Global Victoria, Investment NSW, Food South Australia and Trade Tasmania were also present to support exporters from their states.”
Mr Buontempo was honoured to have a visit to the stand from Austrade’s acting General Manager for South Asia, Monica Kennedy, who stopped by the event to share insights on exporting to the region.