Camellia Brand Beans has gained more than 6,000 new points of distribution through Southeastern Grocers’ Winn-Dixie and Harveys banners stores in Florida and Alabama. Fourteen different UPCs include Camellia’s Red Beans, Black-Eyed Peas, Great Northerns, Large Limas, Pinto Beans, Black Beans, Green Split Peas and Lentils. Camellia Soup and Dinner Mixes also are available in several varieties: Louisiana Bean Soup, Red Bean Gumbo, Chipotle Black Bean Soup, Creole Red Beans, Tomato & Herb White Bean Soup and Spicy Lentil Soup.
Camellia’s Red Beans are the No. 1-selling red kidney bean in U.S., according to AC Nielsen AXOC 52-weeks ended Jan. 14.
“Consumers are responding to our authentic heritage brand, and we’re excited to be part of their meals,” said owner Vince Hayward. “For generations, Camellia has been part of New Orleans culinary traditions, particularly through the city’s favorite Red Beans and Rice dish.”
Hayward credits that popularity for solidifying national demand for Camellia Beans.
“We’ve found that visitors and former residents want to experience the delicious iconic dish wherever they are. Their satisfaction with Camellia Red Beans inspires them to reach for our other offerings,” he said.
While the company says it has fans around the nation and ships internationally, this is the first time Camellia has been widely distributed beyond its traditional Louisiana, Texas and Gulf Coast stronghold. Camellia says its dried beans, peas and lentils are versatile and appeal to both home cooks and chefs; they’re loaded with protein, fiber, nutrients, are economical and are ideal as a main course—with or without meat.
Consumers also are purchasing Camellia’s newer line of soup and dinner mixes that offer the same health benefits of the company’s dried products, with bold and flavorful seasonings conveniently included, according to the company.