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AN ice-cream firm has produced its first organic product in reponse to customer demand.

R&R Ice Cream, of Leeming Bar, has developed the icecream, containing fruit, for the Rachels Organics company.

Sarah Goodhew, group new product development manager, said it was an example of two of the biggest growth areas in the ice-cream industry, healthy options and premium products targeted primarily at the adult market.

Ms Goodhew said: "I think, definitely, adults are looking for indulgent treats for themselves."

The company had to obtain Soil Association accreditation before manufacturing the product.

Ms Goodhew said: "The accreditation process is very rigorous in ensuring there is full organic detectability through the system from the manufacturers of the milk and cream to the growers of the fruit.

"We are sourcing from all over the country because of the availability of organic ingredients."

R&R has also developed a Neopolitan ice-cream, using fromage frais, for Tesco, and sorbet-type "push-up" products containing 50pc fruit juice for Sainsburys.

The ice-cream, and a chocolate milk shake-style frozen push-up, are both low calorie, but contain as much calcium as 100ml of whole milk.

The company's low calorie Skinny Cow brand, launched in 2004, has become a market leader.

The Leeming Bar factory employs 215 workers and 75 sales, marketing, accounts, and administrative staff.

The company was started as Richmond Ice Cream, in 1985, with five staff, by Bedale farmer Jonathan Ropner.

In 1998, the firm merged with the Leeds-based ice lolly manufacturer Treats plc, changing its name to Richmond Foods plc.

In 2001, it bought Nestle Ice Cream's UK business in a deal worth £10m.

In 2006, Oaktree Capital Management bought the company in a deal worth about £180m and combined it with German ice cream manufacturer Roncadin GmbH to form R&R Ice Cream.

12:44pm Friday 2nd May 2008

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