Banana Crisps & Banana Chips

Its' been while that we have not posted here in our Food Blog---busy busy busy!
After 6 weeks overseas attending the International Food Exhibition (IFEX) 2011, we had to catch up with our backlogs---reports, sorting out the products that we have chosen, and so on and so forth---

Well, one of the products that we have decided to bring in to the US and Middle East is the Banana Crisps and Banana Chips---
Take a look at the photos and we'll keep you posted.

BANANA CRISPS
Photo courtesy of APromos

Migrant workers in Qatar go without pay - 10 Apr 09

Souq Waqif (Old Souq), Doha, Qatar

Qatar Financial Center

Qatar Financial Centre commercial 2009-2011

TVC of Qatar- Tourism Promotion Video

DOHA, QATAR-Top 10 Vacation Destinations for 2011

Each year, Frommer's editors, authors, and experts from around the world sit down to talk about the best cities, islands, beaches, and other vacation destinations for the coming year. We aim for a list that steers clear of too-hot spots or places that are so under the radar you'll find yourself lost.

To tell you about our choices, we turned to our experts in the field: authors and editors who live in the destinations or who travel there on the regular. We think the best people to share about a city or a region are those who can't stay away from them for too long.

Doha, Qatar

Doha doesn't attract the hoards of beer-swilling British tourists or the sheer number of hotels that the U.A.E.'s Dubai does, but its beaches are more beautiful and its gourmet restaurants are less crowded. The Al Jazeera news network is what put Doha on the map a decade ago, although a different sort of camera -- the movie kind -- is what's drawing tourists for the Doha-Tribeca Film Festival. Next year marks its third installment. Doha is concentrating on beefing up its presence on the international stage by following up its world-class, I.M. Pei-designed Museum of Islamic Art with a bid for the Olympics in 2016 and the Fifa World Cup in 2022. Plus, the city is hosting professional soccer's Asian Cup in January.

QATAR-www.explore-qatar.com part 01

QATAR-www.explore-qatar.com part 02

The Pearl, Qatar

Qatar-Local Customs & Culture

In general, the Qatari Inhabitants are of Arabic origin and the culture is very much based on Islamic tradition. Islam is the dominant influence on day-to-day life. This rich cultural tradition is present in what they wear, eat and drink. Qataris are known for their generosity and friendliness, thus making Qatar a very welcoming country.
Traditional dress is evident throughout Qatar with the men wearing a long flowing white garment called the dishdha or thobe with a headdress called the gutra. Women in public where the black Abaya, a long loose black robe which covers the clothes worn underneath. Some women wear a thin black veil over the face, while some a burka, which sometimes can cover the cheek, bones and leave only the eyes open.
Pork is outlawed in Qatar and cannot be found anywhere- it is also illegal to bring it into the country. Muslims are forbidden to eat any meat that is not slaughtered in accordance to the Islamic code; this is referred to as halaal. Consumption of alcohol is frowned upon by Qataris.

(reference: www.qatarliving.com)

Spotlight on Doha

Ettiquettes to follow in doing business with the Arabs-Middle Eastern

Etiquettes mean socially correct behavior, manners and politeness. Etiquette is other aspect of decorum. Etiquette governs the expectations of social behavior according to the norms within a society, social class, or group. Etiquette fundamentally prescribes and restricts the ways in which people interact with each other, and show their respect for other people by conforming to the norms of society.

Etiquette depends on culture what is excellent etiquette in one society may shock in another. Etiquette evolves within culture.

Etiquette requires every where. Etiquette would not seem to play an important part in business, and yet no man can ever tell when its knowledge may be of advantage, or its lack may turn the scale against him.

Some useful facts about Arabia

• In Arabia, most people are Muslims. Muslims is also spelt as Moslem. Their religion, Islam, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad between 610 and 632 A.D.
• The holy book of Muslims is called the Quran. Quran is the foundation and primary source of doctrine in Islam. Fundamental to the believer is the fact that the Quran is the infallible word of God. It contains among other things a comprehensive code of conduct transforming human experience and knowledge into an order reflecting all aspects of life.
• The public place of worship is the Mosque which is attended mainly by men. Women either pray at home or use the special place allotted in most large Mosques. The call to prayer is chanted by the Muezzin from the Minaret.
• On entering the Mosque and before praying the Muslim removes his shoes and washes his hands, face and feet. Prayer is led by the Imam.
• Friday is the holy day of week, although a Muslim must pray five times every day at : Dawn, Noon, Afternoon, Sunset and Evening .  Daily prayers do not have to be said in a Mosque. Muslims may pray wherever they happen to be at the time of prayer. This may be in an office or beside a road; don't be surprised, therefore, when you first see it. Arabia it is a common everyday sight.

• A Muslim always faces in the direction of the holy city of Makkah, when he prays.
• Arabic is the language of the Holy Quran. The script, written from right to left, has an alphabet of consonants. It is by no means easy to learn although the rudiments of the spoken language can be quickly mastered if you get down to it.
• The pleasantries are included in subsequent chapters and if the foreigner takes the trouble to learn them he can be sure of an enthusiastic reception. In the author's experience, one is always given greater credit than is justified by one's efforts.
• Women in many Arab countries wear a black cloak and may also be veiled ( in purdah ). In other Arab countries however, women dress in the European fashion. In any case, women are viewed in a special way in Arabia. One might for example, enquire after the health of the family of an Arab but not specifically of his wife.
• The thing most likely to impress you about the Arab is his hospitality but his whole way of life, stemming as it does from his ancient heritage as well as from his environment may well catch your imagination.

A Muslim is someone who has accepted Islam and lives his whole life according to the teachings of Islam. A true Muslim is one who is loving and caring, promotes peace, and is fully obedient and submissive to the will of God.

Islam demands from its believers that they establish peace in the world, promote love and make such examples of themselves that others, knowing that they are Muslims, feel at peace and harmony in that knowledge. This is the true Islam and what it means to be a Muslim.

(Reference: Dubai City online) 

Halal-Certified Products - for Middle East countries

Consuming Halal-certified products is essential to the practice of the Islamic faith.
It is important for Middle East countries to ensure that the meat and poultry they consume are genuinely Halal-certified to adhere to the lawful food prescribed for Muslim countries.
With this in mind, more and more food manufacturers acknowledge the importance and the salability of Halal-certified products.

To date, the total value of the global Halal food market is worth about US$ 632 billion based on industry reports.
Since our main source is from the Philippines, we coordinate with various government agencies in doing business with Philippine companies that are Halal-certified.
“Looking at the results of the two business missions organized by the Philippine  Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) last year, we can say that Halal-certified products  have huge potential in the world Halal market,” shared Sue Guru, Focal Halal Person of DTI.

CITEM will also promote Halal products in a special pavilion in the country’s trade show for food, the International Food Exhibition Philippines (IFEX). IFEX Philippines is the country’s premier trade event for quality and delectable food ideas scheduled on 6-8 May at the World Trade Center Metro Manila, Pasay City.
Moreover, the 3-day event will feature the Halal Pavilion, a creative display of Halal certified products from the Philippines that cover a wide range of food categories.
(notes from IFEX)

International Food Exhibition-Manila, Philippines - May 12-14, 2011

We are very excited to be part of the VIBuyer Program attending this International Food Exhibition.
IFEX Philippines provides gainful business opportunities for importers, exporters, retailers, wholesalers, and manufacturers eyeing both the local and international markets. Evolving and expanding, this event features shows within a show that highlight fresh ideas, valuable industry information, and exciting competitions and activities.

Fair Title:	8th INTERNATIONAL FOOD EXHIBITION (IFEX) PHILIPPINES 2011
Fair Date:	12-14 May 2011 ( Thursday– Saturday)
Venue:	Halls 1-4 SMX Convention Center, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines
Organizer:	CENTER FOR INTERNATIONAL TRADE EXPOSITIONS AND MISSIONS (CITEM) Attached agency of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI, Philippines)
Co-Organizer:	Agribusiness Marketing Assistance Service - Department of Agriculture (DA-AMAS)
Show hours:	10 A.M. to 7 P.M. , Thursday-Saturday
Fair Admission:	Exporters & Mindanao Halls : 1st & 2nd Day – Trade visitors only 3rd Day – Open to the Public International Hall : 1st to 3rd Day - Open to Trade Visitors and Public Retailers Hall : 1st to 3rd Day - Open to Trade Visitors and Public

 Products and Services Coverage of IFEX Philippines

• Tropical Beverages, Wines & Spirits
• Coffee, Tea & Cocoa
• Natural, Herbal and Organic Products
• Sugar & Sweeteners
• Natural, Organic & Herbal Products
• Fine Food & Specialties
• Meat & Poultry
• Fresh & Processed Tropical Fruits & Vegetables
• Fresh , Frozen, & Value-Added Marine Products
• Flours, Starch, & Cereal
• Culinary Schools

• Seasonings, Oils, Flavors, Additives, Colors & Gelatins
• Testing Laboratories
• Food Machineries & Equipment, Kitchen Equipment & Machinery
• Postharvest Technology & Equipment
• Packaging Materials (Glass, Papers, Metal, Plastic)
• Allied Products and Services
• Shipping & Forwading
• Storage
• Food Franchising

MANUEL ALA-Director, Sales & Business Development for State of Qatar

Manuel Ala

Director, Sales & Business Development

State of Qatar

Manuel Ala joined The Nature’s Market in December 2010, and contributes over 12 years of international trading and marketing devoted to Middle Eastern countries such as Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and State of Qatar.

He is a specialist in the areas of international trading & distribution of agricultural products from all over the world to Qatar.  He also brings his extensive management & financial skills from his work experience in the banking industry.

Manuel oversees The Nature’s Market Sales, Marketing and Merchandising department and is responsible for developing the company products recognition in Qatar.  Manuel holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration major in Marketing & Management.

Manuel is also an active leader in various social organizations.  He has been the President of PIBQ (Pag-Iribang Bicolnon Qatar) a non-profit organization that helps and support various projects in the Philippines for the sake of alleviating poverty.

An avid fan of sports, he is also active in basketball tournaments in Qatar.

Doha, Qatar- Dried Nuts & Grains, Dried Fruits, Spices and Herbs

Although we have Mr. Manuel Ala to head our sales team there, I have to learn the culture, food, business practices to be able to do business in Qatar.
In my research about Dried Nuts & Grains, Dried Fruits, Spices and Herbs available in Qatar, I ran across this photos by AdeyH of Doha, Qatar.

It is very interesting to know that these products are the main ingredient to satisfy the palate of  not only the Qataris but also those migrants who are currently residing and working there.
The vast population of Asians and Middle Eastern people makes Qatar also a melting pot for various activities and food.

Dried Gabi Leaves (Dried Taro Leaves)

Taro leaves (Gabi leaves) - one of our products for export to the US, Canada & Qatar.
It is understandable for you to know that there is a vast population of Asians in the US so it is normal to have our dried gabi leaves (taro leaves) in our product line.

However, you would probably wonder why Qatar?  Well, I have not been there (but hopefully someday I will be able to see and experience the beauty of this country) but one of our partners have lived and worked there for 11 years.  He had told me about how significant the Filipino population is in Qatar and still growing tremendously due to its more stable economy than other countries.  There are a lot of various organizations for Filipinos and its regions.  Filipinos love to gather together and have their native food.  I tell you, it is always a feast of various dishes from meat to vegetables and desserts.

If you look at some photos of Qatar or go to www.qatarliving.com, you would find that most of the contract workers are of Asian heritage.  This is the best market for Asian food & flavors being a country that abundance of seafood & meat products.

Let me show you one of the main dishes that use this dried or even fresh taro leaves (gabi leaves)
LAING

LAING

I was born and raised in Albay, a town in Bicol Region where we basically have this filipino dish at least 2 or 3 times a week.  Since we have the plant growing abundantly  in our backyard, we usually cook the leaves fresh.  One good thing about our gabi plant (taro) is that it is so tender and does not have the itchy feeling when you eat them.  There are so many varieties of this gabi (taro) leaves some of which are tough and not really good.  Another technique that I had seen my grandma shredding the leaves is not to include the hard part or veins like on the leaves to make it tender when cooked.

It is cooked with ginger, garlic, sometimes meat, shrimp or dried fish and coconut milk.  Sometimes the stalks are included too, by peeling and slicing them but since we have the abundance of the plant, our grandma uses only the leaves itself.  One distinguishing factor of our laing from our region is cooking it with our local hot chili pepper called "siling labuyo" or sambalas (we also sell the dried sambalas or siling labuyo)

Bicolanos are well known for this hot and spicy dish.  You can smell the aroma of the spices--the pepper, garlic, ginger and seasoned with fish sauce.

Later in this food blog, I will be posting the recipe for this Laing.

Until next time, I can just imagine myself now eating this laing with our jasmin steamed rice--yummy!

So stay tuned when we will post our local retailers for this dried taro leaves.
Photos courtesy of Bikolandia! and 80 Breakfasts

Welcome to our Blog for "The Nature's Market"

Welcome to our Blog!

You would probably wonder why our company is named "The Nature's Market"

To give you a brief introduction, our company had been in the crafts business in the US, Canada & UK and the Philippines (as our artisan's production facility) in the late 90's.
The business was focused on crafts until 2010 that we have made final decisions to include various natural food & flavors from around the world. 
Being Asian by heritage, I grew up with our family and friends enjoying a simple lunch or dinner consisting of fish, meat, soups, desserts and not to forget those tropical fruits.

Then late 2010, fate brought  me to an old college friend.
Its been almost 30 years that had passed that we have not seen each other nor had any communications.
We had lived different lives, have our own families and lived worlds apart.
As old friends, we talked about how life was so simple back then, what transpired in between the years, career, family life and so on.
Both of us came from humble beginnings and have the passion of helping and encouraging others to fulfill their dreams into a reality.

Then, we discussed business and how to survive in this struggling economy.
Being in business for so many years, I didn't realized the potential of doing business outside my comfort zone.  Fast forward--We worked together for our common common goal--"Working towards becoming more compassionate to those fortunate than us"  thus "The Nature's Market" -- Being financially solid means capable of sharing more--

Then for me, it is the love for getting together with family & good friends over a simple dish.  I love to cook, to blog about my passion for cooking, my new recipes, travel, my hopes & dreams and much more.

Our company will be importing and exporting to the US, Canada, UK & Qatar various flavors, spices and food from the Philippines and hopefully to expand to include products from other Asian & tropical countries. 
We will be featuring various food items, recipes, our food experiences, travel and photos of places that we love and visit in relation to this business.

Later on, we will be posting more about ourselves, our work experiences, our passion and hobbies and more.
So, please stay tuned!