Cut-herbs specialist R&G Fresh Herbs is launching Nature’s Flavours – the first range of branded, modified atmosphere packaged (MAP) cut herbs on 19 November.

Nature’s Flavours herbs are packed in micro-perforated bags to ensure an optimal balance of gases and create the ideal storage atmosphere, prolonging both taste and appearance, even at ambient temperature. MAP works by slowing down the herbs’ metabolism, to help them stay fresher for longer, in the most natural way possible.

Dean Fowler, R&G’s commercial manager, said: “R&G is leveraging over 50 years experience to introduce a new brand, the first of its kind in fresh herbs, that stands for premium, consistent quality and delivers a superior taste, packed full of flavour and vitality.”

“We’re the only fresh herb supplier to use MAP consistently in our bagged products and we only source herbs from mature plants, to ensure the fullest flavour.”

The Nature’s Flavours range consists of more than 20 lines including basil, coriander and mint, as well as less mainstream varieties such as rocolla, marjoram and lovage. The range is available in 50g and 100g bags and is launching nationwide to foodservice and wholesale customers.

R&G has also launched a range of exotic micro-herbs under the Nature’s Flavours brand via Ocado. The range, all packed in 8g punnets and priced at £1.39 each, consists of Micro Salad Mix, Micro Red Vein Sorrel, Micro Green Basil, Micro Coriander and Micro Oriental Mix. Customer demand has been buoyant and orders are already 80 per cent above forecast.

Fowler said: “It’s about time the fresh herbs sector had a benchmark brand and we’re proud and excited to offer a product range that fulfils all the brand values that we, as veterans of the fresh produce industry, believe in.”