RUIZ FOODS INTRODUCES XXL TORNADOS
Product Launched During NACS, 2005

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DINUBA, CA (November, 2005):  Ruiz Foods, Inc. will launch the XXL Tornado under the signature El Monterey® brand – the number one selling brand of frozen Mexican food in the category – at the November 15-18 NACS Show to be held in Las Vegas, NV.  XXL Tornados are specifically developed to target the c-store consumer who is looking for a hot, but quick meal option.

Tornados are rolled tortillas, batter dipped and lightly fried for crispness.  They are then filled with robust and flavorful ingredients.  The XXL Tornado is 4.25 oz. each and 9” in length – 40% larger than the regular size El Monterey Tornado that is 3 oz. each and 6” in length.

The four XXL Tornados flavors available have been developed to meet the requests of consumers:

• Ranchero Steak and Cheese XXL Tornado
• Southwest Chicken and Cheese XXL Tornado
• Apple Cinnamon XXL Tornado

and the first, non-Mexican flavor:  the Cheese and Pepperoni XXL Tornado.

“Our decision to develop an XXL Tornado is based on a number of facts,” said Kim Ruiz Beck, Vice Chairman, Ruiz Foods.  “First, we recognize the continued momentum of the c-store ‘hot-to-go’ trend – consumers who don’t want to take the time to heat their selection.  Second, each XXL 4.25 oz. Tornado is a satisfying meal as compared to the original 3 oz. Tornado which satisfies the typical c-store consumer’s desire for a snack.”

Tornados were originally formulated to bring the authentic and robust flavors of Mexican food to the c-store consumer while utilizing the convenience of the roller grill.  Product is not only prepared on the roller grill but then held warm on the roller grill or in the hot case. The MSRP is $1.89 to $2.29.

Ruiz Foods is a privately owned corporation with corporate offices and the first manufacturing facility and distribution warehouse in Dinuba, CA.  A satellite manufacturing facility is located in Tulare, CA.  A third manufacturing facility and distribution warehouse is located in Denison, TX.

Ruiz Foods is dedicated to premium quality, authentically prepared frozen Mexican foods selling to all channels of distribution:  retail, convenience store, clubs, vending, industrial and foodservice.  The signature brand is El Monterey®. Ruiz is the market leader within the frozen Mexican food category and manufactures the #1 Brand of frozen Mexican food in the U.S.  ##