In 1994, Brazilian-born Hans Friese, together with his wife, Joan, founded Ciranda on the belief that organic is better — better for the planet, and better for the people. They started with a simple desire to create a meaningful company, to be present on the journey, and to hopefully earn a living along the way. In the beginning, a federally mandated organic program did not exist in the United States. The couple navigated through a complex web of organic certifications and began exporting ingredients from North American farmers to more developed organic markets around the world. As the U.S. organic market began to mature, they saw an opportunity to support organic market growth in North America, and at the same time support the development of global communities they had become so connected with. In 2000, Ciranda transformed from an export model, to primarily an import model as it operates today, offering a core portfolio of ingredients derived from coconut, palm fruit, cacao and tapioca. Throughout its history, Ciranda has focused on innovation through the growth and commercialization of organic ingredients. We introduced North America to organic tapioca starch in 1998, and organic tapioca syrup in 2001. In 2002, we partnered with a Brazilian palm oil producer to offer sustainable organic palm oils. Organic and fair trade cocoa, chocolates and coconut joined our portfolio in the years following. The Ciranda symbolizes our goal to work united together for the benefit of all. More recently in 2018, we expanded commercial availability of organic cassava flour and organic rice syrup, both with social programs designed to positively impact the livelihood of farmers at the beginning of the ingredient's lifecycle. Our name says it all. Drawn from Brazilian culture, a circle of people dance the Ciranda folk dance and all are invited to participate. The Ciranda symbolizes our goal to work united together for the benefit of all.