Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month celebrates and pays tribute to the contributions that generations of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans have made to American history, society, and culture. Beginning in 1977 as a weeklong celebration, it was permanently designated by Congress as a commemorative month in 1992. May was chosen to memorialize the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrant to the U.S. on May 7, 1843, and to honor the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, as most of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.
The Federal Asian Pacific American Council — a nonprofit that supports the interests of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in the federal and D.C. governments — selected the theme for 2024’s AANHPI Heritage Month, Advancing Leaders Through Innovation. The theme builds on the Advancing Leaders series, which began in 2021 and will run through 2024, and “pays homage to the visionaries and trailblazers who have shaped our AANHPI history and continue to influence our collective future. Innovation, resilience, and a pioneering spirit are cornerstones of American leadership.”
In addition to the countless ways that AANHPIs have enriched American lives through music, art, sports, literature, and technology, the influence on the American food landscape is undeniable. Drawing from rich cultural heritage and centuries-old techniques, they’ve helped form the foundation of many natural food products ranging from tofu and tempeh to gluten-free noodles and snacks. In addition to the rising popularity of ramen shops, hot pot restaurants, Chinese bakeries, and more, there is currently an explosion of brands introducing traditional Asian foods to the American food system in the form of CPGs, like Chinese dumplings, chili crunch, frozen plant-based sushi, kombucha, packaged phở, and more.
By supporting the diverse culinary traditions of AANHPI cultures, we can foster a greater understanding and appreciation of global foodways. This enriches our consumers’ experience while also promoting cultural exchange and understanding. We will be including AANHPI-owned brands in the Product Spotlights, Brand Feature, and May episode of The Buyer’s Desk Podcast. Keep an eye out for them in upcoming purchasing newsletters or check them out below!
Brand Features
Fly By Jing
Best known for their Sichuan Chili Crisp, Fly By Jing offers delicious, authentic Chinese flavors using clean, authentic ingredients, in fun, distinct packaging!
Founded in 2018, Chinese-born American restaurateur Jing Gao says, “our goal is to shift culture through taste and elevate the consciousness and conversation around Chinese food and other marginalized cuisines. We want to take Chinese food out of the so-called ethnic aisle and make it part of everyday cooking everywhere. Our continually expanding line of sauces, spices, oils, and dumplings is doing just that.”
In addition to Sichuan Chili Crisp, their incredible product line-up includes:
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Sweet & Spicy Zhong: a sweet, tangy, spicy and umami-rich sauce inspired by the classic Chengdu street snack Zhong Dumplings.
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Chengdu Crunch: a nut-free spicy, savory, umami, and magical extra crunchy chili condiment that packs a major punch.
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Mala Spice Mix: a potent mix of 11 herbs and spices that adds instant oomph to any dish.
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Sichuan Gold: a super spicy and tingly chili oil made for setting your tastebuds alight.
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Chili Crisp Vinaigrette: crafted with scientific precision to create a perfectly balanced gustatory experience for an instant hit of deep flavor.
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10 Year Aged Black Vinegar: a rich, deep tartness with a slightly sweet finish that adds balance and brightness to your home-cooking.
Product Spotlights
Bachan's BBQ Sauce - Sweet Honey Flavor
If you love the taste of Bachan’s Original or Miso sauces, but are looking for a sweeter, milder flavor, look no further than Bachan’s Sweet Honey Japanese Barbeque Sauce.
“The golden honey makes the savory, umami flavor hit harder. The soy, ginger, and green onion pop. It’s richer… warmer.”
Founder and CEO, Justin Gill, created this unique product from a recipe that has been passed down in his family for generations, using organic rice vinegar, garlic and ginger. Its applications are endless; I’ve personally used it to marinate meat and vegetables, as a dumpling dipping sauce, to zhuzh up many a mild meal, and more! Also, check out the May episode of The Buyer’s Desk podcast for an exclusive interview between Justin Gill and INFRA’s Chris Sorensen!
Twrl Milk Tea
Twrl Milk Tea combines single-origin teas from small family farms and eco-friendly pea protein milk for delicious, plant-based drinks. Co-founders Pauline Ang and Olivia Chen, inspired by their Chinese and Taiwanese roots, offer unique, allergy-friendly flavors in a smooth, nitro-infused milk tea, as well cafe-style boba topping. Perfect for boba enthusiasts seeking a sustainable choice!
Available in DC27 with more KeHE DCs onboarding!
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