News Release - NR09-08 - July 14, 2009

Bring a SOQ logo and get a SOQ mini tote bag

For Immediate Release:  July 14, 2009
NR09-08

HONOLULU - The Hawai`i Department of Agriculture (HDOA) will launch the Seals of Quality (SOQ) Redemption Campaign this weekend at the Hawai`i State Farm Fair, July 18 and 19, on the grounds of the Bishop Museum.

Fairgoers may bring SOQ product stickers and imprinted logos and redeem them for a SOQ mini tote bag at the HDOA tent. SOQ products will also be on sale at the fair and the logo may also be redeemed. The redemption program will only run during the Farm Fair, so don’t miss this opportunity.

The SOQ is a branding program to promote genuine, Hawai`i-grown, Hawai`i-made, and premium fresh and processed agricultural products.  Since the program started with 12 companies in 2006, it has grown to 42 companies throughout the state.  The SOQ-qualified products include a wide range of agricultural products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, flowers, plants, coffee, macadamia nuts, honey, jelly, candies, ice cream, seasonings and noni.  For the full list of SOQ products, go to:  http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/add/soq

The SOQ logo, incorporated to the Hawai`i Tourism Authority’s recognizable Hawai`i logo, helps consumers to identify Hawai`i-grown and Hawai`i-made products.  The campaign is tied to the program’s tag line “Look for the Seals of Quality, Take home Hawai`i’s best.” 

For more information on the program, please contact Yukashi Smith at 973-9627 or yukashi.m.smith@hawaii.gov 

# # #