A Q&A with Orangeline Farms Mascot #bigZing
LEAMINGTON, ON – When considering the inner workings of a boutique specialty grower there are many methods and facets which culminate into the high-quality offerings with which we become familiar. However, I decided to try a new tactic to connect even deeper with Orangline Farms™ and its Zing! Healthy Foods™ brand. I recently stole a moment out of the #bigZing, the Zing! mascot’s, busy schedule to talk industry shop and quirky preferences.
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In addition to being the self-proclaimed face and personality of the Zing! Healthy Foods™ operations, #bigZing is a well-documented traveler whose already put a good span of North America under his veggie belt, from Toronto to Chicago. Check out the hashtag #bigZing for a glimpse of his impact.
So what else does this giant pepper have to say? Find out below as we discuss a range of topics, some of which may surprise you:
Q: What do you think about the current state of the industry?
#bZ: I think now more than ever we are seeing a movement towards healthier eating, it’s not just a trend. Consumers are more informed and as a grower, being transparent about our farming techniques is the way to go. I’m really inspired by the Urban Greenhouses that are popping up inside the education system. It’s beneficial and amaZing!
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Q: Who do you think the big influencers of today are, Pumpkin and Kale perhaps?
#bZ: Hahahaha, yes they are… I often get mistaken for a giant pumpkin, we’re both orange so I can see how that could happen. These talked about veggies may seem to have a corner on the trend market, but word has it that Runner Beans are seeing resurgence. Okay, that may just be a rumor I’m starting but trends aren’t just dependent on taste, but accessibility and versatility as well.
Q: If you weren’t a vegetable, what would you be?
#bZ: A bicycle, that way I could just ride. Bicycles are used at our farm and they look fun. I would of course attach a hockey card to the back spokes… I am Canadian, after all.
Q: What do you think about organic?
#bZ: Sometimes it feels like it might be easier to discuss politics (#bigZing chuckles). Organics or not, if at the end of the day people are eating more veg, than we are all winning.
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Q: What else do you think our readers are dying to know?
#bZ: Well there was that incident in Chicago… but aside from that, I guess it would be my physical attributes. Some have often wondered if I’m really just a giant balloon. I can assure you that I’m real, approximately 35 pounds, and around 3’ x 4’ tall. Getting around indoors is limited, as I do not fit through standard doors, so I tend to be an outside type person. But on the inside… I’m made of sunshine and happiness…of course.
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From the mouth of the pepper himself, there you have it. As Zing! Healthy Foods™ continues to push creative and healthy options into the baskets and hearts of consumers, keep an eye on their strawberry, sweet & spicy peppers, and Runner Bean offerings and marketing campaigns for further innovations.
Where will #bigZing lead Zing! Healthy Foods™ next? Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow to find out.

