VACAVILLE -- RF Biocidics, maker of chemical-free food safety systems, said Craig Powell is the new chief executive officer.
[caption id="attachment_70667" align="alignright" width="225"] Craig Powell[/caption]
"We are thrilled to have Craig leading the next stage of RF Biocidics’ growth," said Chris Silva, CEO of Allied Minds, the Boston-based private-investment company that owns RF Biocidics (707-451-2027, www.rfbiocidics.com). "His impressive background in marketing and business operations, combined with his deep knowledge of various food products, makes him an exceptional addition to the company."
Mr. Powell has more than 20 years of food industry experience in management and operations, most recently as vice president of sales and marketing for Davis-based Superior Farms. Previously, he was general manager for Pacific Coast Producers, director of operations for The Produce Exchange, and director of operations for Musco Olive Products.
He started his career in the food industry at Nestle and ConAgra Foods. He has a bachelor of science degree in food science and engineering from the University of California at Davis and an MBA in finance and accounting from the same institution.
RF Biocidics manufactures treatment equipment and systems that uses special frequencies of radio waves to kill pathogens, pests and fungi without changing neither nutrient content nor scent or food qualities such as flavor, color and texture. The system is designed to meet exceed government food-safety standards while treating food while in bulk containers and consumer packaging. Licensed from UC Davis, the technology was adapted from technology long used in the lumber industry to dry wood and by utilities to treat wastewater.
"Given the enormous potential for growth, I am very excited to join RF Biocidics," said Craig Powell. "The company’s technology is unlike anything that currently exists in the food industry, and the opportunity to lead RF Biocidics as its CEO is a tremendous honor."
The company treats more than 12 million pounds of tree nuts, seeds, spices, dried fruits and herbs, and animal and pet food in its California facilities. In 2011, RF Biocidics received a $10 million round of funding led by Allied Minds.
