Monterey Gourmet Foods announces Tammy G. Katz has been named an independent director of its board effective Jan.1, 2009. Salinas, Calif.-based Monterey said Katz will serve on the Compensation and Nominating Committees and replaces Jim Wong who retired effective Dec. 31, 2008. Katz is CEO and founder of Katz Marketing Solutions, a marketing and brand management consulting firm specializing in food and consumer products, in Columbus, Ohio.

The board membership remains at nine members.

Monterey Gourmet Foods distributes Monterey Pasta, CIBO Naturals, Emerald Valley Kitchen, Sonoma Foods and Casual Gourmet in more than 11,000 retail and club stores throughout the U.S.