Earthbound Farm, San Juan Bautista, Calif., said it established a new product innovation team to develop new product lines, "capitalizing on Earthbound Farm's position as the leading producer of organic produce while also venturing outside of the produce aisle." All the positions are newly created, officials said.

As director of product innovation, new hireTracy Miedemawill lead the product development strategy, officials said. Miedema previously led both marketing and product development at Stahlbush Island Farms since 2005. Prior to that, she worked at Small Planet Foods/General Mills.

Earthbound Farm said its new director of farm supply,Alec McErlich, has more than 30 years experience in research and development in organic vegetables, fruits, grains and alfalfa crops. As the organic agriculture research & development manager at Small Planet Foods/General Mills, he spearheaded the organic R&D Program in 1995.

Earthbound Farm saidPeter LeComptehas assumed the role of director of global sourcing. He comes to Earthbound Farm from General Mills, where he served as the sourcing manager for organics since 2000. Prior to that, he was with Small Planet Foods/Cascadian Farm for six years.

"I am excited to add these three talented professionals to the Earthbound Farm team," said Earthbound Farm President & CEO Charles Sweat. "We've added some formidable strength to our staff and I expect we'll see some impressive accomplishments as we focus on making greater progress in pursuing our mission to bring the benefits of organic food to as many people as possible."