Romeo Mitchell keeps it natural with Paradise Blends

Glenmuir High School past student Romeo Mitchell never for one moment thought he would establish a business in the food industry, but he now has big dreams of taking his interest globally.

Mitchell smiled as he reflected on his days in high school. "I didn't want anything to do with the home economics department," he shared with The Gleaner as he discussed the road which has now taken him on this path.

"The MSG (monosodium glutamate) in seasonings affected my parents' ulcer stomach and when they bought scallion, some of it would spoil before they could use it," he explained. In an attempt to preserve the scallion, Mitchell blended it and that led him to start blending other seasonings and giving his parents all-natural products to use.

Last year, he met Kamala Bernard from the Rural Agricultural Development Authority in May Pen, who told him she would assist him in formulating his products.

That was the turning point for Mitchell, who now has plans of making a business out of what started out as his effort to improve his parents' health.

Fast-forward to 2018 and that passion has seen him being awarded Most Outstanding in Entrepreneurship, as well as being the recipient of the Mayor's Award for Leadership at the recent Youth in Business grant presentation ceremony, held on the grounds of the municipal corporation in May Pen.

Mitchell, who produces natural herb spices and seasoning, said he is targeting those who want to eat healthily and are practising healthy lifestyles. His other products include turmeric and rosemary powders, as well as naturally grounded all-purpose season.

The young entrepeneur said he is now ready for his brand to be known and looks forward to them having an impact on consumers.

"I most definitely would love to see some of my products in major supermarkets," he said.

He is also looking forward to the upcoming Denbigh Agricultural Show, which unfolds from August 4-6, where he will be showcasing his products to the world.