arico's creator

Humble Beginnings

Born on the Java island of Indonesia, Arico CEO Angela Ichwan was raised by parents who instilled in her the principles of fairness, integrity, frugality and industry. Growing up in a third world country, she learned about education as a path toward a better life.

America

She learned about America - a place where people work to make dreams come true irrespective of race, gender, age, or ethnicity; a land where freedom is not only treasured, but is a God-given right for those willing to work hard. Blessed by parents with a vision of a better future for their daughter, Angela, at age eighteen, parted from family and her familiar world, and set sail to the US to pursue higher education. At this young age, Angela took command of her destiny. With limited funds from family and thanks to academic scholarships, Angela completed undergraduate and graduate degrees in Food Science from UC Davis and Cornell University. While working full-time at Kellogg, she further obtained an MBA degree at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, commuting 160 miles every day between home, work and classes.

The American Dream

Now Angela is utilizing her eight years experience as Global Food Developer at Heinz and Kellogg and her service as Chief Operating Officer at Market Matters, Inc., a non-profit organization that supports small businesses in emerging countries, to bring Arico Natural Foods to life.

Simple Idea

Arico's inspiration comes from Angela's young niece, Ella, who lives gluten free/casein free. Gluten free foods are scarce, and the tastes of available gluten free and casein free products in the market leave much to be desired. Arico is dedicated to Ella and our friends with gluten and casein sensitivity.

Simple Wish

Make great tasting and healthy snacks - because little luxuries bring joy to our lives. Start with gluten free and casein free snacks. Listen to people. Fulfill their needs. Delight palatial senses. Nourish the body. Have fun. Meet people. Make a difference.

"To our parents, you opened the door to this world of opportunity. We thank you. To our brothers and sisters, look back. See how far we have come. To our nieces and nephews, stay well, stay together. To our future children, you follow where we lead, but we wait for the day when you will walk in front, showing us new things about the world." - G.A.