Many Thanks

I would like to send a HUGE THANK YOU to all my current supporters.

As some of you may know, recently there was an issue with some cookies that I had sent out. I had pretty well determined, after a LOT of research and a melt-down ( or two )...that the cause had to be exposure to some extreme temperatures in shipping or handling and the sad end result was that some of the cookies were developing mold....and developing it rapidly...some were even arriving at their destinations with MOLD.

Needless to say, this was an appalling situation....each past customer ( and friends ) were contacted and asked if they had ever ....EVER...had a problem with any cookies that I had shipped them. I even contacted people who had purchased or received cookies as a gift several months ago.

Because, for me at least, the issue was not a "business thing"....but a FRIEND thing, each of the tainted orders were replaced ( still have one more to replace )....with complete new packages of treats....even if only a small portion of the original shipment was not to standards. I would much rather take the "bite" in profits than disappoint a friend or supporter/customer.

Because the replacement orders were given top Priority, some current shipments have been delayed but I hope to have all current orders in the mail by this weekend ( March 3, 2007 ).

I have also taken extra (permanent ) precautions to reasonably ensure that this issue NEVER arises again:

I recently purchased a Tilia Vacuum sealer and am now vacuum packing all packages of cookies. They will still be placed in a labeled Ziploc bag but essentially each package of cookies is now double bagged.....finally got the hang of cutting the vacuum bags down to ensure a good seal and still allow me to offer the product with a neatly placed and readable label as per regulations.

Each label has been re-formatted with a very clear recommendation to either Refrigerate or Freeze the cookies and also includes a "Use By" date; while I do not and never have refrigerated the treats that I keep out of each batch for my resident dogs ( and Official Taste testers )....and have NEVER encountered mold development in those treats and have often had treats kept out for several weeks ...I still firmly recommend that added storage instruction for your dogs' health and safety.

While I had shipped treats previously to all parts of the country....in the cold of winter and the wicked Midwest heat and had never before encountered problems....each shipment box is now clearly marked as "PERISHABLE" and when possible, bags of treats will be further wrapped in newspaper or other insulating materials as available.

I believe, as a manufacturer of these very tasty, all Natural treats, it is my duty not only as the seller but as a friend, to keep everyone apprised of any issues past, present and future which might affect M and Zee's Gourmet Treats and invite any questions or comments.

Once again....HUGE THANKS to all ...especially those who gave me the opportunity to "cry on your shoulder"....including Mollie and Zander's vet.....and to all of you for your patience and support during this very difficult time for M and Zee's....