GROWING HEALTHY SAYS IT REMAINS HEALTHY

LISA SAXTON

MINNEAPOLIS -- Despite rumors to the contrary, Growing Healthy here has not filed for bankruptcy and is not headed on a downhill trek.

"They are absolutely not going out of business," said a spokeswoman for the privately held, fledgling manufacturer of frozen baby food. She attributed the rumors to a negative story in a local newspaper in which a disgruntled investor said sales were not where they should be.

"It was blown out of proportion," she explained. "This is a small, entrepreneurial company. You take the growth steps a little at a time. Sales are where they should be; they're where the company expected them to be."

Scanning data provided by A.C. Nielsen, Schaumburg, Ill., reveals Growing Healthy recorded $2.2 million in sales of its strained baby food for the 52-week period ended in March, an increase of 72.8%. Its junior food line jumped 19.6%.

In spite of the line's success, Julia Knight, who founded the company in 1991, has stepped down as president and chief executive officer, citing the desire to spend more time with her family. She will, however, remain on the board of directors.

Taking over the day-to-day responsibilities as general manager is Bill Bastian, formerly the vice president of sales. Gary Klingl, former chairman of the board, has been appointed the company's CEO. Bryan Virgin retains the title and responsibilities of vice president of marketing.