SCHENECTADY — In a society rife with polarization, businesses that take a stand on social and political issues often face backlash from alienated consumers. However, Schenectady-based Casa Visco is unafraid to make its stance known.
The woman-owned provider of pizza and pasta sauces has recently unveiled two limited-edition products: Feminist Fra Diavolo and My Body, My Choice Homestyle Pasta Sauce. All proceeds from the sales of these products will be donated to Planned Parenthood of Greater New York.
Adine Viscusi, the third-generation owner who took over the business in 2008, states, “I am not afraid to speak my mind and take stances that I strongly believe are the right thing to do.”
When the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June 2022, thus dismantling a five-decade-old decision protecting a woman’s right to abortion, Viscusi immediately sought ways to make a stand. The company sent over 200 postcards to lawmakers nationwide condemning the landmark ruling.
In an effort to benefit Planned Parenthood and support the organization’s wide range of reproductive health care services, Viscusi decided to use her pasta sauce-making skills. She engaged with followers on Facebook, asking for their help in naming the sauces. After selecting what she believed to be the most moderate submissions that symbolized bodily autonomy and freedom of choice, she created the limited-edition sauces.
However, Viscusi encountered difficulties in getting these pro-choice sauces on the shelves due to the polarizing nature of the issue. “Nobody would touch them,” she said. “Most conventional retailers prefer to remain apolitical and avoid taking risks.”
Despite the initial setback, Casa Visco got a breakthrough when the Niskayuna Co-Op expressed interest in stocking the sauces. The community market received eight cases and quickly sold out. The store has become a strong supporter of Casa Visco and is currently the only location carrying the limited-edition sauces. Additionally, cases of 12 jars are available for purchase on the Casa Visco website for $50.
Viscusi expressed her desire to sell the sauces to more retailers willing to support Planned Parenthood, stating, “We would love to sell it to as many bold and brave retailers as possible.”
A Facebook post featuring the sauces on the Niskayuna Co-Op’s page has attracted hundreds of users. While many comments express support, there are also negative reactions from consumers who prefer their brands to remain apolitical. Viscusi’s response to those who are upset is simple: “Don’t buy it.”
Despite negative comments, Viscusi stands by her decisions and supports a woman’s right to choose. She emphasizes that for every negative comment received, her company has received two to three positive ones. Casa Visco remains committed to their beliefs and supports the choices they have made.
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