From the start, the Frantz family lived, worked, and traveled the world together, as the Navy carried them to nearly every corner of the globe. From the United States and Canada to Latin America and the Caribbean, from the rich cultures of Asia to the vibrant islands of the Pacific, each place left a distinctive mark and brought new experiences, friendships, and flavors into their lives.

Latin America instilled in them a love for the habanero pepper and bold, vibrant herbs. The Caribbean taught them about pairing heat with soul. Asia introduced them to balance and depth, while India layered spice with complexity and harmony. In every port and every home, food became their way of connecting with people and cultures—experiences that left a lasting impression on both their lives and their kitchen table.

In 2018, while living in South Korea, Ilka asked Jerry if he could make a hot sauce like the one from her childhood in Panama. Jerry had never made hot sauce before, but he wanted to give Ilka a taste of home. His first attempt was far from perfect, but he kept experimenting, adding herbs and spices they had discovered over decades of travel. Slowly, the sauce transformed—becoming fragrant, colorful, and full of flavor, with just the right balance of heat.

When Ilka tasted it, she loved it. When her brother in Panama tried it and said it was even better than the well-known brand from home, Jerry knew they had created something truly special.

What began as a family’s journey has grown into a passion for sharing those flavors with the world. More than just sauce, it’s a family’s story—born from service, travel, family, and love, and hand-crafted to be shared at your table.

Something Special

World Map

2006 – 2009

Lived in the Midwest

Achiote Achiote
Culantro Culantro

1990 – 1994

Lived on the West Coast in the USA

Achiote Achiote
Culantro Culantro

2021 – 2025

Germany

France, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, Austria, Spain, Canary Islands, Malta, Monte Negro, Portugal, Panama, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Morocco

Black Pepper Black Pepper
Curry Curry

2012 – 2021

South Korea

Thailand, Japan, Indonesia, Panama

Garlic Garlic
Ginger Ginger

2000 – 2006

Japan

Thailand, Guam, Sri Lanka, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, Saipan, China, Hong Kong, Shanghai, India, New Caledonia, Korea, Okinawa

Garlic Garlic
Ginger Ginger

1990 – 1994

India

Curry Curry
Turmeric Turmeric
Cumin Cumin
Saffron Saffron
Black Pepper Black Pepper

2009 – 2012

Lived in the East Coast in USA

Cilantro Cilantro
Habanero peppers Habanero peppers

1996 – 2000

Puerto Rico

Achiote Achiote
Culantro Culantro

1986 – 1989

Panama

Cilantro Cilantro
Limes Limes
Habanero peppers Habanero peppers