The organic food industry in Minnesota is characterized by a rich variety of companies committed to sustainable and healthy food products. These businesses create everything from snacks, pet foods, and meats, to fresh produce, emphasizing natural ingredients and ethical sourcing. With consumer demand rising for clean-label, organic offerings, many companies are shifting towards more innovative farming and processing techniques. Additionally, local ingredients are being highly prioritized as consumers increasingly connect with companies that champion environmental stewardship and community support, indicating a clear trend towards sustainability and authenticity in food production.

This article highlights 20 notable organic food companies based in Minnesota. Ranging in size from 11 to over 2,200 employees, these companies were founded from 1923 to 2023 and focus on various specialties, including beverages, baked goods, and meat products. Locations span significant centers like Minneapolis and Eden Prairie to emerging firms in smaller towns. Each organization brings a unique approach to the organic market, driven by environmental responsibility and health consciousness, making Minnesota a vibrant hub for organic food innovation.

Continue reading to explore the top organic food companies in Minnesota.

Top 20 Organic Food Companies Companies in Minnesota

1. Back to Nature Foods

• Website: backtonaturefoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 1960
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: back-to-nature-foods

Back to Nature Foods, founded in 1960, is a snack food manufacturer based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The company specializes in creating natural and organic snacks, including cookies, crackers, granola, and nuts. With a workforce of around 28 employees, Back to Nature Foods has carved out a niche for itself by catering to health-conscious consumers who seek better snack options. Their products are made without artificial flavors or colors, high-fructose corn syrup, or genetically modified ingredients, emphasizing their commitment to quality and health. Back to Nature Foods has achieved Non-GMO Project Verification on over 50 products and is actively involved in sustainability initiatives, partnering with The Nature Conservancy to support environmental conservation efforts. This partnership has led to the planting of over 260,000 trees, showcasing their dedication to giving back to the planet. The company operates under the Barilla Group, which acquired it in 2023, allowing it to maintain its brand identity while benefiting from the resources of a larger organization.

2. Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed

• Website: thousandhillslifetimegrazed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Clearwater, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: thousand-hills-lifetime-grazed

Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed, founded in 2003 and based in Clearwater, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in producing grass-fed beef. The company offers a variety of meat products, including steaks, ground beef, and jerky, all sourced from cattle raised on grass-filled pastures. Their operations are rooted in the principles of regenerative agriculture, which aims to restore and enhance natural resources rather than deplete them. Thousand Hills collaborates with 50 hand-selected family farms across the Midwest, Northeast, and West regions of the United States, ensuring that their livestock are treated humanely and raised without antibiotics, artificial hormones, or GMOs. The company has garnered a loyal customer base of health-conscious consumers who prioritize high-quality, ethically sourced meat options. They also provide educational resources on the benefits of grass-fed beef and the importance of sustainable farming practices, further solidifying their role in the organic food industry.

3. Grain Millers, Inc.

• Website: grainmillers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Eden Prairie, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 82%, Canada 17%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: grainmillersinc

Grain Millers, Inc., founded in 1986 and based in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, is a grain processing company that specializes in high-quality food ingredients. With a workforce of approximately 386 employees, the company has carved out a niche in supplying milled grains, functional flours, and custom blends to food manufacturers and retailers. Grain Millers emphasizes clean-label and organic options, ensuring food safety and quality throughout their operations. They are particularly known for their commitment to organic farming practices, sourcing nearly all of their organic grains directly from farmers. This direct relationship not only supports local agriculture but also guarantees that their products are free from chemicals and pesticides. The company also offers services such as formulation assistance and consumer co-packaging, further integrating itself into the food supply chain. Their focus on sustainability and responsible sourcing reflects a growing trend in the food industry towards healthier and more transparent food options.

4. French Meadow Bakery & Cafe

• Website: frenchmeadowcafe.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: french-meadow-bakery-%26-cafe

French Meadow Bakery & Cafe, established in 1985 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a bakery and café that specializes in organic and farm-to-table cuisine. It was the first certified organic bakery in the United States, setting a precedent for quality and sustainability in the food industry. The café offers a wide range of organic baked goods, catering services, and a comfortable dining experience tailored for health-conscious consumers. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, French Meadow maintains strong relationships with numerous local farms, ensuring that their offerings are not only organic but also humane and sustainably farmed. The café has expanded its reach with locations in Minneapolis and Saint Paul, and it continues to innovate with seasonal menus that cater to various dietary preferences, including vegan and gluten-free options.

5. Peoples Organic Coffee & Wine Cafe

• Website: peoplesorganic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: peoples-organic-coffee-%26-wine-cafe

Peoples Organic Coffee & Wine Cafe, founded in 2010 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, operates as a private organic restaurant and cafe. With a workforce of approximately 26 employees, the company has established multiple locations across Minnesota and Massachusetts. Peoples Organic specializes in offering a menu that prioritizes nutritious and sustainable food options, including a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Their commitment to organic practices is evident, as they source ingredients from local and organic farmers, ensuring that over 50% of their offerings are organic and non-GMO. The cafe also serves organic coffee and local beverages, appealing to a health-conscious clientele. Furthermore, Peoples Organic engages in community initiatives, such as supporting local artists and contributing to programs like Harvest for the Hungry, which provides fresh produce to low-income individuals. This involvement highlights their dedication to both quality food and community welfare.

6. NuTek Natural Ingredients

• Website: nuteknatural.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Louis Park, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nu-tek-food-science

NuTek Natural Ingredients, founded in 2006 and based in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, specializes in the production of clean label and nutritional ingredients for the food industry. The company focuses on providing natural flavors, preservatives, and texture solutions that help food manufacturers meet the increasing consumer demand for healthier and more transparent food options. NuTek is committed to sustainability and responsible production practices, which are integral to their operations. Their products are designed to enhance food quality while maintaining a clean label, appealing to health-conscious consumers. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, NuTek plays a significant role in the food ingredient sector, contributing to the broader movement towards healthier eating habits.

7. Lorentz Meats

• Website: lorentzmeats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cannon Falls, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lorentz-meats-%26-deli

Lorentz Meats, based in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, has been a significant player in the meat processing industry since its founding in 1968. The company focuses on natural, organic, and grass-fed meat processing, catering to a range of clients from local farmers to national niche meat brands. With a workforce of approximately 140 employees, Lorentz Meats operates a state-of-the-art facility that emphasizes quality and sustainability. They offer a variety of services, including beef and bison processing, sausage production, and packaging. The company prides itself on its commitment to animal welfare, utilizing a design by Temple Grandin to ensure humane handling practices. Their expansion in 2013, supported by The Organic Meat Company, allowed them to enhance their capabilities and food safety measures. Lorentz Meats is dedicated to transparency, inviting customers to observe their production processes, which has garnered recognition in the industry.

8. Post Consumer Brands

• Website: postconsumerbrands.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lakeville, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 5%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: postconsumerbrands

Post Consumer Brands, established in 2015, is a food manufacturer based in Lakeville, Minnesota, specializing in breakfast cereals and pet food products. The company operates under a mission to make delicious food accessible for all, catering to families and pet owners alike. With a workforce of over 2,200 employees, Post Consumer Brands produces a wide array of products, including iconic cereal brands such as Honey Bunches of Oats, Grape-Nuts, and Malt-O-Meal. The company has made strides in the organic food sector, particularly after acquiring the Weetabix U.S. portfolio, which significantly enhanced their organic cereal offerings. Their commitment to quality and sustainability is evident in their corporate social responsibility initiatives, which prioritize environmental sustainability and community impact. Post Consumer Brands continues to innovate in the food industry, focusing on both traditional and organic products to meet the evolving preferences of consumers.

9. Sunrich Products LLC

• Website: sunrich.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Crookston, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $16.0M, October 2022
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: sunrich-products-llc

Sunrich Products LLC, founded in 2000 and based in Crookston, Minnesota, is a food manufacturer that specializes in sunflower-based products. The company supplies a variety of offerings, including sunflower kernels, roasted snacks, and bird food, catering to both businesses and consumers. Sunrich is deeply involved in the sunflower industry, working closely with growers to ensure a reliable supply chain and maintain high quality standards. They are committed to sustainability and have developed non-GMO hybrid seeds to enhance crop yields. Their facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing them to process sunflower products efficiently. Sunrich has also received significant funding, amounting to $16 million in October 2022, which underscores their growth potential and industry relevance. Their certifications, including organic and food safety standards, further validate their commitment to quality and compliance in the food sector.

10. Revol Greens

• Website: revolgreens.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Owatonna, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $68.0M, September 2020
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: revol-greens

Revol Greens, founded in 2017 and based in Owatonna, Minnesota, is an agricultural producer that specializes in the greenhouse cultivation of lettuce and leafy greens. The company operates multiple greenhouses across the United States, including locations in California, Texas, and Georgia. Revol Greens is dedicated to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that their produce is grown with minimal resources and without unnecessary chemicals. Their innovative approach allows them to deliver fresh greens to consumers and businesses within 24 hours of harvest. The company has received significant funding, totaling $68 million as of September 2020, which supports their expansion and technological advancements in agriculture. Revol Greens aims to revolutionize the greens category by making sustainably grown produce accessible to a wide audience, reflecting their commitment to quality and safety in the food industry.

11. Seven Sundays

• Website: sevensundays.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Bloomington, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $6.0M, June 2023
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: seven-sundays-llc

Seven Sundays, founded in 2011 and based in Bloomington, Minnesota, is a food manufacturer that specializes in breakfast cereals. The company offers a variety of products, including oat protein cereal, sunflower cereal, nut granola, and muesli, catering to health-conscious consumers. They operate an online store, allowing customers to purchase their products directly. Seven Sundays emphasizes the use of 100% real food in their cereals, avoiding artificial flavors, dyes, and preservatives. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their recycling program and their status as a certified B Corporation, which reflects their focus on social and environmental impact. In June 2023, they secured $6 million in funding, indicating ongoing growth and relevance in the organic food industry.

12. Peace Coffee

• Website: peacecoffee.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: peace-coffee

Peace Coffee, founded in 1996 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a coffee roaster that specializes in organic and fair trade coffee products. The company offers a variety of coffee options, including subscriptions and gift bundles, catering to consumers who value ethical sourcing and quality. Peace Coffee is dedicated to building long-term relationships with small-scale coffee farmers around the globe, ensuring that they provide high-quality beans while supporting sustainable farming practices. The company operates primarily online and partners with various retailers to distribute its products, making it accessible to a wider audience. As a certified Benefit Corporation (B-Corp), Peace Coffee demonstrates a commitment to social and environmental responsibility, further solidifying its role in the organic food industry.

13. JonnyPops

• Website: jonnypops.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Elk River, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: jonnypops-llc

JonnyPops, founded in 2011 and based in Elk River, Minnesota, is a manufacturer of frozen desserts that specializes in creating frozen pops. The company was established by Erik Brust and Connor Wray, who began their journey in a college dorm room. JonnyPops is dedicated to using simple, wholesome ingredients, and they offer a variety of products, including organic and allergen-friendly options. Their product line features organic freezer pops made with organic apple juice and other natural ingredients, appealing to health-conscious consumers. JonnyPops operates in the food and beverage industry, distributing its products through retail locations and online sales. The company also engages in community initiatives, promoting kindness through their "Kindness is Golden" program, which encourages acts of kindness among consumers. JonnyPops has gained recognition for its commitment to quality and social responsibility, making it a notable player in the organic food market.

14. Sweet Harvest Foods

• Website: sweetharvestfoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Cannon Falls, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2016
• Founded year: 1923
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mel-o-honey-inc

Sweet Harvest Foods, based in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, has been a player in the natural sweetener market since its founding in 1923. The company specializes in sourcing, producing, and supplying high-quality honey, agave, and molasses to various sectors, including food service, retail, and manufacturing. They pride themselves on their rigorous sourcing standards and a commitment to food safety, ensuring that their products meet strict quality requirements. Sweet Harvest Foods has developed strong relationships with beekeepers and agave farmers, allowing them to maintain a reliable supply chain. Their agave products are certified organic and non-GMO project verified, showcasing their dedication to organic practices. The company also engages in corporate giving, contributing to local communities through product donations and partnerships with non-profits. With a workforce of around 78 employees, Sweet Harvest Foods continues to operate as a trusted supplier in the natural sweetener industry.

15. Coffee Works

• Website: coffeeworks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Ireland 57%, Netherlands 14%, United States (USA) 14%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: coffee-works

Coffee Works, founded in 1982 and based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is a private coffee roaster and café that has carved a niche in the specialty coffee market. The company is dedicated to sourcing, roasting, and blending high-quality organic coffee, ensuring that all their products are certified organic. This commitment to organic practices is not just a marketing strategy; it reflects their core values of sustainability and ethical sourcing. Coffee Works actively supports farmer-owned cooperatives, which allows them to maintain direct relationships with coffee producers and ensure fair compensation for their labor. In addition to their coffee operations, Coffee Works runs an in-house bakery, offering a variety of pastries and breakfast items, further enhancing their community-oriented café experience. Their focus on quality and community engagement positions them as a relevant player in the organic food sector.

16. Return

• Website: returnco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stewartville, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: returnco

Return Co, founded in 2009 and based in Stewartville, Minnesota, is a private company focused on gardening supplies that enhance soil health and support plant growth. With a team of 41 employees, Return offers a range of organic soil amendments, including compost, fertilizers, potting mixes, and worm castings. Their products cater to both home gardeners and farmers seeking sustainable solutions for improving soil quality. The company emphasizes the importance of healthy soil for producing healthy food and living healthy lives. Their commitment to using locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices reflects their dedication to regenerative agriculture. Return Co's products are designed to foster microbial life in the soil, which is essential for nutrient uptake and overall plant resilience. They have not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.

17. Bushel Boy Farms

• Website: bushelboy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Owatonna, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bushel-boy-farms

Bushel Boy Farms, founded in 2013 and based in Owatonna, Minnesota, is a private agricultural producer specializing in greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables, particularly tomatoes and cucumbers. With a workforce of around 35 employees, the company operates high-tech greenhouses in both Minnesota and Iowa, allowing them to deliver fresh produce to grocery stores and consumers across the Midwest throughout the year. Their focus on sustainable farming practices is evident in their innovative growing methods, which optimize fruit quality while ensuring environmental responsibility. Bushel Boy Farms is also committed to community support, donating tons of produce to local food shelves to help combat hunger. Their operations are designed to provide high-quality, flavorful products while minimizing their ecological footprint.

18. Living Greens Farm, Inc.

• Website: livinggreensfarm.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Faribault, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $12.0M, April 2018
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: living-greens-farm-inc-

Living Greens Farm, Inc., based in Faribault, Minnesota, is an innovative company dedicated to indoor farming. Founded in 2011, it utilizes advanced aeroponic technology to grow fresh greens and salads year-round. This method allows the company to produce high-quality, pesticide-free produce while using 95% less water and 98% less land than traditional farming. Living Greens Farm primarily serves consumers in the Midwest, ensuring that their products reach grocery store shelves much faster than those grown in distant locations. The company has received $12 million in funding, reflecting strong investor interest in its sustainable farming practices and potential for growth. With a focus on delivering fresh, healthy, and environmentally friendly food, Living Greens Farm is positioned as a significant player in the organic food industry.

19. Honeybear Marketing LLC

• Website: honeybearbrands.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Elgin, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: honeybear-marketing-llc

Honeybear Marketing LLC, operating under the brand Honeybear Brands, is an agricultural company based in Elgin, Minnesota. Founded in 1984, it has grown from a small family orchard into a significant player in the apple industry. The company specializes in the cultivation and distribution of premium apple varieties, including well-known types like Honeycrisp and Pazazz. Honeybear Brands emphasizes sustainable farming practices, collaborating closely with family farmers across North America and Chile. Their operations span multiple states and include year-round varietal development to meet consumer demand. In addition to fresh apples, they produce apple ciders, showcasing their commitment to quality and innovation in the apple market. The company also promotes environmental stewardship through initiatives like their Adopt-an-Acre program, which focuses on protecting pollinators and enhancing biodiversity in their orchards.

20. TerraMax, Inc.

• Website: terramaxag.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Eagan, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: terramaxag

TerraMax, Inc., founded in 1998 and based in Eagan, Minnesota, is a private company that specializes in agricultural solutions through microbial products. With a team of approximately 27 employees, TerraMax focuses on enhancing crop yields and improving soil health through innovative microbial inoculants. Their product offerings include solutions for various crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, as well as specific formulations for organic farming that comply with NOP certifications. TerraMax emphasizes the importance of research and development in their operations, ensuring that their products are scientifically validated to support sustainable farming practices. The company has established itself as a significant player in the agricultural sector, shipping products globally and catering to the needs of farmers and agricultural producers.

Organic Food Companies Insights: Key Companies in Minnesota

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