Dakota Growers

Dakota growers co logo

Dakota Growers is a prominent pasta manufacturing company based in Carrington, North Dakota. The company is known for producing a wide range of pasta products, including spaghetti, macaroni, and lasagna noodles. Dakota Growers was founded in 1990 as a cooperative by a group of durum wheat farmers who sought to add value to their crops by processing them into pasta.

History

Dakota Growers was established in 1990 by a cooperative of durum wheat farmers in North Dakota. The cooperative aimed to create a vertically integrated company that could control the entire process from wheat cultivation to pasta production. This initiative allowed the farmers to capture more value from their crops and ensure a stable market for their durum wheat.

In 2002, Dakota Growers transitioned from a cooperative to a publicly traded company. This change allowed the company to access additional capital for expansion and modernization. In 2010, Dakota Growers was acquired by Post Holdings, a consumer packaged goods holding company.

Products

Dakota Growers produces a variety of pasta products, including:

• Spaghetti
• Macaroni
• Lasagna noodles
• Penne
• Rotini
• Fettuccine

The company is known for its high-quality pasta, which is made from 100% durum wheat semolina. Dakota Growers' products are sold under various brand names and are available in both retail and foodservice markets.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing process at Dakota Growers involves several key steps: 1. **Milling**: Durum wheat is milled into semolina, a coarse flour that is ideal for pasta production. 2. **Mixing**: The semolina is mixed with water to form a dough. 3. **Extruding**: The dough is extruded through dies to create different pasta shapes. 4. **Drying**: The pasta is dried to remove moisture and ensure a long shelf life. 5. **Packaging**: The dried pasta is packaged for distribution.

Sustainability

Dakota Growers is committed to sustainable practices in its operations. The company works closely with farmers to promote sustainable agriculture practices, including crop rotation and reduced use of chemical inputs. Additionally, Dakota Growers has implemented energy-efficient technologies in its manufacturing facilities to reduce its environmental footprint.

See Also

• Pasta
• Durum wheat
• Post Holdings
• Carrington, North Dakota