USA – Governor Josh Shapiro has announced a USD 3 million investment to support the growth of Folkland Foods, a prominent player in organic agriculture based in Waterford, Erie County, Pennsylvania.
The funding, provided through Pennsylvania’s Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP), aims to enhance Folkland’s organic farming capabilities, expand product lines, and ultimately create up to 50 jobs over the next three years.
Folkland Foods, owned by the Troyer family, has been a vital part of Pennsylvania’s agricultural landscape for generations, specializing in organic potatoes.
This investment will enable Folkland to scale its operations, transition additional farmland into organic production, and develop new potato-based products, reinforcing the state’s standing in sustainable food production.
Governor Shapiro emphasized the significance of supporting homegrown agricultural initiatives, stating, “This $3 million investment is not only a boost for Folkland Foods but also a commitment to Pennsylvania’s farmers and the communities they support. The Troyer family has worked tirelessly to lead in organic farming, and this expansion brings new, good-paying jobs to Erie County while promoting local, sustainable agriculture.”
Brian Garlick, Chief Operating Officer of Folkland Foods and a long-term employee of Troyer, Inc., highlighted Folkland’s mission to bring “better-for-you” products to consumers.
He described the company’s approach to ingredient transparency, saying, “Our goal is to provide products with minimal ingredients that are familiar to consumers. Knowing exactly what’s in your food is rare today, and eliminating pesticides is our first step in offering healthier choices.”
Garlick added that the Troyer family’s dedication to quality and community has remained steadfast through the generations, creating a solid foundation for Folkland’s continued success.
“Working with the Troyer family, I see the same commitment to community and family values. It’s a privilege to contribute to Folkland’s growth alongside them,” he said.
The organic potato market has been growing significantly across the United States, driven by consumer demand for sustainable, pesticide-free food options. California leads the nation in organic potato production, accounting for over half of the country’s total harvested acres.
However, states like Colorado and Pennsylvania are emerging as significant contributors to this rapidly expanding market.
In recent years, the U.S. market share for organic potatoes has nearly doubled, with organic potato sales reaching USD 150 million in recent estimates.
This increase aligns with a broader consumer shift toward organic and minimally processed foods, highlighting the importance of investments like Pennsylvania’s in promoting sustainable farming practices and local food production.
The Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, overseen by Pennsylvania’s Office of the Budget, supports local projects that stimulate economic growth and create jobs.
Folkland Foods’ expansion aligns with RACP’s mission by generating employment opportunities, boosting local tax revenues, and reinforcing Pennsylvania’s agricultural economy.
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