June 3, 2008

Organic Prairie partners Dakota Beef to boost organic beef supply

Cropp Cooperative and Dakota Beef, the largest vertically integrated organic Beef producer in the United States, have reached an agreement for a partnership to expand the US organic beef cattle supply in a multi-year agreement.

Cropp Cooperatitve is North America's largest farmer owned co-op and markets products under the Organic Valley and Organic Prairie brands.

Dakota Beef's CEO Scott Lively said by combining efforts, the companies expand their reach in the marketplace to answer consumer demand to ensure a strong supply of organic beef through the end of year and all of 2009.

While other beef companies are struggling to supply the market with increased demand as traditional retailers take organic beef "behind the counter" and offer more choice cuts, Dakota Beef said it it is prepared to meet demand through innovative supply chain management and long term partnerships with producers.

There is currently more certified organic calves on feed than ever before, said David Wilcox, an organic cattle finisher from Madison, South Dakota. Ranchers are happy too,

Dakota Beef, LLC is the leading certified 100% organic beef company in the country. Dakota Beef operates its own 33,000 square foot certified organic; USDA inspected processing plant in Howard, South Dakota.

Dakota Beef finishes its cattle on a proprietary mix of certified organic grains to promote high levels of marbling and ensure consistently flavorful and tender beef.

Organic Prairie is the meat brand from CROPP Cooperative, who also market certified organic dairy, eggs, juice, soy, and produce under the Organic Valley brand. CROPP is North America's largest farmer-owned cooperative, with over 1,200 members in 32 states. Organic Prairie offers a full line of certified organic chicken, pork, turkey, and beef, and has been producing organic meat products for over 10 years.