Farm To Table
Meet our Local Farm Suppliers
Annie’s Garden
McIntosh, Minnesota
Annie’s Garden is a charming family-owned farm founded by Calvin and Anne Schow, affectionately known as Annie. With a decade of passion and dedication, Annie initiated this venture, consistently cultivating and expanding it year after year. Every week during the summer, you can find Annie at local Farmers Markets, offering an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, canned items, eggs, and frozen meats. We invite you to drop by and experience the goodness of Annie’s Garden!
rolling r bison ranch
Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
RRR has been raising bison north of Pelican Rapids for over thirty years, but there was nowhere local to get bison meat. Karla and PJ decided to change that, and founded Breen Enterprises to provide this delicious, healthy meat option to our friends and neighbors. Otter Tail 23 Meats are all our own bison: raised, harvested, and eaten right here in OTC.
Bigger Farm
Frazee, Minnesota
Barry Bigger, a seasoned farmer, initially managed a certified organic dairy operation and has recently shifted his focus to cultivating egg layers and raising beef cattle. With a history of being a steadfast vendor, Barry has been consistently providing our store with locally sourced eggs and premium ground beef since our establishment in 2017.
North circle seeds
Vergas, Minnesota
As the Board President, Zachary Paige, owner of North Circle Seeds, is dedicated to establishing an ecologically diverse, equitable, and inclusive food system. His commitment is evident through a deliberate connection with the company’s seeds and the network of Midwestern growers. These producers employ chemical-free, sustainable, and organic practices to cultivate regionally adapted seeds under Zachary’s leadership.
Lida Farm
Pelican Rapids, Minnesota
Since 2004 Ryan and Maree Pesch have built Lida Farm into a well-known and diverse vegetable operation which sells through its CSA, on-farm stand, and Pelican Market besides Manna. Rooted in the belief of providing superior food quality to others, the farm reflects a commitment to environmentally-friendly and ethical farming practices. The Pesches’ dedication to regenerative and sustainable farming practices underscores their mission to contribute to a healthier, more conscious food system.
Jake’s Syrup
Vergas, Minnesota
Jake’s Syrups, founded in 1993 by Jerry Jacobson and D. Mae Ceryes, is a family-owned farm committed to sustainable and organic practices. Specializing in maple syrup, the farm offers an array of natural products, including chokecherry and wild plum syrups, as well as a variety of natural jellies and jams made from on-site fruits. The farm’s creative touch extends to repurposing wood into unique items like picture frames, trivets, and coaster sets. Engaging with customers through tours and craft shows, Jerry and D. Mae emphasize a connection between consumers and their authentic, high-quality products, reflecting a dedication to traditional farming practices, sustainability, and community involvement.
Hugh’s Gardens
Halstad, Minnesota
Hugh’s Gardens LLC, located in Halstad, MN, is a certified organic produce marketing business with facilities for storage, washing, and packing. Originally built in the 1940s for conventional potatoes, the storage facility now boasts nine underground bins with advanced ventilation and humidity control, allowing chemical-free preservation of potatoes throughout winter and into spring. Acquired by Hugh Dufner and Carmen Soria-Dufner in 2000, they have since converted the facilities to adhere to certified organic standards, ensuring the production and distribution of premium organic produce.
DOUBTING THOMAS FARMS
Moorhead, Minnesota
Since Lee Thomas’s Great-Great Grandpa planted his very first crop in the rich Red River Valley soil back in 1878, the farm has remained within the family. The Certified-Organic acreage is now dedicated to raising the highest-quality organic oats, wheat, blue corn, barley, and soybeans. In addition to these staples, the farm offers fresh-picked garden produce and certified-organic eggs from happy, free-range chickens. This legacy spans generations, rooted in a commitment to top-tier, organic farming practices.
FAQ
What is the benefit of buying from local produce vendors?
Buying from local produce vendors offers numerous benefits, including fresher and more flavorful produce, support for the local economy, reduced environmental impact, preservation of farmland, community connection, seasonal variety, enhanced food safety and traceability, and the opportunity for customization and special requests. Choosing local products promotes sustainability and contributes to a healthier, more connected community.
Are local produce vendors more sustainable than large supermarkets?
Manna Food Co-op emerges as a sustainable grocery store by prioritizing local produce and fostering community well-being. By sourcing from local vendors, Manna minimizes the environmental impact associated with transportation and promotes seasonal, fresh, and often organic produce. This approach supports smaller-scale, diversified farming practices and contributes to the preservation of biodiversity. Additionally, Manna’s commitment to community support and fair trade principles ensures that economic benefits circulate within the local area while promoting ethical treatment of workers. While large supermarkets may have advantages in terms of scale and efficiency, Manna Food Co-op distinguishes itself as a sustainable option, aligning with environmentally conscious and community-oriented values.
How can I support local produce vendors in my community?
To support local produce vendors in your community through Manna Food Co-op, shop for locally sourced products, participate in Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, attend farmers’ markets and co-op events, spread awareness on social media, and provide positive feedback to strengthen relationships with local vendors. Your actions contribute to the growth and sustainability of local agriculture in Minnesota while enjoying fresh, high-quality produce from your community.