Westby Creamery Invests $2 Million in Sour Cream Operations
Nov 15, 2021 (Westby, WI)
Westby Cooperative Creamery is proud to announce a $2 million investment has been made to its sour cream operations. This commitment allows Westby Creamery to introduce a new, all-natural sour cream squeezable pouch to its retail line of dairy products, which is now available in select grocery stores.
The project began in 2018 when Westby Creamery sought new ways to increase its sour cream sales. The squeezable pouch checked all the necessary boxes. Not only will it drive sales, it also allows Westby Creamery to compete with other well-known brands. Westby Creamery expects to increase sour cream sales by 3,000,000 pounds annually and, as a result, four jobs will be added.
“This investment also provides another layer of security for our farmers, who need a consistent place to send their milk. When demand is high for the products we make, farmers can be assured 100 percent of their milk is used by the Creamery,” Emily Bialkowski, sales, and marketing manager said.
The $2 million investment includes a new filler for packaging sour cream pouches, new packaging, and renovations to the plant to ensure production runs smoothly.
The process of putting sour cream in a pouch begins with milk, which is separated to create the main ingredient – cream – for sour cream. Next, the cream is mixed with other ingredients and goes through pasteurization and homogenization. The mixture is then put in a tank where cultures and bacteria are added to develop flavor and desired pH levels. When desired pH levels are reached, the product is cooled and sent to the filler where it is put into 14-ounce pouches.
Investing in innovation is crucial to remain relevant in the food industry. “We have to be willing to take risks and invest in new projects,” Ryan O’Donnell, Creamery plant manager, said. “It’s what will keep us around for many years.”
Westby Cooperative Creamery dairy products are widely distributed in the Upper Midwest. To find a store near you, visit /store-locator/ and enter your zip code. Or, stop by the Westby Creamery Cheese Store at 206 South Main Street, Westby.
