Foremost Farms USA, a prominent dairy cooperative operating across seven states, has recently joined forces with Vanguard Renewables, a leading national player in organics-to-renewable energy production. This collaboration marks a pivotal step towards fostering sustainable organic waste reduction and renewable energy generation within the dairy industry.

As a cooperative owned by hundreds of dedicated Midwest dairy farm members, Foremost Farms is renowned for its commitment to producing top-quality milk used in the production of acclaimed cheese, butter, and dairy ingredients. By joining Vanguard Renewables’ Farm Powered Strategic Alliance (FPSA), Foremost Farms aims to bolster its dedication to sustainable practices and extend support to generational dairy farmers across America.

Neil H. Smith, Chief Executive Officer of Vanguard Renewables, expressed enthusiasm about Foremost Farms’ inclusion in the FPSA, emphasizing the cooperative’s role in fostering sustainable farming practices. He highlighted the alignment between Foremost Farms’ commitment to sustainability and Vanguard Renewables’ mission of exploring solutions for food waste reduction.

The FPSA, a collaborative initiative focused on driving systemic change in the dairy industry, is dedicated to promoting sustainable organic waste reduction and regenerative agriculture solutions. With Foremost Farms joining the alliance, FPSA gains a valuable partner with extensive experience in sustainable agriculture and a firm commitment to supporting America’s dairy farmers.

Greg Schlafer, President and CEO of Foremost Farms, echoed the cooperative’s dedication to sustainability, emphasizing the importance of partnerships that focus on environmental stewardship in the dairy industry. He expressed satisfaction in joining the FPSA as a strategic step towards furthering Foremost Farms’ commitment to sustainability and value creation for dairy farm families.

Vanguard Renewables’ partnership with food and beverage manufacturers facilitates the recycling of inedible food waste through Farm Powered anaerobic digestion, converting organic waste into renewable natural gas (RNG). This RNG is utilized to generate electricity, heat, and transportation fuel, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

Rachel Turgasen, Senior Director of Member Relations and Corporate Sustainability at Foremost Farms, emphasized the partnership’s role in amplifying Foremost Farms’ commitment to sustainability and supporting its members’ efforts. Together with Vanguard Renewables, Foremost Farms aims to drive positive change in the dairy industry and contribute to a more sustainable future.

The FPSA continues to expand, with Foremost Farms joining other industry leaders such as Danone, AstraZeneca, Unilever, Starbucks, and several other national partners. This collaborative effort among like-minded companies is setting a new standard for sustainability and environmental stewardship across industries, making a lasting impact on the environment and local communities.