What’s in your pantry? Chances are good that some of the foods or beverages originated in Minnesota. Food — its production, processing and distribution — have been an important part of the state’s economy since the 19th century. Today, three Fortune 500 food processors (General Mills, Land O’Lakes and Hormel) and three food wholesalers and retailers (CHS, Supervalu and Nash Finch) call Minnesota home.
Although it is not as large as its Fortune 500 brethren, St. Paul-based Kemps is a formidable competitor in the Upper Midwest. The Grade A dairy processor and ice cream maker dominates sales of milk and frozen desserts in Minnesota and Wisconsin.