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Organic Valley Family of Farms, producers of the top-selling organic milk along the Eastern seaboard, and Guida's Milk and Ice Cream, one of the largest dairies in New England, have teamed up to produce and distribute milk through Guida's New Briton, Conn., plant which was certified organic earlier this year.

"The Organic Valley-Guida's partnership unites two dairy industry leaders who are both absolutely committed to independence, quality product and family values," said Louise Hemstead, Organic Valley's chief operating officer. "Together we will bring New England consumers the delicious, fresh Organic Valley milk they want and have plenty of room for expansion and growth in the years to come."

Al Guida III, whose father and grandfather founded the family dairy 118 years ago, reiterated the benefits of the collaboration: "Guida's Milk and Ice Cream always wanted to enter the organic market, but it was only when we found Organic Valley that we found a partner who could share our devotion to service and the personal touch. Not only does Organic Valley share our mission, it lives it! We're proud to make them a part of our family and help the growth of family farms and our business."

Beginning Wednesday, July 7th, all four Organic Valley HTST white milks (whole, 1%, 2% and skim) will be processed at Guida's Milk and Ice Cream. Both half gallons and gallons will be produced. Guida's facilities include a state of the art, new pasteurization facility with plenty of growth capacity.

"Organic Valley is growing more than 20% a year in the Northeast. By co-processing with Guida's Milk and Ice Cream, we know we have picked the right partner to grow along with us," concluded Hemstead.