Lakeland Fresh Farms, a local producer of hydroponically grown greens in Chesterfield Township, is expanding with the addition of an 80,000-square-foot indoor farm. The new facility, which is scheduled to be operational this summer, will expand the company’s distribution via grocers and restaurants throughout metro Detroit.
“More than ever before, there is demand for high-quality produce that is locally produced,” says Joe Corace, president and CEO of Lakeland Fresh Farms. “The initial response from restaurants and supermarkets has been overwhelmingly positive. We look forward to expanding the availability of our products throughout the metro Detroit region.”
Lakeland Fresh Farms grows high-quality greens year-round, utilizing what it cites as the most environmentally and socially responsible business practices. The company states its products are 100 percent free of pesticides and herbicides as well as animal byproducts.
Each product also is packaged with 40 percent less plastic than traditional packaging and is 100 percent recyclable.
The hydroponic growth process is an environmentally and socially responsible business practice that requires 90 percent less water than open-field farming. The greens are grown in nutrient-enriched water, not soil. The process creates produce that requires fewer natural resources and takes less time to grow. Climate, water, and nutrients are all controlled throughout the process.
Currently, the products are available in limited distribution. The lineup include:
- Pure Romaine – smooth and crisp red and green baby romaine leaves.
- Crisp ‘n Clean – crunchy, sweet, and serrated baby green leaves.
- Always Aromatic Basil – fresh and flavorful large-leaf basil.
The greens are harvested and packaged hands-free year-round and go straight from harvest to stores and restaurants in just hours. Currently, the products are available through limited distribution at Meijer’s Woodward Corner Market in Royal Oak as well as Hollywood Markets, Plum Market, Market Square, Honey Bee Market, Market Fresh, and Better Health Market and Café.
Corace, a Wayne State University Engineering Hall of Fame member, is joined at Lakeland Fresh Farms by:
- Jeff Gilbert, vice president and chief scientific officer
- Rose Paczkowski, CFO
- Dan Buckley, director of projects and facilities
- Michelle Lutz, sales manager
- Sanessa Moens, assistant grower
For more information visit, lakelandfreshfarms.com.
