News

Dean Foods becomes majority owner in dairy alternative business

Dean Foods Company has become a majority shareholder of Good Karma Foods, a plant-based food and beverage company.

Dean Foods declined an interview with Brownfield but provided statements. CEO Ralph Scozzafava says diversification to higher-growth and on trend products is a key focus for Dean Foods.

Good Karma Foods CEO Doug Radi says the partnership will make their flax-based non-dairy beverages and yogurts more accessible across the U.S. and better positioned them to support families looking for plant-based options.

This is Dean Foods’ second time around in the dairy alternative business. The company previously owned WhiteWave, an organic and plant-based food company, but sold it to Danone in 2016.

Meanwhile, Dean Foods is expected to close seven milk processing plants in seven states by the end of this year including ones in Livonia, Michigan, Thief River Falls, Minnesota and Huntley, Illinois.