Michigan Apple Orchard Partners With Jennifer Garner’s Once Upon A Farm For Production

Michigan apples are known as being some of the best in the country. And now thanks to a few upgrades to a east side farm, they may be helping feed babies all over the United State soon.

Almar Orchards, a beloved family-owned organic apple orchard in Clayton Township, is gearing up for an exciting opportunity. Thanks to a recent grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Organic Market Development Grant program, the orchard is set to purchase and install a new washing and sorting line. This investment will not only expand their capacity but also open doors to the baby and kid food market.

The grant, part of a $40.5 million initiative supporting organic market development, will enable Almar Orchards to partner with Once Upon a Farm, a renowned baby food company co-founded by actor Jennifer Garner. Once Upon a Farm approached Almar Orchards due to its dedication to organic farming and sustainable practices. As well as their location here in Michigan.

Thanks to their first update in 40 years, the Orchard's new washing and sorting line will serve as an aggregator for other growers in the region. Almar Orchards also plans to expand their organic apple production by 100 acres, a significant step towards meeting the demand for organic commodities.

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Once Upon a Farm, known for its farm-fresh snacks and meals for babies and kids, operates a processing plant in Milwaukee. They currently source apples from across the country, but working with Almar Orchards will streamline their supply chain and strengthen their commitment to organic growers.

This partnership not only benefits Almar Orchards but also aligns with broader efforts to support local organic agriculture and expand access to healthy, sustainable food options for families nationwide.

Plus, we get the bragging rights of getting to help supply a big name celebrity brand just from our own state's apples. We can't wait for our little ones to taste this food in the future.