Minnesota State Wire

The Minnesota Department of Agriculture's Make it Minnesota Program is supporting thirteen local food and beverage brands at the National Restaurant Association (NRA) Show. The event takes place annually in the North Hall of McCormick Place, Chicago, Illinois, and is part of "A Taste of the States" showcase organized by the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture.

The NRA Show is recognized as a significant platform for exposure to regional, national, and international buyers seeking new products for their foodservice operations. It is considered the largest annual gathering of foodservice professionals in the Western Hemisphere.

"We’re proud to support these outstanding Minnesota brands as they work to expand their reach into new markets," said MDA Assistant Commissioner Patrice Bailey. "The National Restaurant Association Show is an incredible opportunity to introduce their innovative products to buyers and distributors from across the country and around the world."

Among the 13 participating Minnesota brands, seven are newcomers to the NRA Show. However, Captain Ken’s Foods stands out with over 25 years at the Minnesota Pavilion. This St. Paul-based family-owned company is noted for its oven-baked beans, chili recipes, cheesy hash browns, taco meat, and other classic offerings.

Owners Mike and John Traxler emphasized the importance of the show for business growth. “The connections we’ve made at the NRA Show have helped us expand our reach, which now touches over 40 states and Canada," said Traxler. “It’s always exciting to share our tried-and-true favorites alongside new recipe innovations as we continue to develop new business with prospective customers, thank existing customers for their years of patronage, and of course, to see other first-time Minnesota exhibitors make their mark."

The Minnesota Pavilion will feature brands including:

- 3 Cricketeers

- Captain Ken's

- Compart Duroc

- Deeply Rooted Farms

- Good Sense Foods

- J's Kombucha

- K-Mama Sauce

- Utopia Borealis

- Nordic Waffles

- Sweethaven Tonics

- The Amazing Chickpea

- Triple Crown BBQ Sauce

- Valley's Own Bakehouse/Kakookies

Additionally, MDA will host a "Minnesota Mingle" reception on Saturday, May 17 for exhibitors and industry attendees from Minnesota. Those interested can contact Erika Camplin at Erika.Camplin@state.mn.us.