Turning Surplus Vegetables into Delicious Value-Added CPG Products and Reducing Food Waste
I live on a small farm. I would hardly call myself a farmer, but over the past 5 years, I have learned how difficult it is to work the land and grow food for people.
Our goal at the OFI is to support farmers and help them recover or save the produce that may not sell at the market in its raw form. The OFI’s unique team of chefs takes pride in creating and turning that surplus into something special. We introduce farmers to the opportunity and resources they need to transform excess produce into high-quality, market-ready products, helping reduce food waste and support sustainable farming communities.
Our approach is simple, collaborative, and tailored to each farmer’s needs:
• It all begins when a farmer reaches out to us with a specific product that needs to be saved or shares their interest in creating a specific product—whether it’s pickles, jams, sauces, or other preserved goods—from their surplus vegetables.
• We work with the farmer to suggest a few flavorful recipe options that are suited to their produce and market goals. Whether they want to make a small batch or a larger volume, we help identify the best approach.
• We move quickly and reserve production time as we understand that these items are perishable and have a limited shelf life in their raw form.
• The farmer delivers the surplus vegetables they want to use and any other supporting ingredients that they may grow.
• We handle the rest—producing in the volume they desire. We supply all the missing ingredients, containers, and packaging needed to create a professional, high-quality product.
• To ensure the product is marketplace-ready, we assist the farmer in reviewing their label to ensure compliance – ingredient listing, nutrition facts, company name, and placement.
• Once the product is packaged and labeled, it’s ready for sale.
The farmer benefits from a value-added product with a long shelf life, an additional revenue stream, items for sale in the off season and a stronger connection to the consumer market.
This process isn’t just good business; it’s good for the planet and our communities:
• Reduces Food Waste: Crop surpluses that might otherwise be discarded are rescued and given new life.
• Supports Local Farmers: Turning surplus into value-added products creates new income streams and helps diversify farm revenue.
• Provides Quality, Farm-Fresh Products: Consumers get access to delicious, sustainable, farm-made goods that support local agriculture.
• Promotes Sustainability: Reducing food waste and supporting eco-friendly packaging and processes contribute to a healthier planet.
Are you a farmer with surplus vegetables? Or a consumer passionate about supporting local, sustainable agriculture? Together, we can create a more resilient, responsible food system—one jar of Dilly Beans or other delicious product at a time.
Get in touch with us today to learn how we can help turn your surplus into success!