Vermont food producer celebrates 125th anniversary

Sep 26, 2024 at 10:24 PM

Celebrating a Century of Dairy Excellence: Franklin Foods' Enduring Legacy in Vermont

In the heart of Vermont's picturesque countryside, a food manufacturer is marking a remarkable milestone – 125 years of unwavering dedication to the art of cream cheese production. Franklin Foods, founded in 1899 as Hahn's Cream Cheese Company, has become a beloved institution, woven into the fabric of the state's rich dairy heritage.

Crafting Creamy Perfection: Franklin Foods' Enduring Commitment to Quality

A Century-Old Tradition of Cream Cheese Excellence

Franklin Foods' journey began in 1899 when it was established as Hahn's Cream Cheese Company in the quaint town of Enosburg Falls, Vermont. Over the past 125 years, the company has evolved and grown, but its commitment to producing the finest cream cheese has remained steadfast. Today, Franklin Foods churns out millions of pounds of this beloved dairy product every month, solidifying its position as a leader in the industry.

The secret to Franklin Foods' success lies in its unwavering dedication to quality. The company sources the freshest, highest-quality ingredients from local Vermont dairy farms, ensuring that each batch of cream cheese is crafted with the utmost care and attention to detail. This commitment to excellence has earned Franklin Foods a reputation as a trusted producer of premium cream cheese, sought after by some of the nation's largest coffee chains and grocery stores.

But Franklin Foods' impact extends far beyond its own products. The company's cream cheese has become a staple ingredient for large food manufacturers across the country, adding a touch of creamy indulgence to a wide range of culinary creations. In fact, according to a Franklin Foods spokesperson, more than half the U.S. population consumes some of the company's cream cheese each year, a testament to its widespread popularity and influence.

The Cream Cheese that Conquered New York

Franklin Foods' journey to national prominence began in its early days, when the company's Vermont-made cream cheese was shipped on frozen rail cars to New York City. There, it became a key ingredient in the creation of the world-famous New York-style cheesecake, forever cementing its place in the culinary annals of the Big Apple.

The company's ability to adapt and innovate has been a driving force behind its longevity. As the demand for its cream cheese grew, Franklin Foods expanded its production capabilities, ensuring that its high-quality product remained accessible to consumers across the country. This commitment to growth and evolution has allowed the company to maintain its position as a leader in the dairy industry, even as the market has evolved over the past century.

Today, Franklin Foods' cream cheese can be found in the aisles of major grocery chains, as well as in the kitchens of some of the nation's most renowned restaurants and food service providers. This widespread availability is a testament to the company's unwavering dedication to quality and its ability to meet the ever-changing needs of the market.

Honoring Vermont's Dairy Legacy

The enduring success of Franklin Foods is not just a testament to the company's own achievements, but also a reflection of the vital role that the dairy industry plays in Vermont's history, economy, and cultural identity. In recognition of this, Governor Phil Scott has declared September 26, 2024, as "Cream Cheese Day" in the state, a celebration of Franklin Foods' 125th anniversary and the company's contributions to maintaining Vermont's high standards within the dairy industry.

The proclamation from the governor's office underscores the importance of the dairy industry to Vermont's reputation as a producer of high-quality food and drink. Franklin Foods' legacy is a shining example of how a family-owned business can thrive and grow, while remaining true to the values and traditions that have made Vermont a renowned center of dairy excellence.

As Franklin Foods looks towards the future, the company remains committed to upholding the legacy of its founders and continuing to be a driving force in the dairy industry. With its unwavering dedication to quality, innovation, and community, Franklin Foods is poised to remain a beloved institution in Vermont and a cherished brand across the nation for generations to come.