Nebraska's Dairy Revolution: A $186 Million Investment Boost

SEWARD, Nebraska — The small town of Seward is poised to make a significant impact on the dairy industry with the announcement of a new $186 million milk processing facility. Set to employ around 70 people, this 240,000-square-foot plant, operated by Dari Processing, will focus on producing shelf-stable, aseptic packaged milk, including a popular high-protein, lactose-free product called Moo’v.

Dari Processing, part of the Tuls family's fourth-generation dairy business, plans to process 1.8 million pounds of milk daily. Aseptic milk, which can last a year without refrigeration, is more common in Europe and New Zealand but is gaining popularity in the U.S.

Attendees at the groundbreaking ceremony included Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen, local dignitaries, and Tuls family members, highlighting the plant's importance to Nebraska's economy, especially family-owned agricultural businesses.

The project is supported by substantial public funds, including $1 million in federal grants, $8.6 million in local tax increment financing, and additional state infrastructure improvements. The facility will be the first new dairy processing plant in Nebraska in nearly 60 years.

Governor Pillen emphasized the significance of supporting family-owned businesses, dismissing products like "almond nut juice," and underscoring the importance of traditional cow's milk.

The new facility is expected to reduce transportation costs and energy use, while enhancing the longevity of milk products. It's a venture that signals modernization and growth in the dairy industry and promises to keep Nebraska's milk local, fostering economic growth and reducing carbon footprints.