[Page S3313]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                      RECOGNIZING NORTHWOOD FOODS

<bullet> Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on 
Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an 
outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize 
Northwood Foods as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  In 1998, Brian Burkard founded Northwood Foods in Northwood, IA, with 
a vision to provide high-quality, custom pork processing services. The 
company began with a focus on boning and fabrication, quickly gaining 
traction in the industry. Within just 2 years, it expanded to serve 
clients not only across the United States but internationally. The 
rapid growth prompted major facility expansions in 2001 and 2006 to 
support increased demand for its products and services.
  Today, Northwood Foods operates a 40,000-square-foot facility and 
employs more than 180 community employees. Renowned for its quality 
products and reliable service, the company now processes more than 
600,000 pounds of fresh pork daily. Northwood Foods then ships the pork 
products directly to many of the Nation's premier pork processors for 
further production and distribution. Northwood Foods offers a wide 
range of pork processing services, including both standardized and 
custom-cut products tailored to client needs. Its versatile 
capabilities allow for pork ham boning, loin boning, rib cutting, and 
specialty fabrication. The company produces a broad selection of cuts, 
from semi-boneless and skinless shanks to various bone-in and boneless 
options. With a strong emphasis on food safety, consistency, and 
customer service, Northwood Foods upholds rigorous quality control 
standards and operates a production schedule 5 days a week to meet 
domestic and international demand.
  In addition to its industry leadership, Northwood Foods is deeply 
committed to giving back to the Northwood community and the surrounding 
area. As a proud Purple Ribbon Partner of the Worth County Fair, the 
company plays a vital role in supporting this annual event. Their 
sponsorship helps ensure the fair remains a vibrant celebration of the 
area's farming heritage and community spirit. Northwood Foods is also a 
member of the Northwood Chamber of Commerce and supports national 
industry organizations, including the U.S. Meat Export Federation and 
the American Association of Meat Processors. In February, Northwood 
Foods celebrated its 27th anniversary.
  I want to congratulate Brian Burkard and the entire team at Northwood 
Foods for their dedication and continued leadership in the pork 
processing industry, alongside their long-standing commitment to 
quality, innovation, and community support. I look forward to seeing 
their continued growth and success.<bullet>

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