Unveiling the Best: Cream of the Crop Revealed

Exclusive Interview with Stephanie Painter Images provided by Painterland Sisters

Stephanie Painter, co-founder of Painterland Sisters alongside her sister, Hayley, delves into the significance of agriculture and the distinctive qualities of their skyr yogurt. What was your upbringing like on the family farm? Hayley and I belong to the fourth generation of farmers on our family's organic, regenerative dairy and crop farm. Our childhood was spent outdoors, caring for animals and the land. Our mornings were filled with hearty breakfasts prepared by our grandmother, Lynda Painter, featuring steak, potatoes, and pie.

Being on a family farm allowed us to be surrounded by our parents, siblings, grandparents, and cousins daily, a rare privilege. We absorbed knowledge and honed practical skills while also enjoying moments of freedom, like swimming in the creek after a day of haying with our father. This lifestyle was idyllic, and we cherished every moment.

Both of you pursued higher education. How did that shape your perspective? I attended Susquehanna University in Pennsylvania, and Hayley initially joined me before transferring to Iowa State. College revealed to us the disconnect people have from the source of their food, a stark realization for us as farmers. Our subsequent travels across the US and various countries highlighted the desire people have to establish a connection with their food.

Does your product facilitate this connection? In a market dominated by ten major corporations, offering consumers direct access to food from a farmer is vital. Each cup of our yogurt initiates a dialogue about sustainable agriculture and the importance of knowing your farmer, not only for personal health but also for environmental well-being.

How did the inception of Painterland Sisters come about? Growing up on a farm instilled a deep sense of pride in us, inspired by the generations before us. When it was our turn to take the reins, we expressed the need to explore the world before returning to the farm to share its essence with the world. Our goal was to bridge the gap, understanding the existing disconnection before fostering connection.

Post-college, we embarked on a journey visiting farms nationwide, learning about vertical integration strategies in product supply chains. Recognizing the dairy crisis and the threat to dairy farmers, we sought ways to utilize our surplus milk productively. This led us to focus on producing organic skyr yogurt, a nutrient-rich value-added product derived from milk.

Our collaboration with the Center for Dairy Excellence in Harrisburg and Kitchen Table Consultants provided the initial support and guidance. Initially planning a diverse product range, we pivoted to concentrate solely on skyr yogurt, recognizing its potential.

What sets your yogurt apart from other dairy products? Our yogurt commences with high-quality milk processed using ultrafiltration, preserving all thirteen essential nutrients and substantial natural protein content—up to 21 grams per serving. We incorporate a natural lactase enzyme, rendering our products lactose-free, along with billions of probiotics. Maintaining 6 percent milk fat ensures a creamy texture, enhancing both taste and nutritional value.

How have consumers responded to your product? The reception to our product has been overwhelmingly positive, generating significant word-of-mouth buzz. Launched in early 2020, Painterland Sisters is now available in over 2,000 stores, with a revenue milestone of $1.3 million in the first year. Projections for 2023 indicate a revenue target of $3.5 million.

Can we expect new flavors or product expansions in the future? Recently, we introduced Savannah's Peach, named after my stepdaughter, and expanded our offerings with larger sizes of our plain and vanilla bean flavors. The community has embraced these options for versatile usage. While exploring potential avenues for growth, we remain committed to our core mission. The possibilities are endless!

What significance does this venture hold for your family and farm? Reflecting on this journey evokes emotions. Prior to our grandfather's passing, we pledged to return to the farm and create something extraordinary. This promise has been a driving force for us.

Our family's involvement in the farm, with two uncles and our father as owners, and our brothers and cousin as workers, allows us to shape our destiny collectively. By engaging directly with the land and animals and marketing our products independently, we uphold our commitment to the farm's legacy.

Does your success inspire hope for transforming the industry at large? Absolutely. Our aim is not only to sustain our family farm but to advocate for all farms. By showcasing the potential of creating unique products, we encourage others to explore similar avenues. Sustainable agriculture is crucial for personal and environmental well-being, urging consumers to make informed choices.

How has the journey been as sisters? Transitioning from sisters to business partners has been a remarkable evolution. Our shared vision of making a difference in the world has guided us. Balancing our roles in the world and on the farm has been a learning experience, blending sophistication with rustic charm. While we have achieved milestones, there is still much to discover.