We’ve been loving on this line of 100% grass-fed, organic dairy products for a few years now. It’s not just the taste of their milks and yogurts (which is exceptional) that drew us in, but also the philosophy (use the best possible farming practices and you’ll benefit both children and the planet) that backs everything they do. We were tickled to be able to chat with Maple Hill about where they’ve been, what new products they’re excited about, and what is the best use of their new blended yogurts (Hint: it’s incredibly delicious and fun to make with your kids!).

RT: Who is behind the creation of Maple Hill?
MH: Today, Maple Hill has over 150 small family farms from which we source our milk. But back at the very beginning, there was only one family and one farm—Stone Creek Farm—a 250-acre dairy farm that Tim and Laura Joseph purchased in 2003. Tim and Laura had no farming experience — they had never milked a cow — but received a fast education when sixty-four cows stepped off the trailers in 2004. The Josephs began as conventional dairy farmers, but quickly became enamored with organic practices.

RT: What sets Maple Hill apart from other organic dairy products on the market? 
MH: Maple Hill is rooted in our desire to provide the best nutrition for our own kids and that idea is still the “heartbeat” of our company—we believe that 100% grass-fed organic dairy farming done right is the pinnacle of organic, creates the best nutrition for all kids, and leaves the soil better than we found it. It doesn’t get any better than that! Our products are made from our own strictly managed 100% grass-fed organic farms – the milk they produce makes all the difference.

RT: How important is it for you to source local, NY State ingredients?
MH: Our milkshed is the heart of our business. We have over 150 small family farms, all of which are in NY and run by NY families.

RT: What’s the latest from Maple Hill? 
MH: We just released our new Blended Yogurt – we think it’s the highest quality blended yogurt on the market, and the only 100% grass-fed organic one!

RT: How would you describe the role dairy plays for those pursuing a clean, healthy lifestyle?
MH: Dairy is a wonderful health food when it’s from 100% grass-fed organic sources – it is better for the land, the farmers, the cows and in the end, better for you. It has a higher nutritional profile than conventional milk and we use very little sugar, and no additives.

RT: When you’re not noshing on wholesome, grass-fed dairy products… What are you loving to eat right now? What are your go-to’s?
MH: We love Perky Jerky and Teton Waters Ranch sausages – both grass-fed products themselves! We’re also huge fans of Vital Farms eggs and butter.

RT: What’s your favorite recipe to make using a Maple Hill product? 
MH: Definitely our Frozen Yogurt Bark.

RT: What’s one FUN thing most people don’t know about Maple Hill? 
MH: None of the founders had a background in farming when they started this journey.

RT: So many in this community dream of starting their own business. What’s your best piece of advice for launching a successful local biz?
MH: Surround yourself with people that have passion and are great at what they do.