Ardent Mills’ new Tampa mill harnesses data-powered tech to bolster state-of-the-art operation

23-Mar-2022 - Last updated on 23-Mar-2022 at 12:37 GMT

Denver, Colorado-headquartered Ardent Mills operates in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico. Pic: Ardent Mills

Colorado-headquartered Ardent Mills has inaugurated its ultramodern Port Redwing Mill in Gibsonton, Florida, which delivers real-time near-infrared analysis, automation enhancements and bolstered food safety capabilities.

The 150,000-square foot mill encompasses a mill, grain storage elevator and cleaning house, along with admin, packing, warehouse and storage facilities, with the ability to produce up to 1.75 million pounds (790 million kilogrammes) of flour each day. The high-tech facility has been designed to will strengthen the company’s supply chain agility, and increase efficiency and product consistency.

Competitive edge

“The ability to deliver safe, consistent products to our customers – day in and day out – serves as our greatest competitive advantage,” said Steve Neely plant manager of Port Redwing.

“Harnessing data-powered technology, deeply rooted industry expertise and people-first practices, Port Redwing realises our vision to be the trusted partner and meet our customers’ evolving needs.”

The mill is aligned to the flour miller and ingredient company’s commitment to transform how the world is nourished, specifically with plant-based innovations.

Ardent employs more than 100 certified millers and operates more than 40 locations (in the US, Canada and Puerto Rico) that specialise in flour, quinoa, pulses, and organic and gluten-free products. Port Redwing will focus on producing all-purpose, whole-wheat, high-gluten cake and bread flours.

Notable capacities of the mill include:

Real-time data analysis and automation, such as an industry-first near-infrared grain analysis and automatic, high-speed packaging lines.
Rapid line intervention and issue management, which allows for the production line to be stopped, assessed and, if needed, corrected with minimal downtime.
Bolstered onsite storage capacity of up to 4.1 million bushels, critical in managing sudden supply chain shifts or in case of a natural disaster.

Proud Tampa native

“For five decades, Ardent Mills has enjoyed the privilege of being a part of the Tampa community and it’s been amazing to see the city grow and change,” said Dan Dye, CEO of Ardent Mills.

“We look forward to continuing to serve our customers and this robust community through our brand new, state-of-the-art Port Redwing Mill. This mill is a testament to our commitment to transform how the world is nourished and drive innovation across plant-based ingredients.”