Democratically owned & operated by over 1,200 Ontario Dairy Farmers, Gay Lea Foods Co-operative is truly "Born on the Farm".

 

Our story began in 1958 when a group of farmers came together with a common vision – to better the lives of Ontario farming families and co-operatives.

 

Today, we are proud of that heritage as the second largest dairy co-operative in Canada, owned by over 1,200 dairy farmers; since our humble beginning, we have grown to 12 production facilities and distribution centers across Ontario and Quebec.

 

Throughout our history, our growth has come from high quality products and dedication to innovation. Our newest product, Real Coconut Whipped Cream, has quickly become a family favourite as a delicious topping to every dessert.

 

We are always looking to expand Gay Lea’s well-known brands. Our most recent addition, Hewitt's, is one of the oldest family-owned dairies and further adds to the variety of products we offer. From Ivanhoe and Salerno Cheese to Gay Lea and Nordica, our loyal customers know they are buying fresh, natural products that they can trust.

 

And while making great products is important to us, we never forget we have other commitments - Gay Lea Foods is about concern for community. To date, we've raised over $500,000 in support of co-operative development around the globe. We help at home too, through contributions to organizations in rural communities across Ontario.

 

And so, as a co-operative, we have learned the best of working together. From the moment our milk is born on the farm until our products reach the tables of Ontario families, we collaborate – farmers, members, employees and customers – to make Gay Lea Foods what it is today.