Local Roots, Global Reach: The Impact of Advanced Sunflower on the Sunflower Industry

Imagine yourself at a baseball game, the sun shining down, and you’re eating a bag of delicious sunflower seeds. This is an experience many of us have had, but did you know those seeds are likely grown and made right here in South Dakota? Advanced Sunflower, located in Huron, has become a key player in the sunflower industry since moving to the state in 2011. 

Keeping their process local is a priority at Advanced Sunflower. “We buy directly from the farmer,” says Jarrid Graff, the general manager. This direct relationship with local growers ensures that only the best sunflower seeds make it to their products. Most of their sunflowers come from South Dakota, which has been the top producer in the country for the past few years. 

Advanced Sunflower’s vision is to continue strengthening existing relationships with local farmers and customers while expanding their reach internationally. The company takes pride in its close working relationships with growers in the Midwest and customers across the United States and worldwide. Their state-of-the-art processing facilities in Huron and Redfield have enabled them to meet higher production levels while keeping costs down, allowing them to offer customers quality seeds at affordable prices. 

Danny Dale, the owner, shares why they chose South Dakota. “We wanted to get a little closer to the best quality sunflower seeds in the United States which are grown here in South Dakota.” He appreciates the state’s support for businesses. “There’s so many jobs here and that’s a direct result of South Dakota doing a good job on economic development. The Governor’s Office has helped us get our rail line put in place so we are in business shipping to Mexico right out of Huron.” 

With 55 employees across four locations, Advanced Sunflower fosters a strong sense of community. The company processes sunflowers from approximately 75,000 acres annually. “It is so cool to know that a little town of Huron in South Dakota can have such an impact on people from all over the world,” said Administrative Assistant Kayla Neuharth. “They love our seeds, they love our products, and that speaks volumes.” 

Cesar Garcia Arevalo, Export Sale and Warehouse Manager, takes pride in seeing their products in international markets. “When I go and visit customers and their warehouses and I see our Advanced Sunflower logo, product of the USA in their warehouse in Mexican markets, it’s a satisfying feeling knowing that we’re distributing products all over the world.” The company’s reach extends globally, with exports to Europe, Mexico, Canada, the Middle East, and South Korea. 

Advanced Sunflower’s commitment to quality is reflected in their certifications from the Safe Quality Food Institute (SQF) and Kosher certification. They are proud to offer non-GMO and gluten-free products, catering to various consumer needs. 

So next time you enjoy sunflower seeds at a game or as a snack, remember that they might just be coming from the heart of South Dakota, where Advanced Sunflower is turning locally grown seeds into globally enjoyed products!