Del Real Foods
Back in 1957, a young entrepreneur named Jesus Cardenas journeyed from his home in Jalisco, Mexico to the farmlands of southern California. With his wife, Luz, their children, and his American dream of starting his own family farm, Jesus traded in his bucket of tools for a pig. And Del Real Foods was born.
Today, Del Real Foods makes tamales, carnitas, salsas, and other recipes inspired by the Cardenas’ native Jalisco—all created by hand with fresh ingredients and nothing artificial. Delicious, slow-cooked meats and homemade sauces that taste like you cooked them yourself are now available at your local grocery store and ready to serve in minutes.
Ace In The Bowl Salsa
Created by Susan Witt for a family gathering, Ace in the Bowl Salsa has a unique flavor that has delighted people for over 20 years. Susan began selling her products in 2012. With Mild, Medium, and Hot varieties, this all-natural condiment is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a little spice in their life.
Susan appreciates how the MIO Coalition keeps everyone informed about shows and demonstrations. Susan places high value on the relationships and camaraderie that come with an MIO membership. She appreciates how the MIO Coalition encourages folks to buy local and support the state economy for generations to come.
Amelia Creamery
Tony Barros’s love of French yogurt, helped launch a family business, which he named after his granddaughter. The Oklahoma-based company now makes a French-style yogurt with unique flavor profiles by using only the highest-quality ingredients, creating a product unlike any other in the marketplace.
As artisans, the family embraced the mentorship of MIO Coalition members, promoting their brand and build awareness. The company is dedicated to giving back to others and now guides new members towards success.
Miller Pecan Company
Jared Miller remembers picking pecans with his father, Len, when he was 12 years old. He and his brother, Jared, have expanded the family business by adding harvesting facilities and new retail products. As one of the few US producers to manage every step of the process, from planting, harvesting, and cleaning to shelling and marketing, their freshness is unbeatable.
A young company, the Miller family took advantage of working with established businesses in the MIO Coalition and became the 2017 Pecan Grower of the year. As their company expands, so do the jobs they offer, improving the economy and the lives of their employees.
Mountain View Meats
Cliff and Betty Phelps began this family business in the 1970s as a wholesale packing plant. The company found its niche in expanding to sausage products, particularly their signature hot links. The company grew to a full Hot Link, Smoked Meat, and Beef and Pork Distribution Center.
Now run by the second and third generations, including Courtney Phelps-Talbot, the company still provides its popular family recipes. Today, Mountain View Meats is a regional distributor beyond Oklahoma. The financial impact on the state is undeniable. Employees have stayed with the company for decades, and the expanded sales contribute to the state economy.
