We are thrilled to introduce the Organic Voices community to the Painterland Sisters! Meet Stephanie and Hayley Painter, the dynamic duo behind Painterland Sisters! Growing up on their 4th generation organic regenerative dairy farm in Northern PA, they’ve always dreamed of connecting consumers with the source of their food. In 2022, they launched their delicious organic skyr yogurt, crafted with milk from their family farm. Their mission? To restore the health of our land, communities, and people through sustainable farming practices. Learn more about their inspiring journey and why choosing organic matters
Name: Stephanie and Hayley Painter
Company Name: Painterland Sisters
Location: Westfield, PA
1) Tell us the story of your organic brand! What is the background history of the brand?
We are Stephanie and Hayley Painter, two sisters who have always dreamed of bringing light to our family’s 4th generation organic regenerative dairy farm in the rolling hills of Northern Pennsylvania.
We sought out to craft an organic, nutrient-dense dairy product, using milk from our farm and the other farms in our area. We identified a gap in the market: organic skyr yogurt. Painterland Sisters sold its first, simply yummy, cup of yogurt in 2022. Our mission is to connect consumers with the direct source of their food while restoring the health of the land, communities, and people by using regenerative organic agriculture practices.
2) Why did you choose to create a certified organic product?
Growing up on an organic dairy farm, we have always known the importance of organic farming. We practice organic regenerative farming that is good for Mother Earth and everything that inhabits it. By creating a certified organic product, we prioritize using ingredients grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, promoting healthier ecosystems, and supporting farmers who share our aligned vision for a greener, more sustainable future for future generations to come. With each spoonful of our organic skyr yogurt, you’re not just enjoying a delicious snack – you’re joining us in our mission to nurture the well-being of yourself and Mother Earth while supporting organic dairy farmers.
3) How long has your brand been certified organic?
Painterland Farms, our family farm, has been organic since 2001. Our brand, Painterland Sisters has been organic since our launch and into our first sale of organic dairy yogurt in 2022.
4) Is it difficult to source certified organic ingredients?
We are lucky to be in a time when our country and our communities are prioritizing and recognizing the importance of organic fruits and dairy. Because of this, we’ve been able to source organic ingredients for our skyr.
It is so fun to be a part of the organic movement bringing more awareness to the quality, sustainability, and longevity of empowering organic agriculture.
5) What myth would you like to bust about being an organic food pioneer or the organic industry as a whole?
We’re passionate about crafting delicious products that not only meet the highest organic standards but also provide the highest level of nutrient density and always deliver an exceptional taste experience. Our commitment to organic practices doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or quality. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.
By choosing organic ingredients and following sustainable farming methods, we ensure that our skyr yogurt is bursting with the wholesome goodness of nature. From the creamy texture to the rich, tangy flavor, every spoonful of our yogurt reflects our dedication to organic excellence.
So, next time you enjoy a spoonful of our organic skyr yogurt, remember that you’re not just indulging in a healthy treat – you’re also debunking the myth that organic food can’t be delicious and highly nutritious!
6) What is the biggest challenge you face as an organic pioneer?
One of the biggest challenges we face as organic pioneers is educating consumers about the importance of organic farming, and what it means for their bodies, Mother Earth, and generations to come. As farmers ourselves, we understand the symbiotic relationship existing between land and animals, and what it means for the yogurt we create. We are faced with the challenge of educating consumers who may be unfamiliar with sustainable farming practices such as organic farming and the importance of knowing your farmer.
We address this challenge by educating consumers through our social media content, where we pull back the curtain on organic farming and show our first-hand perspective on the importance of caring for our land and animals. This allows us to connect consumers directly with the farmers.
We also dive into our community, where have the opportunity to speak at local events about our farming practices and how they are crucial to nutrition for our bodies and sustaining Mother Earth for generations to come.
7) Where do you see organic food, farming, and products in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, we will see an increased desire from consumers to truly understand the source of their food, along with a heightened interest in organic farming and a desire to connect with farmers and the stewards of agriculture.
With access to endless information, consumers are more eager than ever to learn about their food. We expect to see this grow as consumers become increasingly aware of the benefits of organic farming, the importance of supporting sustainable agriculture, and the increased interest in just feeling a connection with the farming lifestyle.
8) What advice would you give to a younger generation of entrepreneurs looking to get into the organic industry?
The organic industry can be challenging and unpredictable, with factors such as weather conditions, market fluctuations, and regulatory changes impacting your business. Cultivate adaptability and resilience to navigate these challenges and pivot when necessary. Stay flexible and open-minded, and be willing to learn from setbacks and failures.
Networking is crucial in the organic industry, whether it’s connecting with fellow farmers, suppliers, distributors, or consumers. Attend organic farming conferences, trade shows, and networking events to meet like-minded individuals and build relationships within the industry. Collaborating with others can open up opportunities for partnerships, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.
Find Painterland Sisters website here
Painterland Sister’s Social media channels
