Pop to it!

indulge in popcorn made locally in nd

Whether it’s at a movie theater, baseball game or simply sitting around at home, I always have a big bag of popcorn in hand. Luckily for me, I was able to find a new source for my cravings in a delicious bag of Colorado Jack Popcorn. Sitting down with the owners Kim and Brian Engstrom and Cheryl and Kurt Bollingberg, I’m learning the true story of how the company came to be and what North Dakota residents can look forward to in the company’s bright future.

This company’s story strangely did not begin with popcorn, but with beans. Kurt Bollingberg and Brian Engstrom, who are both avid farmers, purchased Jack’s Bean processing plant in Holyoke, Colorado, where they had the dream to package dry beans to sell in stores. They also had raw popcorn kernels, the majority of which were sold to movie theaters in Mexico. They would bring these kernels home to make popcorn for friends and family. The couples noticed that the popcorn produced from these kernels was especially large and delicious. With a helping hand from Golden Plains Frozen Foods, the company took off and began to make prepackaged, flavored popcorn for everyone to enjoy.

Today it is clear to see where Colorado Jack Popcorn gets its name. The seed is supplied to farmers in Colorado who grow the kernels. The company keeps the “Jack” name to pay tribute to its beginning as part of Jack’s Bean Company which has been in operation since 1932. After the kernels are harvested, the popcorn is popped and packaged in Leeds, North Dakota, where it is made into a variety of flavors including caramel, white cheddar, white cheddar and jalapeño, sea salt and butter, and the Colorado mix. The company is involved in every aspect of creating this delectable snack from the field to the store shelf, which truly sets it apart from other snack food companies with their name in the popcorn game.

What’s next for this small popcorn company?

Within the next few months, Colorado Jack will open a new processing plant in Valley City, North Dakota. Looking to better their community, the owners have partnered with the Open Door Center which will give jobs to residents with disabilities or special needs right here in North Dakota. The company also continues to be active with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and takes part in Giving Hearts Day. The company, who has been named the Pride of Dakota’s “Rookie Go-Getter of the Year” for 2016 will continue to strive not only to make great products but also great communities around the state.

Looking to get your hands on a bag of Colorado Jack? The delectable snack food can be found in grocery and convenience stores as well as purchased online directly from the Colorado Jack website. Colorado Jack is also the official popcorn of the FM Redhawks and is sold every game night. Special event in your life on the horizon?

The Colorado Jack team specializes in bringing popcorn to your wedding reception, baby shower, graduation and other exciting events you may have. Looking to put on a fundraiser? Colorado Jack can help with that as well. Simply visit their website for more information and to take a peek at the delicious flavors offered. My favorite so far is the white cheddar and jalapeño but I look forward to trying them all.

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit coloradojackpopcorn.com.