Aaron Anker

Mainebiz goes to Hiram to find out how clusters and other healthy treats are made at the craft food manufacturer.

The Maine Food Producer Showcase & Golden Fork Awards will be held at Brick South on Thompson's Point on Thursday, Oct. 24.

More than 64,000 visitors attended the event in Unity last weekend. That total is the third-highest since the fair began in 1977.

Hiram-based Grandy Organics will use a $171,219 grant to install an energy-efficient HVAC system, stoves and a dishwasher in a project expected to save $16,465 annually.  

Tuesday's event focused on actions that companies can take to navigate the triple bottom line of people, profit and planet.

Hiram-based GrandyOats has changed its name to Grandy Organics, which is now run by CEO Aaron Anker after buying out long-time partner and COO Nat Peirce.

The emergency loan program started last year with initial funding of $349 million, but in two weeks the money was gone. Businesses and banks had to scramble and get what they could. The PPP has been a lifesaver, but has also taught Mainers to learn and adapt.

GrandyOats, a Hiram-based maker of organic granola and snacks, won a Specialty Food Association sofi award this week for its Turmeric Ginger Cashews snack, a year after it won a sofi for its Coffee Crunch Coconola.