Keating Announces $200,000 Worth of Grants for Ocean Spray Cranberries

Submitted by Rep. Bill Keating’s office:

US Rep. Bill Keating, cofounder of the Congressional Cranberry Caucus, announced a total of $200,000 in Department of Agriculture Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) for Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc.

This program assists agricultural producers to expand their businesses by developing new uses for existing products and turning raw materials into value-added products. The funding for Ocean Spray will be used to assist with the costs of producing 100,000 cases of PACt™, a new beverage platform that uses natural cranberry extract while reducing sugar content and caloric value.

“This grant will have many positive effects throughout our community,” said Rep. Keating. “Ocean Spray Cranberries has long been a vital job creator within the region, and this funding will help the company continue to grow and provide both valuable products and economic benefits to Massachusetts.”

“Cranberries represent what is truly unique about American agriculture,” said Randy Papadellis, President & CEO of Ocean Spray Cranberries. “As a farmers’ cooperative, Ocean Spray works tirelessly to develop innovative products that will bring the taste, health, and heritage of cranberries to consumers all over the world. Our Grower-Owners appreciate Congressman Keating’s leadership of the cranberry caucus and his commitment to promoting our industry and the family farms it supports.”