The ag tech and dairy food products companies will be provided with mentorship, connections and resources.

The acquisition will expand Lipari Foods’ product offerings, manufacturing capabilities.

Wisconsin produces more cheese than any other state, making more than 3 billion pounds of the savory dairy favorite in 2016 alone, according to the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board.

The factory supplies all of Canada with brands such as Hӓagen-Dazs, Parlour and Drumstick.

Store visitors may get a taste of the company’s Mint Chip ‘n Oreo Cookies milkshake.

Going into 2018, the global dairy industry is looking at a number of challenges. On the commodity side, lower pricing, thanks to an oversupply of skim milk powder, particularly in the European Union (EU), and weakened demand in the fourth quarter certainly have been concerns, said Thomas Bailey, senior dairy analyst for Rabobank, a global cooperative bank.

Emmi Roth could be described as the Apple Inc. of the cheese-making world. Like Apple, especially in its early days, the Fitchburg, Wis. based company is willing to innovate and take risks in its quest to create unique, high-quality products.

The awards will honor fluid milk processors and state/regional organizations for efforts in promoting the consumption of white and chocolate milk via MilkPEP programs.

Sarsam boasts more than three decades of experience in the food industry.

In her new role, she will identify strategic initiatives for the organization and its members.