Montana’s Agricultural Heritage

Montana enjoys a rich agricultural heritage. Ranching and farming have always been an important part of the state’s economy. Livestock and crop production together contribute close to two billion dollars to Montana’s economy each year.

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What’s For Dinner?
Food That Comes From Montana

Montana's food products are winning the trust of consumers around the world. Montana's clean environment and its reputation for hard-working, honest people have increased its visibility among shoppers looking for healthful, hearty foods.

More producers are now supplying distinctive products for specific markets. Organic and gourmet foods are gaining popularity among both producers and consumers. A commitment to high-quality specialty products helps people recognize that Montana-made foods are some of the best of their kind.

A diverse climate and fertile soils help Montana farmers and ranchers produce many different food products. While beef and wheat are the two largest commodities, other products also play important roles, including cherries, sugar beets, and sunflowers. (Learn more about Montana's crops >>)

Value-Added Foods

Montana’s food processing industry is a major part of the agricultural sector. Processed foods are called value-added products. This means taking a raw product, like wheat, and turning it into something worth more. For example, a bushel of wheat might be worth a few dollars as grain, more as flour, and much more after it is baked into bread.

Other Montana-made food products include ice cream, beer, seasonings, baked goods and mixes, meat snacks, boxed beef and pork, candy, smoked fish, pizza crusts, pasta, cooking oils, breakfast cereals, jams, and sauces. Montana crops are also used to make feed for farm animals, so people and animals benefit from what grows here.