Product Spotlight: Gedney Foods

Who remembers eating almost an entire jar of pickles as a kid? I mean, pickles are technically a fruit, right? Actually, pickles are both a fruit and a vegetable, according to the U.S. Supreme Court. Because they have seeds, pickles are technically a “fruit of the vine.” However, since they’re made from cucumbers, they’re commonly considered a vegetable.

Households across the U.S. love pickles. In fact, Americans consume approximately 20 billion pickles every year. For this blog, BOB pays homage to an iconic Minnesota pickle brand — Gedney Foods. Founded in 1880, Gedney has become one of America’s most successful pickle producers, making not only their own brand but also pickles for Del Monte and Cain’s.

BOB sat down with Carl Tuttle, General Manager at Gedney Foods, to learn more about their legendary pickles.

Tell us a little bit about how the pickle industry has evolved over the years.

For most of the last century, pickle companies were small and regional, located close to cucumber sources. Industry consolidation in the 1970s and 80s reduced the number of small, regional companies down to two — with Gedney remaining one of them. Recently, the rise of craft food culture has inspired new small pickle makers, mirroring the growth of the craft beer industry.

How do you think the industry will change in years to come?

We’ll see more exciting flavors, more organic options, more focus on clean labels, and a stronger emphasis on premium packaging — especially in glass.

Can you give us some insight into the different types of pickles you sell and how you choose these varieties?

We’re unique in that while most of the country buys spear pickles, Minnesotans love baby pickles. Gedney Foods leads that category. We also produce all types of pickles and relishes, including organic varieties.

Who is the mastermind behind your marketing and advertising?

Marketing is a team effort — from outside partners to our own sales staff. We also use the Minnesota State Fair to connect with the community. But honestly, our favorite marketing tool is word of mouth from happy customers.

Why do you choose to package your pickles in glass containers?

Glass is the only packaging that withstands pasteurization, preserves flavor integrity, and delivers a premium look and feel.

Tell us about your State Fair pickle brand and how it started.

The State Fair brand uses award-winning recipes from blue-ribbon winners at the Minnesota State Fair. Launched in the 1980s, it immediately connected with consumers who wanted a nostalgic, local flavor experience.

Are there any interesting pickle traditions you have?

Attending the State Fair and handing out pickle hats has become a tradition. During news coverage, you can always spot a sea of green pickle hats in the crowd!

Do you have any interesting pickle recipes you can share?

From our Picklicious Book:

• 1 jar of Gedney Dill Pickles
• 1 (8 oz) package of softened cream cheese
• 3 packages of thin-sliced deli meat

Spread a thin layer of cream cheese on each slice of meat, wrap a pickle, and chill for one hour. Slice into wheels and enjoy!

Any fun pickle facts to share?

America was named after a pickle peddler — Amerigo Vespucci. He supplied explorers with vitamin C–rich pickled vegetables (especially cucumbers) to prevent scurvy on long voyages.

Okay, give us your best pickle joke.

How does a cucumber become a pickle? It goes through a jarring experience.

So next time you’re at the grocery store, grab a jar of Gedney pickles — but try not to eat the entire jar in one sitting.

Bon appétit!
BOB