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About Us

Our History

Founded in 1973 by Phillip J. Sass during a global mustard shortage, Wisconsin Spice, Inc. began operations in an abandoned 19th-century feed mill and has since become a leading global force in the mustard industry. From its early focus on milling ground mustard and mustard flour for the sausage industry, the company expanded in 1975 to produce prepared mustard, directly competing with renowned international brands. In 1985, it relocated to a modern 130,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility, becoming one of the few manufacturers capable of producing both dry-milled and prepared mustard under one roof while serving industrial ingredients, foodservice, and retail channels.

Under second-generation leadership, Wisconsin Spice continued its growth with the 2018 opening of the Phillip J. Sass Technical Center for research, development, and corporate functions, followed by the 2021 acquisition of its largest Canadian supplier, Besco Grain, Ltd., achieving greater vertical integration and operational efficiency. Today, the company is the world’s largest mustard seed miller, processing over 40 million pounds annually and supplying mustard products to more than 35 countries, with ongoing investments aimed at expanding capacity and delivering added value to customers worldwide.

1973

Phillip Sass founded Wisconsin Spice, Inc. in 1973, amidst a global mustard shortage.

1975

Prepared mustard milling was added to the company’s capabilities. Wisconsin Spice was one of only two mustard manufacturers to produce both dry-milled and prepared mustard.

1985

Sass moved Wisconsin Spice from its downtown location to Berlin’s South Industrial Park.

1985 – 2013

Real estate included with the move to Berlin’s South Industrial Park allowed Sass to execute aggressive growth plans. From 1985 to 2013, Wisconsin Spice expanded its facilities 10 times.

1990’s

Throughout the 90’s, Wisconsin Spice established itself as the leading supplier of industrial dry-milled and prepared mustard ingredients to the food industry.

1997

Wisconsin Spice forged a partnership with a UK food distributor. This was the first of many global business partnerships.

2008

Wisconsin Spice survived another global mustard shortage, outlasting its competitors and setting the stage for future generations.

2013

Wisconsin Spice completed its 10th facility expansion which was dedicated to retail and foodservice packaging.

2016

Allen Sass and Caroline Sass-Blustin assumed second-generation leadership roles.

2018

Wisconsin Spice opened a second facility – the Phillip J. Sass Technical Center.

2020

Wisconsin Spice expands by 15K sq. ft., fueling growth and future upgrades; invests in PC packaging line.

2021

Wisconsin Spice acquires its largest mustard seed supplier – Besco Grain, Ltd. (Canada)

Today

Wisconsin Spice, Inc. continues to focus on investing in growth opportunities.

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Our Purpose & Values

We elevate food by crafting exceptional mustard products through trusted partnerships.

Customer Partnership

We work side by side with customers to create tailored solutions that move their businesses forward.

Quality Without Compromise

From seed to finished ingredient, quality and food safety guide every decision.

Integrity & Accountability

We honor our commitments to growers, customers, employees, and our community.

Continuous Improvement

We embrace innovation and data-driven thinking to stay at the forefront of our industry.

Community Stewardship

We reinvest in the communities where we live and work.

Promoting The Welfare Of Others

The global food industry has become well acquainted with Wisconsin Spice, Inc.’s unwavering dedication to quality, customer service, and its unquenchable thirst for collaboration and lasting partnerships. Wisconsin Spice’s spirit of partnership extends beyond business, driving our philanthropic efforts to make a meaningful difference in our community.

Holiday Gift Giving Tree for the Boys & Girls Club

Staying at the Forefront of Our Industry

The ability to consistently manufacture safe, quality products is paramount in establishing a long-term partnership.

As proof of its commitment to food safety and quality, Wisconsin Spice, Inc. is proud to be GFSI accredited through the FSSC 22000 audit protocol. For a copy of Wisconsin Spice, Inc.’s FSSC 22000 certificate, please contact the technical department.

Wisconsin Spice, Inc. prepared mustard and retail co-pack & private label brochure mockup

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Wisconsin Spice is the world’s premier manufacturer of mustard solutions, processing millions of pounds of mustard seed each year for food brands across the globe. As a family-owned company rooted in Berlin, Wisconsin, we pair uncompromising quality and food safety with collaborative partnerships that help our customers grow.