Teff, an ancient grain native to the Horn of Africa, has been gaining popularity in the United States in recent years. The grain, known for its high iron content and gluten-free properties, has been catching the attention of health enthusiasts and farmers alike. One such farmer is Tesfa Drar, who has been growing and selling teff in America for several years now.
Who is Tesfa Drar?
Tesfa Drar grew up in Eritrea, where his family farmed teff, a staple crop in the Horn of Africa. He later moved to the United States for college in 1981 and noticed a lack of injera, a teff-based flatbread that is a staple of the Horn of Africa diet. This led him to plant 20 pounds of teff at the University of Minnesota, where he was studying. From there, he gave teff to different colleges and universities for research.
How did he start his business?
After realizing the growing demand for gluten-free and nutrient-dense foods, Tesfa Drar decided to start his own business. He founded Selam Foods, which markets and sells teff online. The company’s website not only provides customers with teff products but also shares recipes for injera and information about the history of teff, one of the oldest domesticated plants in the world.
Where is his business located?
Tesfa Drar’s business, Selam Foods, is located in Minnesota, where the company has its headquarters. However, he also cultivates teff on more than 2,400 hectares of land in Nevada and six other states. His operation in northwestern Nevada is near Winnemucca, a town that is known for its 24-hour casinos as well as a farming community that grows potatoes, alfalfa, wheat, and corn.
How successful is his business now?
Tesfa Drar’s business has been highly successful, and he has become a leading figure in the teff industry in America. According to the University of Nevada-Reno, acreage committed to teff production has exploded in recent years, with the crop now being grown in at least 25 U.S. states. Tesfa Drar’s company, Selam Foods, has been able to capitalize on this growing demand for teff, and his teff products have become increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers.
Conclusion
Tesfa Drar’s story is an inspiring one, and it demonstrates the potential for success in the farming industry in America. With his hard work and dedication, Tesfa Drar has been able to not only bring a beloved food from his home country to America but also help to create a thriving industry around it. As the demand for gluten-free and nutrient-dense foods continues to grow, it is likely that Tesfa Drar and his business will continue to make waves in the teff industry for years to come.
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