Columbia Grain agrees to buy portion of Montana Specialty Mills

Montana Specialty Mills has originated canola, mustard seeds and other agricultural products from farmers in Montana to produce organic edible oils and mustard products that it sells across the United States.

PORTLAND, ORE. — Columbia Grain Inc. will enter the crushing and refining business of edible oil, including organic and non-G.M.O./non-bioengineered canola oil, after agreeing to purchase a portion of ownership interest of Montana Specialty Mills, L.L.C.

Based in Great Falls, Mont., Montana Specialty Mills has originated canola, mustard seeds and other agricultural products from farmers in Montana to produce organic edible oils and mustard products that it sells across the United States. The company plans to construct an oilseed crushing facility in Great Falls in 2017 to meet growing demand for organic and non-bioengineered food products. The facility will have a crushing capacity of 182 tons per day and a refining capacity of 60 tons per day.

The origination and storage capabilities of Columbia Grain, Inc. will allow Montana Specialty Mills to secure a stable supply of canola and other crops. The agreement also will allow Columbia Grain, Inc., based in Portland and a subsidiary of Marubeni Corp., to use its grain elevators more efficiently.