ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI, U.S. — Bunge North America announced on March 6 that it has purchased the assets of Heartland Harvest, Inc., a North American leader in the production of die cut pellets used to make extruded foods.  Financial terms of the acquisition have not been released.

Heartland Harvest produces die cut pellets made of a variety of starches which are then expanded through popping, baking or frying to create extruded food products.  The company has one facility in Kankakee, Illinois, U.S.

"Consumer demand for innovative and healthier foods is growing and HHI ingredients can be used to make better-for-you snacks," said Wade Ellis, general manager, Bunge Milling. "This facility also has the flexibility to use starches such as ancient grains and sweet potatoes as well as corn, rice and potatoes, expanding the product portfolio we can offer our customers."

Bunge expects to keep a majority of the employees currently working at the plant.