Cargill-CHS venture Ardent Mills begins operationsNew flour mixing company Ardent Mills announced Thursday it has begun production with operations supported by 40 mills, three bakery mix facilities and a specialty bakery.

The company, headquartered in Denver, combines operations of ConAgra Mills and Horizon Milling, a Cargill-CHS joint venture, which was announced last year. Ardent Mills representatives said the company will operate independently of the parent companies.

According to the company, ConAgra Foods and Cargill each own a 44 percent of Ardent Mills, with CHS owning a 12 percent.