Perdue Farms announced this week it will acquire Natural Food Holdings, including the popular Niman Ranch brand of meat products.

“This represents the next chapter in our growth through premium proteins and trusted brands,” said Perdue Farms Chairman Jim Perdue. “The Niman Ranch brand continues our commitment to raising animals without antibiotics or artificial growth stimulants, and to responsible food and agriculture.”

Niman Ranch began in the early 1970s on a small ranch in California, and has grown to include more than 700 independent family farmers and ranchers, across the country. The brand covers a complete line of pork, beef, lamb, cage-free eggs and a variety of smoked and cured meats.

“With the long, family-owned heritage of our company, we understand and respect what Niman Ranch represents,” Perdue said. “All Niman Ranch livestock will continue to be raised by the same small family farmers and ranchers, following the same protocols, and with the same focus on sustainability.”

Through the acquisition, Perdue also acquired the Prairie Grove brand and the SiouxPreme Packing plants in Sioux City and Sioux Center, Iowa.

“We are excited to become part of Perdue,” said Jeff Swain, Natural Food Holdings’ CEO. “With Perdue being a family-owned business and the Perdue commitment to responsible food and agriculture, it was the perfect fit to help us continue to grow and prosper while staying true to our brand’s mission.”

 “The promise of each of the brands, our relationship with family farmers and the value we bring to customers and consumers will not change,” said Day. “Through this merger, we’ll learn from each other to get better at everything we do.”

 The transaction is expected to close soon. Financial details were not disclosed.