Ciranda is a 100% employee-owned natural foods company headquartered in Hudson, Wisconsin. The company was founded in 1994 by Hans Friese, originally from Brazil, and his wife, Joan, with a steadfast belief in the superiority of organic practices. The name "Ciranda'' draws from Brazilian culture, symbolizing a folk dance in which a circle of people collectively participates. This emblem exemplifies Ciranda's commitment to working together for the betterment of all. Their vision was to establish a meaningful company that actively participates in the journey while striving to make a living. At the outset, there was no federally mandated organic program in the United States. Hans and Joan embarked on the complex journey of organic certifications and began exporting ingredients from North American farmers to more mature organic markets worldwide.  As the U.S. organic market began to evolve, they recognized an opportunity to contribute to the growth of the North American organic market while simultaneously supporting the global communities they had become deeply connected with. In 2000, Ciranda transitioned from an export-focused model to its current form, primarily operating as an importer. The company's core ingredient portfolio now includes products derived from coconut, palm fruit, cacao, and tapioca. In 2017 Ciranda became employee-owned when the founders transferred ownership to their employees,  implementing an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). Ciranda's mission is centered on creating connections that nourish life. They strive to connect brands with ingredients that ignite positive change, promote well-being, and have a favorable impact on relationships among people and the planet.