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Our mission
At Bird Dog Baking, we think it’s time to invite grains to the farm-to-table movement.
Our region is one of the most crop-diverse in the US, and we are committed to sourcing as many of our grains from local farmers as we can. We deeply value the passionate and hard-working families who protect and heal our lands by using regenerative and ethical practices on their farms. We know that healthy soil ecosystems grow the most nutrient-dense foods and we are thrilled to bring those foods to you.
Our breads are made with 100% regionally grown, organic, stone milled flour. We slow-ferment all of our breads naturally with sourdough culture to coax out the most flavor and the most nutrition. Our bakery aims to support our farmers by using a wide range of grains - supporting the entire growing season and the many crops it takes to build soil health.
Our pastries are designed to be both tasty and sustaining. All are made with at least 50% whole grains and also highlight a diversity of grains. We partner with Calder Dairy and local egg farmers to stay true to our commitment to animal welfare. We reach for alternative sweeteners like local maple and honey whenever possible. Our pastries change with the seasons and highlight produce from local growers using regenerative practices.
OUR STORY
We met in San Francisco while working at Josey Baker Bread, honing our passion for all things sourdough. There, we gained an immense respect for baking using traditional, natural methods with long, slow fermentation. We grew our knowledge and dedication for whole grains and the reward of stone milling those grains daily. After four years with Josey, we decided we were ready to strike out on our own adventure.
Bird Dog Baking is a testament to our passion for the craft of baking, coupled with the sense of responsibility to source locally, ethically and sustainably. We work closely with farmers who value soil health and who aim to create a complete, diverse, and thriving ecosystem which ensures the health and longevity of Michigan’s beautiful landscapes. At Bird Dog, we strive to turn better ingredients into better food to strengthen and nourish our community.
We are honored to be involved with the Artisan Grain Collaborative, a mighty and passionate group of grain-minded people working to build up our regional grainshed. AGC brings together people from all across the grain chain (breeders, agronomists, farmers, bakers, brewers/distillers, and enthusiasts) and spreads the important message that local food systems are vital to both environmental health and community strength and resilience.