Freeze Dried Ohio opens downtown

Freeze Dried Ohio, a start-up freeze-dried foods company specializing in homemade candies and produce, Friday announced it is establishing its kitchen in downtown Tiffin in partnership with the Renaissance of Tiffin at 129 S. Washington St. A news release from Tiffin-Seneca Economic Partnership said a machine was installed and has been operating since early April, and products are being sold at Molyet's Farm Market and JAM's Monthly Markets. Owners Mary and Jeremy Franks grew up in Tiffin, graduated from Columbian, got married, and then Jeremy served in the Marine Corps, the release said. After he was discharged, Mary attended Heidelberg University and then ran two other small businesses out of her home. "The pair purchased a freeze-dried machine for their family and fell in love with how the process affects the flavor," the release said. "We are so excited to make this available in Tiffin and northwest Ohio," Mary said in the release. "The freeze-dried process makes food super light and crispy, and it enhances the flavor. We plan on sourcing local produce as much as possible, and we can't wait for people to try our homemade caramel and peanut butter puffs, too." The Franks were assisted by the Small Business Development Center at Terra State Community College, which provided free certified small business counseling. They also entered a partnership with Dave and Amber Spridgeon of the Renaissance of Tiffin to use their kitchen space to get their small business off the ground. "We believe this is a project our whole family can participate in, and we want to add to the local food movement in Tiffin," Jeremy said. "It's amazing to see the entrepreneurship in this community continuing to flourish and successful businesses helping new ones get started," said Mayor Aaron Montz. "It's this spirit of connection and support which makes us unique. We wish them all the best." For more information, visit www.facebook.com/FreezeDriedOhio.