The wild pecan, native to North America, is a major nut that thrives from northern Mexico to northern Illinois, with significant growth in Texas, New Mexico, and Georgia. Despite the variety of milk alternatives available, including almond, soy, and oat, pecan milk has not been prominent in the market.
Kortney Chase, from southeastern New Mexico, launched Pecana in late 2023 to introduce pecan milk, leveraging her family's background in pecan farming. Pecana's pecans are sourced from Chase Pecan, established in Artesia, New Mexico, in 1986 and later moved to San Saba, Texas, known as the "Pecan Capital of the World." This region is significant for its historical and cultural importance to Texas, including being declared the state tree in 1919. Chase Pecan, a leading grower with 13,000 acres, including 3,000 organic, specializes in Pawnee and Western Schley pecans, ensuring a steady supply for Pecana. The pecan industry faces challenges from climate change, increasing costs, and labor shortages.
Source: modernfarmer.com