Superstition Farm in east Mesa is producing products that will be sold at Whole Foods Market in north Scottsdale

- Angelique Soenarie, The Republic/azcentral.com

WHAT'S NEW?

The farm's homemade ice cream debuts in first quarter 2009, said Casey Stechnij, who runs his family's long-time dairy business. About 10 percent of produce and goods sold at Whole Foods Market store is from local businesses. Butter and cheese made at the farm are soon to follow.

HOW DID IT HAPPEN?

Stechnij said he was invited to a tasting at the north Scottsdale store. "They loved it and want to stock us," he said. So far, his herb cheese and butter have been featured at a Scottsdale restaurant that relies on local independent businesses for its ingredients.

WHAT'S NEXT?

"Getting approved is the easy part," Stechnij said, adding that he must now produce proof of insurance, UPC codes and ingredient lists for the national chain.

TOP-SELLING FLAVORS?

Favorites are: vanilla batter cake, Oreo mint and cotton candy.

OTHER OFFERINGS?

Superstition Farm, a three-generation family business also offers farm tours, Mooster's Mootique and ice cream at Udder Delights in Gilbert, near Val Vista Drive and Warner Road. In recent years, the farm diversified its main business as result of urban encroachment. The Stechnij family oversees 1,000 cows and each one produces more than 15 gallons daily.