Made in the USA, Rooted in Minnesota, Loved by Backyard Flocks
- Annie
- Dec 17, 2025
- 2 min read

If you’ve been around here for a while, you already know I love keeping things simple, natural and backed by science (and making sure the coop stays a whole lot fresher than my barn boots ha)!
But something you might not know, Strong Animals isn’t just a brand I talk about… it’s part of my family’s story.
A Minnesota Business with Deep Roots
Ralco, the parent company of Strong Animals Chicken Essentials, was founded on April 21, 1971, in Marshall, Minnesota. And the person who started it? My Grandpa Bob.
He built the company on the belief that natural ingredients and good science could transform livestock and poultry health. A man far beyond his time in the 1970s. Later on, my mom and dad took the reins and continued growing Ralco with that same heart and drive.
Today, Ralco is still family owned by my mom, brother and sister-in-law, so when I say this work is close to home, I really mean it! Our family is committed to keeping our values, integrity, and passion for doing things the right way at the core of our culture and passing that commitment on to every employee.
Still Made in Marshall, Minnesota 54 Years Later
Even as the company has grown, everything still happens in Marshall. Our production facilities include a feed mill style mixing plant, a liquid plant (where Chicken E-lixir gets its magic) and our distribution center where all your orders take flight and get packaged.
Every Strong Animals product is blended, packaged and shipped by a dedicated team who takes great pride in their work. Rooted in small town mid-western values, we believe craftsmanship, accountability and care show up in everything we do.
Where it All Begins: The Lab
Before any product reaches a store shelf, it begins with our team of poultry nutritionists and biochemical engineers who specialize in using plant extracts and essential oils to support healthy flocks. They study the real-world challenges backyard flock owners face, from digestive health, heat stress and molting to bedding odor and egg quality, to design natural solutions that help flocks thrive.
They’re like the behind-the-scenes chicken superheroes you never knew your coop needed!

A New Little Logo with a Big Meaning
Soon, you’ll spot a “Made in the USA” badge on our Strong Animals package. It’s a small symbol with a big message:
Every scoop, sprinkle and bottle was proudly made right here in Minnesota, by a family-owned company that cares about your flock as much as you do.

From my family to yours… thanks for trusting us to help keep your chickens healthy, happy and thriving!
Until next time,
The Wing Lady

