Photos Provided By: Pecana
Photography: Red Riding Hood Productions
Kortney, as a third‑generation pecan farmer, how has your family’s history shaped the values and vision behind Pecana?
Growing up in the middle of a pecan orchard taught me everything about hard work and faith. Farming isn’t glamorous, its long days, unpredictable weather, and trusting that what you plant will grow. That connection between labor and faith shaped my values and ultimately Pecana’s mission. I want Pecana to be product farmers are proud of, because their dedication paved the way for something innovative like this to exist.
Your farm began in New Mexico in the ’80s and now provides pecans worldwide. What were the biggest turning points in that growth?
The biggest turning point happened when I was 13. My father was able to purchase the processing facility that had been buying all of our pecans. Overnight, we became not only one of the largest pecan growers but also a major player in shelling and manufacturing. We were fully vertically integrated. Even as a child, I knew my life would be tied to overseeing these businesses and carrying out my father’s vision.
You spent 10 years perfecting this nut milk. What challenges and breakthroughs defined that process?
There were so many challenges, but “scaling” was the hardest. In my kitchen, everything was different, the ingredients, the packaging, even the shelf life. Pecana used to be refrigerated and lasted only 17 days. I had no idea how to take it from a home recipe to mass grocery production. You fall a million times, and you get up a million and one. That’s really the story of Pecana.
You describe pecans as naturally rich and buttery. What makes them such a powerful and unique base for non‑dairy milk?
Pecans are naturally high in healthy fats, which is why Pecana is so creamy without gums or inflammatory oils. The richness comes straight from the nut itself.
Why was it important for Pecana to use organic pecans and avoid seed oils, carrageenan, gluten, and artificial flavors?
Because it’s how I live. My health changed dramatically when I removed seed oils and unnecessary additives from my diet. When your energy improves, your mood lifts, and your body feels lighter, you realize how much those ingredients were holding you back. I could never sell something that contributes to the problem in our food system. I believe it’s my calling to be part of the solution.
How do you choose and develop the premium flavor enhancers that complement your pecan milk?
Honestly, I’ve eaten pecans my whole life, sweet, savory, and everything in between. I just know what pairs well and what brings out the best in their natural flavor. I guess that makes me the “pecan queen.” Pecana emphasizes healthy bodies, happy farmers, and a clean Earth.
How do you bring that mission to life in your manufacturing process?
We stay true to our mission by sourcing from our organic family farms and maintaining full traceability. I know exactly where our pecans come from, who grows them, and how they’re handled.
Can you walk us through the journey of your pecans and the “village” it takes to produce such a high‑quality product?
It truly takes a village. I’ve been blessed with a team that has been with me since the beginning, people who believed in Pecana even when I was rebuilding my life and giving up alcohol to bring this vision forward. Their support means everything. Our pecans are grown on my family’s organic farm, then shipped to our shelling plant in central Texas, where they’re turned into pecan paste. From there, the paste goes to our co‑manufacturer, where it’s blended with the remaining ingredients to become Pecana.
What family traditions or values continue to guide your work and decision‑making as Pecana grows?
I rely heavily on gut intuition, shaped by both beautiful and traumatic experiences. I understand what consumers want because I’m the target shopper myself. My grandfather taught me to always keep employees and customers at the forefront, and that value guides me every day. Leading with gratitude is something I’m excited to carry forward.
As Pecana expands, what new products, goals, or innovations are you most excited to introduce?
