Bob Moore, the esteemed founder of Bob’s Red Mill and a prominent figure in the natural foods industry, has died at the age of 94. Moore, who passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, February 10, 2024, is celebrated for his indelible impact on the health food sector and his unwavering commitment to whole grains and natural ingredients.
Founded in 1978 by Bob Moore and his wife Charlee, Bob’s Red Mill has grown from a humble mission to promote whole grains to a global brand that champions the benefits of natural, unprocessed foods.
At the core of Bob’s Red Mill is its unwavering commitment to quality and health. Offering a vast array of products, from stone-ground flours and cereals to baking mixes and grains, the company caters to a diverse range of dietary needs, including gluten-free, organic, and non-GMO options. What sets Bob’s Red Mill apart is its dedication to traditional milling techniques, which preserve the nutrients and flavor of whole grains.
The company’s journey began when Bob Moore, inspired by a book about old stone-grinding flour mills, decided to turn his passion for healthy eating into a business. The Moores purchased a mill in Oregon and began their adventure, which quickly grew from a local operation to a trusted international brand. Today, Bob’s Red Mill products line the shelves of health food stores and supermarkets in over 70 countries, bringing the goodness of whole grains to tables around the world.
One of the pivotal moments in the company’s history was in 2010 when Bob Moore established an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP), effectively giving the employees ownership of the company. This decision underscored Moore’s belief in his workforce and his desire to ensure the company’s legacy of integrity and quality. The ESOP not only motivated employees but also instilled a deep sense of pride and responsibility towards the company’s mission.
Bob’s Red Mill’s impact extends beyond the food industry. The Moores have been generous benefactors to nutritional health education, making significant donations to Oregon universities to fund research and programs in whole grain foods, nutrition, and preventive health. The Moore Family Center for Whole Grain Foods, Nutrition, and Preventive Health at Oregon State University is a testament to their commitment to public well-being.
As Bob’s Red Mill continues to thrive, it remains a beacon of sustainability, health, and innovation. The company’s success story is not just about whole grains; it’s about a vision that champions the well-being of its customers, employees, and the planet. Bob’s Red Mill stands as a testament to the power of good food to bring people together and foster a healthier world.
Bob leaves behind three children, nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren in addition to a legacy of innovation and generosity.
