Sitting on the northern edge of the Superior Industrial park sits a large blue and white building. The company that operates there is OMYA, they produce Calcium Carbonate for food and pharmaceuticals. This plant plays a huge role in the lives of almost every human on earth. The calcium carbonate that is in food products and vitamins are processed right here in Superior, Arizona.
Every day 10-12 shipments come into the Superior OMYA plant via truck from the Amboy, California Calcium Carbonate mine. Those shipments are processed through a series of machines to ensure that product meets the each products needs. Once the product is bagged and ready for shipment, it is then sent to food producers and vitamin makers across America. The plant also must maintain its Kosher United Orthodox and Halal certifications to ensure that this product can be used in other products that meet those dietary requirements.
Calcium Carbonate is a product that occurs naturally, formed during the metamorphosis of prehistoric sea life. In some cases calcium carbonate is used in construction materials as well as food and vitamins. The plant in Superior only processes the food grade quality compound. One of the key products that the the mineral is used for is antacids like TUMS. So when that heartburn strikes, you will know that Superior plays a role in soothing that discomfort.
Currently OMYA has around 17 employees. Their employees are committed to the top four values of OMYA: integrity, courtesy, modesty, and perseverance. Local resident, Janeen Duarte is the Packaging and Shipping Manager; she works for the plant manager Jim Morale.
“We are committed to maintaining a quality product, maintaining a safe work environment and serving our community,” explained Duarte. OMYA consistently plays a role in community support: they are often sponsors for the community events, school programs and also come in and teach a program about toothpaste in the elementary school.