NEWARK, OHIO — The Kroger Co. said it will invest $70 million in a 35,000-square-foot expansion of its Tamarack Farms Dairy that will include the retailer’s first aseptic milk line in the Midwest.

The new line will be capable of manufacturing half and half, heavy whipping cream, coffee creamers and Carbmaster milk beverage, Kroger said. The retailer also noted the aseptic milk line is part of its largescale efforts to deliver long-shelf-life high-protein drinks, non-dairy and dairy products through modern technology.

“We are so pleased to see this continued investment in Newark,” said Doug Blacksten, senior director of supply chain and manufacturing at Kroger. “Kroger is Fresh for Everyone, and that means we are committed to sourcing and manufacturing only the best and freshest products. This cutting-edge innovation at Tamarack Farms Dairy underscores that commitment, improving our ability to offer high-quality dairy products to Kroger customers.”

Built in 1978 and sitting on 20 acres in Newark, Tamarack Farms Dairy is the largest fluid dairy product producer in Ohio. The facility serves approximately 160 stores in Ohio and West Virginia and provides products for Kroger’s e-commerce channel.

“Kroger’s significant investment transforms the Tamarack Farms Dairy into an aseptic processing facility, creating a new market for Ohio’s dairy industry,” said Tim Derickson, senior managing director of food and agribusiness at JobsOhio. “The extended shelf-life dairy product that will come from the cutting-edge operations in the Licking County facility will meet growing demand for Kroger’s customers nationwide and boost demand for dairy farmers throughout central Ohio.”