Founded in 2016 by Cliff Pollard, Cream Co. Meats emerged from a desire to challenge the industrialized meat system and rebuild a more transparent, sustainable supply chain. Drawing on years in the Bay Area food community, Pollard envisioned a “missing middle” that could connect small, regenerative ranchers directly with chefs and consumers. Oakland became the company’s home base, where its founders and early team built infrastructure to support whole-animal butchery, ethical sourcing, and regional distribution. Their mission centers on quality, environmental stewardship, and strengthening local food economies.