Elvis
Isaacs
…a Dedicated Pasteurizer and Pioneer.
Elvis Isaacs first arrived at Agropur’s plant in Don Mills, Ontario with hopes of embarking on an enjoyable, family-supporting career. He never expected the chance to become an innovator.
In honor of Agropur’s 85th anniversary, we continue to celebrate the men and women who have contributed so much to the Cooperative’s growth and success. Its 7,500 employees and about 3,000 members each put their skills and dedication to work on behalf of Agropur every day.
Elvis started with Agropur in 1990 and has spent most of his career in pasteurization. He was excited when given the opportunity to work with Research & Development on an important project. Together, they produced the first fine-filtered milk in North America and it took him some time to fully recognize the impact of their efforts.
“One day, I came to realize, ‘I’m a pioneer,’” Elvis said. “I’m very proud of that product.”
After 33 years, Elvis Isaacs is still fascinated by his product. Milk has long been a staple of our diets, but we’re still finding new ways to benefit from its taste, functionality and nutrition. He said the greatest affirmation he received for Agropur’s fine-filtered milk came from his children. After tasting it, they decided they enjoyed fine-filtered milk far more than conventional milk processed through typical pasteurization methods.
“Kids are innocent, and whether it’s good or bad, they’re going to tell you the truth,” he said.
Elvis says he is just as much a fan of the fine-filtered product he helped create.
“What’s so great is we actually remove the bacteria and it provides a longer shelf life,” he said. “The lower temperature provides a creamy taste. The product is more natural and the taste is more natural.”
Elvis’ sense of pride is shown throughout his work in Don Mills.
Plant Manager Alejandro Zarate said Elvis is an integral member of the team. In addition to his vast experience and valuable abilities in the plant, he drives and supports initiatives such as the Employee Store and the Social Committee and can be counted on to share valuable feedback.
“He is driven, focused and exemplifies Agropur’s values of integrity and collaboration,” Zarate said. “He’s a team player and ready to support with his skills and knowledge whenever needed.”
The Don Mills at a glance:
- 265 employees
- 175 000 square feet total of production and warehouse
- 361 million litres of milk processed per year.
- Products: Milk, cream and ice cream mixes
While Elvis enjoys his work at the plant, one of his very favorite places is aboard a cruise ship.
“We cruise all the time and it doesn’t matter the itinerary,” Elvis said. “My goal is to put my feet into the water at a beach in every country I visit.”
He and his wife take a cruise at least once a year and they prefer to embark on lengthier journeys. After returning from their first 15-day cruise, a mere week at sea no longer feels sufficient, he said.
The time he relishes most is that spent with his three granddaughters.
“That’s what life is all about,” he said.
Whether at work or at play, it’s always been important for Elvis to enjoy the company of others and add a little joy to their lives.
“Every day, my goal is to make somebody laugh,” he said.
