#USA #Lifeway Foods #Morton Grove #shareholder meeting #ISS Recommendation

Lifeway Foods Gains ISS Support for Board Nominees

Lifeway Foods, Inc., a prominent American provider of kefir and fermented dairy products, has recently shared exciting news regarding its upcoming 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. Scheduled for December 29, 2025, this pivotal meeting is set against a backdrop of potential change and strategic planning. The company has received key backing from Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS), a respected independent proxy advisory firm, which has recommended to shareholders that they support all of Lifeway's nominated directors while withholding votes from nominees suggested by Edward Smolyansky.

The board nominees backed by ISS include:

• - Kirk Chartier
• - Juan Carlos (“JC”) Dalto
• - Rachel Drori
• - Andee Harris
• - Susie Hultquist
• - Dorri McWhorter
• - Jason Scher
• - Julie Smolyansky

In contrast, the dissident nominees, specifically George Sent and Edward Smolyansky, have received the recommendation to have votes withheld, suggesting a strong preference for the continuity represented by Lifeway's current leadership team.

This endorsement comes during a significant period for Lifeway Foods, which was recognized by TIME as one of America's Growth Leaders and awarded the title of Dairy Foods' Processor of the Year for 2025. Additionally, Forbes has included Lifeway in its list of Best Small Companies, underlining the organization's reputable standing in the food and beverage industry.

Lifeway stands out as a leader in the production of probiotic beverages, notably kefir, which is well-regarded for its health benefits. The company has diversified its product offerings to include various cheeses and a kid-friendly ProBugs® line. The brand's products are sold widely across the United States and internationally in countries such as Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, the UAE, and France.

Shareholders are encouraged to actively participate in the upcoming meeting by voting in advance, utilizing the WHITE proxy card provided by the company, or making their voices heard through digital platforms available on Lifeway’s website. Clear communication and informed voting are vital, especially as Lifeway navigates the competitive landscape of fermented dairy products and looks to solidify its market position.

As an organization focused on wellness and nutrition, Lifeway emphasizes the importance of its probiotics, which support digestive health and overall well-being. The company fervently believes in the value its offerings bring—not just for personal health, but for community well-being as well.

The company has also filed a definitive proxy statement with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), which provides essential details regarding the shareholder meeting, the nominees, and other vital information for stakeholders. Stakeholders are urged to review these documents thoroughly when available to ensure they are adequately informed ahead of the meeting. Access to these files will be provided free of charge, enhancing transparency and stakeholder trust—key components of the company’s strategic objectives.

Overall, as Lifeway Foods prepares for this crucial meeting and takes steps to secure its strategic direction, it aims to strengthen its commitment to shareholders, innovation, and the health benefits associated with its products. Whether you're a current shareholder or considering your investment options, keeping an eye on Lifeway’s developments will be essential as the company continues to lead in the kefir market. Through its strong leadership team and commitment to providing health-focused products, Lifeway defines itself not only as a business but as an integral part of promoting healthy lifestyles in communities around the world.