Kalamazoo spice maker stays true to family roots, balancing purpose and profit on a global scale Updated Jan 08, 2021; KALAMAZOO, MI -- Even as it operates on a global scale Kalsec, Kalamazoo Spice Extraction Company, has remained a homegrown family business. The company has expanded to three continents over the course of 60 years, but its headquarters remain at 3713 W. Main St. in Kalamazoo. Kalsec was founded in 1958 by Paul H. Todd, Jr., who first sold hot chili extract. Prior to getting into spices, he worked for his grandfather, Albert May Todd, known as the “Peppermint King of Kalamazoo,” at the A. M. Todd mint company.