California's fish processing industry is a vibrant sector that reflects the state's rich maritime resources. This industry features a range of companies, from small operations to large distributors, specializing in everything from fresh-caught fish to innovative, sustainable seafood alternatives. Growing interest in environmentally-friendly fishing practices and health-conscious consumption trends is shaping the future. Companies are increasingly utilizing technology to enhance processing methodologies and transparency, meeting the demands of both consumers and markets. This evolution highlights the push towards sustainability, promising to redefine seafood sourcing and processing for years to come.


The companies listed are based in California, including Los Angeles, San Diego, and Richmond. They range in size from small teams of 1-10 to substantial organizations with up to 5,000 employees. Established between 1939 and 2021, these firms present unique specializations from fresh seafood distribution to innovative, cell-cultured options. Key players, such as Santa Monica Seafood and Wildtype, showcase how traditional businesses are adapting to modern consumer preferences.


Read on to discover more about California's top fish processing companies.


Top 19 Fish Processing Companies Companies in California


1. Luxe Seafood Company

  • Website: luxe-seafood.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: luxe-seafood-company

Luxe Seafood Company, founded in 2015 and based in Los Angeles, California, operates as a private seafood distributor. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in sourcing and distributing fresh and sustainable seafood to culinary professionals, including chefs and restaurants. Luxe Seafood prides itself on its strong relationships with the fishing community, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality seafood products. Their offerings include a variety of fish, from wild-caught options to sustainably farmed varieties, catering to the specific needs of their clientele. The company emphasizes quality, sustainability, and community engagement, positioning itself as a vital player in the seafood distribution and processing industry.


2. Nautilus Seafood

  • Website: nautilussfd.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: October 2022
  • Founded year: 1974
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: nautilusseafood

Nautilus Seafood, founded in 1974, is a seafood distributor and processor based in Wilmington, California. The company specializes in the import, export, and distribution of a variety of seafood products, including calamari, mackerel, and sardines. Nautilus Seafood operates its own fishing vessels, ensuring that they can source fresh seafood directly from the ocean. Their processing plant in Wilmington is strategically located near Long Beach Harbor, facilitating efficient distribution. The company employs skilled fish processors and grading technicians who focus on proper handling, processing, and packaging to maintain high quality. Nautilus Seafood serves a wide range of clients, including restaurants, distributors, hotels, and markets, and has experience in exporting seafood products worldwide. Their commitment to quality and freshness is evident in their daily product offerings and refrigerated distribution network.


3. Santa Monica Seafood

  • Website: santamonicaseafood.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Compton, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1939
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • LinkedIn: santa-monica-seafood

Santa Monica Seafood, based in Compton, California, is a family-owned seafood distributor that has been serving the industry since 1939. With a workforce of approximately 309 employees, the company specializes in wholesale seafood products tailored for restaurants and grocery stores. They pride themselves on their commitment to sustainability, having been the first seafood distributor to partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium to promote responsible sourcing. Santa Monica Seafood operates a robust distribution network that spans the Southwestern United States, ensuring fresh seafood delivery six days a week. Their services include custom processing and packaging, catering to the specific needs of their business customers. The company holds several certifications, including FSSC 22000 for food safety and ISO 14001 for environmental management, underscoring their dedication to quality and safety in seafood processing. With a focus on local fish and a team of experienced professionals, Santa Monica Seafood continues to be a trusted source in the seafood industry.


4. Wild Planet Foods

  • Website: wildplanetfoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Mckinleyville, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: wild-planet-foods

Wild Planet Foods, founded in 2004 and based in McKinleyville, California, is a private company that specializes in sustainably sourced canned seafood products. With a workforce of around 42 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the seafood market by offering a range of products including tuna, sardines, salmon, and ready-to-eat meals. Wild Planet Foods emphasizes its commitment to sustainable fishing practices, partnering with small-scale fishermen who utilize environmentally friendly methods. Their products are designed for health-conscious consumers, and the company prides itself on high-quality food preparation and minimal processing. Wild Planet Foods also focuses on transparency, allowing consumers to trace their seafood from catch to can, which enhances their credibility in the market. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.


5. Wildtype

  • Website: wildtypefoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: $7.5M, November 2022
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: wild-type-inc

Wildtype, founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California, is a seafood producer that specializes in cultivated salmon. The company is dedicated to providing sustainable seafood solutions through cellular agriculture, which allows them to produce high-quality, sushi-grade salmon without relying on traditional fishing methods. This innovative approach aims to tackle the challenges of overfishing and environmental sustainability in the seafood industry. Wildtype has received significant funding, with their last funding round amounting to approximately $7.5 million in late 2022. Their team consists of experts from various fields, including science, culinary arts, and engineering, all united by a shared passion for transforming the food system. Wildtype's mission is to create clean, accessible seafood while protecting the oceans and promoting food security.


6. Alaska Seafood Co


Alaska Seafood Co, based in Los Angeles, California, is a seafood provider that specializes in wild-caught Alaskan seafood. Founded in 1987, the company has built a reputation for offering a variety of products, including frozen, smoked, and canned seafood. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their sourcing practices, ensuring that all seafood is harvested from the pristine waters of Alaska. Recently acquired by the Tlingit and Haida Corporation, Alaska Seafood Co is proudly Native-owned, which adds a layer of cultural significance to their operations. The company has pioneered the use of retort pouch technology in Alaska, allowing them to produce shelf-stable smoked salmon products. Their offerings cater to both retail consumers and wholesale clients, reflecting their adaptability in the market. Alaska Seafood Co emphasizes quality, with a focus on hand-filleting and careful processing to maintain the natural flavors and nutritional benefits of their seafood. They also provide a range of products for outdoor enthusiasts, including survival foods and pet treats, showcasing their versatility in product offerings.


7. Lusamerica Foods Inc

  • Website: lusamerica.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Morgan Hill, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1975
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: lusamerica-foods-inc

Lusamerica Foods Inc, founded in 1975 and based in Morgan Hill, California, is a family-owned seafood distributor that specializes in a wide array of seafood products. The company offers fresh and frozen fish, shellfish, and value-added items, catering to grocery retailers, foodservice operators, and restaurants. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Lusamerica sources seafood from local fisheries along the West Coast, ensuring high-quality products while supporting the local fishing community. They operate multiple processing facilities equipped with state-of-the-art technology, which enables them to maintain product availability and deliver seafood efficiently. Lusamerica's commitment to quality and customer service has established them as a reliable source of seafood in the industry, and they actively promote local seafood to enhance the market for West Coast products.


8. Red Chamber Company

  • Website: redchamber.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1973
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: red-chamber-co-

Red Chamber Company, based in Vernon, California, has been a significant player in the seafood industry since its founding in 1973. The company specializes in importing and processing a wide range of seafood products, catering primarily to the food service and retail sectors. With a focus on high-quality standards, Red Chamber operates several processing plants and cold storage facilities across the United States, allowing them to efficiently meet customer demands. Their commitment to quality control and compliance with HACCP standards showcases their dedication to safety in seafood processing. Red Chamber's innovative approach to product development and customer service has helped them grow from a small operation to a notable entity in the seafood importing and processing market.


9. Southwind Foods / Great American Seafood Imports Co.


Southwind Foods / Great American Seafood Imports Co. is a seafood distributor and processor based in Carson, California. Founded in 1999, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality fresh and frozen seafood products to grocery stores, distributors, and food service customers. With a workforce of approximately 105 employees, Southwind Foods emphasizes sustainability and quality in its operations. They offer a wide array of seafood items, including shrimp, fillets, steaks, and shellfish, while also providing value-added products like meal kits and skewers. The company operates a HACCP-approved facility that meets stringent food safety standards, ensuring that their products are safe and traceable. Southwind Foods is dedicated to maintaining strong relationships with both suppliers and customers, which allows them to effectively meet the needs of the seafood market across the United States.


10. BlueNalu

  • Website: bluenalu.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Series B, $33.5M, October 2023
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: bluenalu

BlueNalu, Inc., founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, California, is a seafood producer that specializes in cell-cultured seafood products. The company aims to provide sustainable and high-quality seafood alternatives, starting with bluefin tuna toro. BlueNalu's innovative approach allows it to produce seafood without depleting ocean resources, addressing the pressing issues of overfishing and contamination associated with traditional seafood. The company targets restaurants and chefs who seek nutritious seafood options while being mindful of environmental impacts. With a recent Series B funding round raising $33.5 million in October 2023, BlueNalu is poised to expand its operations and product offerings, further solidifying its role in the seafood industry. The company is committed to safety, transparency, and sustainability in its production processes, making it a notable player in the evolving seafood market.


11. Safe Catch

  • Website: safecatch.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Sausalito, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: Thailand 56%, United States (USA) 44%
  • Latest funding: Seed, $5.0M, February 2018
  • Founded year: 2014
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: safe-catch-inc-

Safe Catch, founded in 2014 and based in Sausalito, California, is a seafood brand that specializes in canned seafood products, including tuna, salmon, sardines, and mackerel. The company is dedicated to providing low-mercury options that are sustainably sourced, catering to health-conscious consumers and families. Safe Catch stands out in the industry by testing every tuna for mercury, ensuring that their products meet a standard ten times stricter than the FDA's guidelines. This commitment to safety and purity is complemented by their partnerships with reputable organizations, such as the American Pregnancy Association and the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch. With a small team of around 18 employees, Safe Catch has also attracted venture capital funding, securing $5 million in their last funding round in February 2018. Their mission is to deliver pure and delicious seafood while actively protecting the purity of oceans, lakes, and rivers.


12. Crown Prince, Inc.

  • Website: crownprince.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Industry, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1948
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: crown-prince-inc.

Crown Prince, Inc. is a privately owned canned seafood company based in Industry, California, with a history dating back to 1948. The company specializes in a wide array of seafood products, including various types of fish, clams, and oysters. Crown Prince emphasizes sustainability and quality, ensuring that their offerings meet the needs of health-conscious consumers. They provide convenient meal options through their canned products, which are designed for easy preparation and consumption. The company is also committed to sustainable fishing practices, as evidenced by their certifications and initiatives aimed at promoting responsible seafood sourcing. With a workforce of 28 employees, Crown Prince remains focused on delivering high-quality seafood while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental stewardship.


13. Del Mar Seafoods

  • Website: delmarseafoods.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Watsonville, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1988
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: del-mar-seafoods-inc

Del Mar Seafoods, founded in 1988 and based in Watsonville, California, is a family-owned seafood producer and exporter. With three generations of experience in the seafood industry, the company has carved out a niche in high-quality California market squid. They process and export over 40 million pounds of seafood each year, serving a variety of clients including distributors, restaurant groups, and retailers. Del Mar Seafoods emphasizes sustainability, being an MSC certified fishery, and adheres to strict quality control standards. Their operations include modern processing facilities in California, which are capable of handling significant volumes, and they maintain a network of reliable fishing partners along the West Coast. The company is dedicated to transparency and responsible fishing practices, ensuring that their products meet high standards for both domestic and international markets.


14. Catalina Offshore Products, Inc.

  • Website: catalinaop.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1977
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: catalina-offshore-products-inc.

Catalina Offshore Products, Inc. is a family-owned seafood market and online retailer based in San Diego, California. Established in 1977, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality fresh and frozen seafood products. They serve a wide range of customers, from individual consumers to local restaurants and caterers, ensuring next-day delivery for their offerings. Catalina Offshore Products specializes in sushi-grade fish and gourmet cooking kits, reflecting their commitment to quality and culinary excellence. The company is also recognized for its sustainability practices, sourcing seafood responsibly from local waters and Baja California. With a physical storefront in San Diego, they offer a variety of seafood that is not always available online, catering to both retail and wholesale markets. Their extensive experience in the seafood industry, combined with a focus on customer service and product quality, positions them as a notable entity in the fish processing sector.


15. Hog Island Oyster Co

  • Website: hogislandoysters.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1983
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: hog-island-oyster-co

Hog Island Oyster Co. is a private seafood company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 1983. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, the company specializes in the cultivation and sale of oysters and shellfish. They operate several oyster bars and retail locations, providing fresh seafood products directly to consumers and businesses. Hog Island is recognized for its sustainable farming practices, which are integral to its operations. The company not only focuses on the quality of its products but also engages in environmental stewardship, collaborating with scientists to address issues like ocean acidification. Their offerings include a variety of oysters, shellfish, and fish, available through retail and online platforms, as well as through subscription services. Hog Island's commitment to sustainability and community engagement further enhances its profile in the seafood industry.


16. Shinkei

  • Website: shinkei.systems
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: El Segundo, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Seed, $6.0M, February 2024
  • Founded year: 2021
  • Headcount: 1-10
  • LinkedIn: shinkeisystems

Shinkei Systems, founded in 2021 and based in El Segundo, California, is a technology firm specializing in seafood processing automation. With a small team of around 22 employees, the company is focused on providing innovative solutions that help fishers and farmers optimize their operations and reduce waste. Their automation suite leverages advanced technologies such as sensor fusion, edge computing, and machine learning to enhance efficiency in the seafood supply chain. Shinkei's offerings include robotics as a service, which allows clients to scale their operations while minimizing labor costs. Recently, they secured $6 million in seed funding to further develop their technologies and expand their market reach. Shinkei is committed to transforming the seafood supply chain, aiming to improve yield and sustainability in an industry that faces significant challenges.


17. Certi-Fresh Foods, Inc.


Certi-Fresh Foods, Inc., founded in 1979 and based in Carson, California, is a seafood supplier that specializes in high-quality fish and seafood products. The company serves a range of clients, including restaurants, grocery chains, and food service distributors. Certi-Fresh is committed to maintaining stringent quality standards and providing exceptional customer service, ensuring that clients receive fresh and safe seafood. They manage all aspects of their operations, including processing, packaging, and shipping, from a single location, which allows them to maintain strict quality control. Their product offerings include a wide variety of seafood, such as shrimp, fin fish, shellfish, and breaded seafood items. Certi-Fresh also provides custom-made products tailored to specific client requirements, further enhancing their service in the seafood industry.


18. Lotus Seafood Inc USA

  • Website: lotusseafood.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Oceanside, California, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2006
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: lotus-seafood

Lotus Seafood Inc USA, based in Oceanside, California, is a seafood supplier that has been active since 2006. The company specializes in the import, export, and sales of high-quality seafood products, catering primarily to foodservice providers, distributors, retail chains, and restaurants. They offer a wide range of products, including shrimp, fish, shellfish, and specialty items. Lotus Seafood is dedicated to sustainability, sourcing its products responsibly and ensuring traceability within its supply chains. The company processes and distributes over 30,000 tons of seafood annually, with a focus on maintaining high standards of quality and environmental responsibility. Their production facility is equipped with advanced technology, enhancing their operational efficiency and product quality. Lotus Seafood has also received certification from the Marine Stewardship Council, underscoring their commitment to sustainable practices in the seafood industry.


19. Albion Farms & Fisheries

  • Website: albion.ca
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Richmond, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1963
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: albion-fisheries

Albion Farms & Fisheries, known as Intercity Packers, is a private company based in Richmond, California, with a history dating back to 1963. The firm operates as a meat and seafood supplier, delivering high-quality products to restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments across Canada. With a workforce of approximately 200 to 500 employees, the company emphasizes custom processing and tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of its clients. Intercity Packers is dedicated to sustainability, actively supporting practices that respect animal welfare and the communities they serve. Their operations include sourcing and processing a variety of seafood products, ensuring that they meet high standards of quality and safety. The company has built a reputation for reliability and customer service, making it a trusted partner in the food service industry.



Fish Processing Companies Insights: Key Companies in California


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Luxe Seafood CompanyLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)11-502015Private
Nautilus SeafoodLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-2001974Private Equity
Santa Monica SeafoodCompton, California, United States (USA)501-10001939Family Owned
Wild Planet FoodsMckinleyville, California, United States (USA)11-502004Private
WildtypeSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)51-2002016Private Equity
Alaska Seafood CoLos Angeles, California, United States (USA)1-101987Corporate
Lusamerica Foods IncMorgan Hill, California, United States (USA)201-5001975Family Owned
Red Chamber CompanyVernon, California, United States (USA)1001-50001973Private
Southwind Foods / Great American Seafood Imports Co.Carson, California, United States (USA)51-2001999Private
BlueNaluSan Diego, California, United States (USA)11-502017Venture Capital
Safe CatchSausalito, California, United States (USA)1-102014Venture Capital
Crown Prince, Inc.Industry, California, United States (USA)11-501948Private
Del Mar SeafoodsWatsonville, California, United States (USA)11-501988Family Owned
Catalina Offshore Products, Inc.San Diego, California, United States (USA)51-2001977Family Owned
Hog Island Oyster CoSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-5001983Private
ShinkeiEl Segundo, California, United States (USA)1-102021Venture Capital
Certi-Fresh Foods, Inc.Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)51-2001979Private
Lotus Seafood Inc USAOceanside, California, United States (USA)11-502006Private
Albion Farms & FisheriesRichmond, California, United States (USA)201-5001963Private


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