The food manufacturing industry in Massachusetts thrives on innovation and quality. This sector focuses on creating edible products ranging from frozen meals to specialty ingredients, often emphasizing health and sustainability. As consumer preferences shift toward plant-based and organic foods, companies are adapting their offerings to align with these trends. The growth of e-commerce has also opened new avenues for distribution, allowing manufacturers to reach health-conscious consumers directly. With advancements in technology and sustainability practices, Massachusetts is positioned to remain influential in food production, catering to an informed and engaged market.

The companies in this list vary in size from small-scale producers to larger establishments, with employment numbers ranging from 11 to over 1,000. They operate out of cities like Lynn, Haverhill, and Boston, having been founded between 1930 and 2019. Each specializes in distinct areas—Kettle Cuisine for frozen meals, Taza Chocolate for ethical chocolate, and LightLife for plant-based alternatives. This collection reflects the richness of Massachusetts' food manufacturing ecosystem and its responsiveness to changing consumer demands.

Continue reading to explore the top food manufacturing companies in Massachusetts.

Top 19 Food Manufacturing Companies in Massachusetts

1. Kettle Cuisine

• Website: kettlecuisine.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Lynn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2018
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: kettle-cuisine

Kettle Cuisine, based in Lynn, Massachusetts, is a food manufacturer that specializes in producing frozen and refrigerated food products. Founded in 1986, the company began with a mission to provide high-quality soups to restaurants that lacked the resources to prepare them in-house. Over the years, Kettle Cuisine has expanded its product offerings to include a range of items such as meats, sides, sauces, and broths. The company operates four state-of-the-art production facilities across the United States, emphasizing artisan cooking techniques combined with modern technology to ensure consistent quality and safety. Kettle Cuisine serves a wide array of clients, including restaurants and foodservice operators, and is dedicated to meeting various dietary needs with its products. Their brands include Kettle Cuisine, Bonewerks, Savory Choice, Soup Supreme, and Spoon & Fork, showcasing their commitment to culinary innovation and quality. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability in its operations.

2. Cedar's Foods

• Website: cedarsfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Haverhill, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: cedars-mediterranean-foods

Cedar's Foods, officially known as Cedar's Mediterranean Foods, Inc., is a food manufacturer based in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Founded in 1985, the company has carved out a niche in the Mediterranean food sector, offering a variety of products that include hommus and other prepared foods. Cedar's emphasizes the use of quality ingredients and maintains a clean production process, which resonates with health-conscious consumers. Their products are available for purchase both online and in retail stores, reflecting their commitment to accessibility. Cedar's Foods has built a reputation for providing flavorful and nutritious meal options, making them a relevant player in the food manufacturing industry.

3. Taza Chocolate

• Website: tazachocolate.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Somerville, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Morocco 14%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: taza-chocolate

Taza Chocolate, based in Somerville, Massachusetts, is a chocolate manufacturer that specializes in stone ground chocolate products. Founded in 2007 by Alex Whitmore and Kathleen Fulton, Taza has established itself as a pioneer in ethical cacao sourcing. The company offers a variety of chocolate bars, discs, and snacks, all made from organic cacao beans. Taza's unique stone grinding process results in minimally processed chocolate that retains bold flavors and textures. They are committed to sustainability and fair trade practices, maintaining direct relationships with cacao farmers and paying above the Fair Trade price. Taza operates a factory store where they provide tours to educate visitors about their chocolate-making process, further enhancing their connection with consumers. Their focus on quality and ethical sourcing positions them well within the food manufacturing industry.

4. LightLife

• Website: lightlife.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Montague, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $140.0M, February 2017
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lightlife-foods

LightLife Foods Inc., based in Montague, Massachusetts, is a plant-based food manufacturer that has been operational since 1979. The company specializes in nutritious meat alternatives, offering a variety of products including tempeh, smart dogs, and deli slices. LightLife caters to health-conscious consumers and those seeking plant-based options, focusing on providing energizing food that enhances the dining experience without the heaviness associated with traditional meat. Over the years, LightLife has established itself as a pioneer in the plant-based market, launching the first tempeh product into the mainstream and later introducing the popular Smart Dogs, which became the top-selling plant-based hot dog in the United States. The company has also made significant strides in sustainability, achieving carbon neutrality and committing to non-GMO products. With a workforce of around 71 employees, LightLife continues to innovate and expand its offerings, making it a relevant player in the food manufacturing industry.

5. DiLuigi Foods

• Website: diluigifoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Danvers, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: diluigi-foods

DiLuigi Foods, based in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a family-owned meat manufacturer that has been serving the food industry since 1950. The company specializes in high-quality meat products, including a variety of sausages and prepared meals. With a focus on both retail and foodservice customers, DiLuigi Foods emphasizes innovation and quality in its offerings. They source meats from reputable providers and maintain rigorous quality control through their in-house lab, ensuring that their products meet high safety and quality standards. The company is also SQF certified, which underscores its commitment to food safety. DiLuigi Foods actively engages in product development, continuously exploring new flavors and trends to meet consumer demands. Their extensive product range includes items like hot Italian sausage, organic grass-fed beef burgers, and various prepared meals, showcasing their ability to adapt to changing market preferences.

6. Motif FoodWorks

• Website: madewithmotif.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: May 2022
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: motif-foodworks

Motif FoodWorks, founded in 2019 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a food technology company dedicated to revolutionizing the plant-based food sector. The company specializes in developing innovative ingredients and finished products that enhance the taste and texture of plant-based options. Their offerings include a range of products such as plant-based burgers, chicken cutlets, and cheese alternatives, all designed to meet the needs of foodservice providers and retailers. Motif FoodWorks emphasizes sustainability and aims to create food that not only satisfies consumers but also contributes positively to the environment. The company has recently expanded its capabilities by launching bioprocessing services, allowing them to assist other companies in scaling their plant-based innovations. This strategic move highlights their commitment to advancing the industry and supporting the commercialization of plant-based technologies.

7. Decas Cranberry Products Inc.

• Website: decascranberry.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Carver, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2021
• Founded year: 1930
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: decas-cranberry-products-inc.

Decas Cranberry Products Inc. is a food manufacturer based in Carver, Massachusetts, specializing in cranberry products. Founded in 1930, the company has built a reputation for quality and innovation over its 90-plus years in business. Decas offers a wide range of products, including sweetened and organic dried cranberries, juices, and snacks. Their clientele includes food service providers and retailers who seek premium ingredients to enhance their offerings. The company prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and quality, sourcing cranberries from both its own farms and independent growers. Decas is also known for its technical expertise, which allows them to develop new products that meet evolving consumer preferences. They maintain a focus on health benefits associated with cranberries, further solidifying their position in the food manufacturing industry.

8. Brady Enterprises

• Website: bradyenterprises.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Weymouth, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1964
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: brady-enterprises

Brady Enterprises, based in Weymouth, Massachusetts, has been a player in the food manufacturing industry since its inception in 1964. The company focuses on producing dry and powdered food products, offering a variety of services such as spray drying, mixing, blending, and packaging. With a workforce of approximately 29 employees, Brady Enterprises operates multiple facilities equipped with advanced technology to ensure high-quality production. They serve a wide range of clients, including Fortune 500 companies and niche brands, showcasing their ability to meet diverse customer needs. The company emphasizes quality assurance, holding a BRC AA rating across all manufacturing facilities, and is certified for Kosher, Halal, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, and Organic products. Their research and development team, composed of food scientists and culinary experts, continuously innovates to create effective formulas for various food items, including specialty products that cater to specific dietary requirements. Brady Enterprises is committed to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality, making them a relevant entity in the food manufacturing sector.

9. Kayem Foods, Inc.

• Website: kayemfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chelsea, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, India 13%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1909
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kayem-foods-inc-

Kayem Foods, Inc. is a family-owned meat processing company based in Chelsea, Massachusetts, with a rich history dating back to 1909. The company specializes in producing high-quality natural casing franks, sausages, and deli meats, serving both consumers and businesses. Kayem operates from two facilities in Massachusetts, employing around 600 people and utilizing over 200,000 square feet of manufacturing space. The Chelsea plant features advanced technology for frankfurter production, while the Woburn facility is noted for its high volume of fresh sausage production. Kayem markets several brands, including al fresco, which is recognized as the top brand of chicken sausage in the U.S. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their ISO 9001 certification and an “AA” rating from the Global Food Safety Initiative. Kayem Foods continues to prioritize customer satisfaction and sustainable practices, making it a significant player in the food manufacturing industry.

10. Plant&Bean

• Website: plantandbean.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2023
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: plant-and-bean

Plant&Bean is a Boston-based food manufacturer that specializes in creating plant-based products aimed at enhancing health and sustainability. Founded in 2020, the company has quickly positioned itself as a player in the food industry, focusing on the development of a wide range of plant-based meats and ingredients. Their product offerings include minced meats, sausages, burgers, and more, catering to both B2B and B2C markets. Plant&Bean operates with a strong emphasis on innovation, collaborating with food technologists and chefs to create superior products. Their Seed2Fork approach highlights their commitment to cost-effective research and development, as well as scalable manufacturing capabilities. With plans for future manufacturing facilities in North America and Asia, Plant&Bean is poised to meet the increasing demand for plant-based foods. Their vision of repairing the food system aligns with global trends towards healthier and more sustainable eating habits.

11. Dairy Partners Ltd

• Website: dairypartners.co.uk
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 92%, Brazil 8%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dairy-partners

Dairy Partners Ltd, established in 2007, is a family-owned cheese manufacturer based in Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA. The company specializes in a wide range of dairy products, particularly mozzarella and pizza cheese, serving food service providers and food manufacturers. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Dairy Partners has built a reputation for high-quality cheese products tailored to customer needs. They emphasize sustainability and local sourcing, maintaining strong partnerships with over 150 local farmers to ensure that their milk supply is fresh and environmentally responsible. Their facilities in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, and Newcastle Emlyn, Wales, are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, allowing them to produce various cheese formats, including grated, shredded, and diced cheese. Dairy Partners is recognized for its commitment to quality and innovation, making it a respected supplier in the food manufacturing industry.

12. Gourmet Specialty Foods

• Website: gourmetspecialtyfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: North Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gourmet-specialty-foods

Gourmet Specialty Foods, established in 2008, is a family-owned meat manufacturer based in North Andover, Massachusetts. The company specializes in high-quality, value-added meat products, offering an array of specialty meats that include skewers, kabobs, and stuffed proteins. Operating from a USDA-certified facility, Gourmet Specialty Foods is dedicated to maintaining rigorous quality standards and innovation in their product offerings. They serve both retail and foodservice sectors, ensuring that their products meet the evolving needs of their clients. The company prides itself on using only the finest ingredients, with a focus on grass-fed, all-natural, and gluten-free options. Their commitment to excellence is reflected in their customer relationships, as they strive to deliver fresh, made-to-order proteins that exceed expectations. With a strong emphasis on culinary innovation, Gourmet Specialty Foods continuously develops new products to align with current food trends, making them a notable player in the food manufacturing industry.

13. Concord Foods LLC

• Website: concordfoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brockton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, India 4%
• Latest funding: March 2024
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: concord-foods

Concord Foods LLC, based in Brockton, Massachusetts, is a food manufacturer and ingredient supplier that has been operational since 1968. The company specializes in a variety of food products, including seasoning mixes, dessert items, and beverage syrups. They serve a broad clientele, including supermarkets, food service operators, and food manufacturers, emphasizing quality and innovation in their offerings. Concord Foods has a notable history of product development, having introduced items like the Candy Apple Kit and various produce companion products. Their recent initiatives include launching organic seasoning and smoothie mixes, showcasing their responsiveness to market trends. The company operates under strict quality standards, ensuring that their products meet the needs of modern consumers. With a workforce of around 122 employees, Concord Foods continues to play a significant role in the food manufacturing industry, providing custom solutions and maintaining a strong reputation for service and value.

14. PGI Foods

• Website: pgifoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lowell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: plenus-group-inc.

PGI Foods, also known as Plenus Group, Inc., is a private food manufacturer based in Lowell, Massachusetts. Established in 2002, the company specializes in producing premium soups, sauces, and gourmet frozen food items. With a focus on quality, PGI operates a USDA/FDA inspected facility that adheres to strict food safety standards, including HACCP compliance and SQF Level II certification. Their product range includes a variety of soups, chowders, chilis, sauces, and value-added seafood, catering to restaurants, retailers, and institutions across the United States. PGI Foods is also known for its commitment to culinary excellence, emphasizing handmade, small-batch cooking techniques. The company has received several accolades, including multiple appearances on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Companies list and recognition from Whole Foods Market as a top supplier. Their brands, such as Boston Chowda and Herban Fresh, reflect their dedication to quality and innovation in the food industry.

15. Home Market Foods

• Website: homemarketfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Norwood, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Latest funding: $22.0M, February 2010
• Founded year: 1957
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: home-market-foods

Home Market Foods, based in Norwood, Massachusetts, is a private equity-owned food manufacturer that has been operational since 1957. The company specializes in frozen food products, including a variety of meatballs, sausages, and hot dogs. Home Market Foods aims to provide convenient meal solutions that are both flavorful and easy to prepare, catering to the needs of busy consumers. Their product lines include well-known brands such as Cooked Perfect, Bahama Mama, and Eisenberg, which emphasize quality ingredients and minimal processing. The company has a strong focus on safety and quality, ensuring that their offerings meet consumer expectations. With a workforce of approximately 255 employees, Home Market Foods continues to play an active role in the food manufacturing industry, serving both retail and foodservice markets.

16. Costa Fruit & Produce

• Website: freshideas.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: costa-fruit-%26-produce

Costa Fruit & Produce, founded in 1949 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, operates as a private food distributor. The company specializes in fresh produce and specialty foods, catering to a wide range of clients, including restaurants, hotels, and healthcare facilities. With a strong emphasis on local sourcing, Costa maintains relationships with New England farmers and food artisans, ensuring high-quality ingredients. Their processing facility allows them to offer fresh cut produce, which helps streamline food preparation for their customers. Costa is also committed to food safety, holding SQF certification, which underscores their dedication to maintaining high standards in food quality. Their product offerings include conventional produce, fresh cut items, and a variety of specialty foods, making them a significant player in the food distribution and manufacturing industry.

17. Chew

• Website: chewinnovation.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: chew-llc

Chew is a Boston-based food innovation company founded in 2013. With a team of approximately 45 employees, Chew specializes in developing delicious, nutritious, and sustainable food products. They aim to revolutionize the food system by creating strategies that not only enhance food offerings but also tackle pressing issues such as food waste and equitable access to quality food. Chew's approach emphasizes the importance of natural ingredients and minimal processing, reflecting a growing consumer demand for transparency and health in food choices. Their work involves collaborating with various stakeholders in the food industry to ensure that their products are not only appealing but also beneficial for both consumers and the environment. Chew's commitment to democratizing good food for all people positions them as a significant player in the food manufacturing sector.

18. Global Organics

• Website: global-organics.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Mexico 3%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: global-organics-ltd.

Global Organics, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has been a key player in the organic food ingredient sector since its founding in 1992. The company specializes in supplying certified organic ingredients to manufacturers and wholesalers, offering a wide array of products such as organic cane sugar, chocolate, coconut products, and various fruit and vegetable ingredients. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their sourcing practices, which prioritize environmental health and social fairness. Global Organics works closely with producers who share their values, ensuring that the ingredients they provide not only meet high quality standards but also support local communities. The company has established a reputation for reliability and integrity in the organic food market, catering to the growing demand for healthier food options. They have not reported any funding, indicating a stable, self-sustaining business model.

19. Weetabix North America / Barbara's Bakery Inc.

• Website: weetabix.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 1932
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: weetabix-north-america-barbara%27s-bakery-inc-

Weetabix North America / Barbara's Bakery Inc. is a family-owned food manufacturer based in Marlborough, Massachusetts. Founded in 1932, the company specializes in breakfast cereals, offering a range of products that include Weetabix, Alpen, and Oatibix. Their product lineup is designed to cater to health-conscious consumers, emphasizing nutrition and convenience. Weetabix products are made with whole grains and fortified with essential vitamins, appealing to those seeking a nutritious start to their day. The company operates primarily in Canada, showcasing its commitment to the North American market. With a workforce of around 52 employees, Weetabix North America maintains a focused approach to its operations, ensuring quality and customer satisfaction in its offerings.

Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Massachusetts

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Kettle Cuisine	Lynn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	501-1000	1986	Private Equity
Cedar's Foods	Haverhill, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	501-1000	1985	Family Owned
Taza Chocolate	Somerville, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Private
LightLife	Montague, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1979	Corporate
DiLuigi Foods	Danvers, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	201-500	1950	Family Owned
Motif FoodWorks	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2019	Venture Capital
Decas Cranberry Products Inc.	Carver, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1930	Corporate
Brady Enterprises	Weymouth, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1964	Private
Kayem Foods, Inc.	Chelsea, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	201-500	1909	Private
Plant&Bean	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	2020	Corporate
Dairy Partners Ltd	Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Family Owned
Gourmet Specialty Foods	North Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	2008	Family Owned
Concord Foods LLC	Brockton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1968	Corporate
PGI Foods	Lowell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	2002	Private
Home Market Foods	Norwood, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	501-1000	1957	Private Equity
Costa Fruit & Produce	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	51-200	1949	Private
Chew	Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
Global Organics	Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	11-50	1992	Family Owned
Weetabix North America / Barbara's Bakery Inc.	Marlborough, Massachusetts, United States (USA)	501-1000	1932	Family Owned

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