North Carolina's food manufacturing sector is a vital component of the state's economy, producing a wide range of products from snacks to frozen foods. This industry houses businesses specializing in dairy, plant-based alternatives, and condiments, all responding to evolving consumer preferences. With increasing demand for healthier options and sustainability, companies are shifting focus toward innovative, quality-driven offerings. Many firms are investing in technology to enhance food safety and production efficiency. The result is a thriving market that upholds quality while integrating local sourcing strategies, positioning North Carolina as a significant player in the national food manufacturing landscape.


The featured companies range in size from small to large, employing between 11 to over 10,000 individuals. They are primarily based in key locations such as Charlotte, Greensboro, and Winston-Salem. Founded from 1941 to 2017, these businesses focus on specialty products, including snacks, sauces, dairy, and frozen goods. As food manufacturing increasingly centers on quality and convenience, these companies continually adapt their product lines to meet market demands, establishing solid reputations through innovation and community engagement.


Continue reading to discover top food manufacturing companies in North Carolina.


Top 19 Food Manufacturing Companies in North Carolina


1. Snyder's-Lance, Inc.

  • Website: snyderslance.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: $6.1B, December 2017
  • Founded year: 1913
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: snyder%27s-lance-inc-

Snyder's-Lance, Inc., based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a prominent food manufacturer specializing in snacks. Founded in 1913, the company has built a strong reputation for its high-quality snack products, including pretzels, chips, and other savory treats. As part of the Campbell Soup Company, Snyder's-Lance benefits from a robust corporate structure and resources, allowing it to innovate and expand its product offerings. The company is dedicated to meeting consumer demands for convenient and flavorful snacks, and it actively engages in community support initiatives. Snyder's-Lance has a significant workforce, with over 1,900 employees, and it plays a vital role in the food service industry by providing products that cater to both individual consumers and businesses. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability and a focus on organic growth.


2. Alamance Foods Inc

  • Website: alamancefoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Burlington, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
  • Founded year: 1959
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: alamance-foods-inc

Alamance Foods Inc. is a food manufacturer based in Burlington, North Carolina, specializing in innovative dairy and frozen products. Established in 1959, the company has built a reputation for creating a variety of products, including whipped toppings and frozen treats, catering to both consumers and businesses. Alamance Foods places a strong emphasis on research and development, employing a team of food scientists dedicated to formulating new products and refining existing ones. Their production capabilities allow them to meet high-volume demands while also offering co-packing services for private label products. With a commitment to quality and innovation, Alamance Foods continues to push the boundaries of food manufacturing, responding to market trends and consumer needs effectively.


3. 3 Fish, Inc.

  • Website: 3fish.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Gastonia, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: 3fish-inc-

3 Fish, Inc., founded in 1996 and based in Gastonia, North Carolina, is a private food manufacturing company that specializes in seafood and convenience food products. The company prides itself on crafting innovative and flavorful meal solutions tailored for retailers and food service providers. Their product lineup includes seafood cakes, chicken croquettes, and empanadas, all designed to cater to modern consumers who prioritize quality and convenience. 3 Fish operates with a commitment to integrity and customer satisfaction, emphasizing small-batch production to maintain flexibility in flavor profiles and innovation. They also engage in private label production, allowing clients to offer customized products under their own brand names. The company is dedicated to building strong partnerships with its clients, ensuring that they meet and exceed customer expectations. With certifications such as SQF Level 2 and USDA FSIS inspection, 3 Fish demonstrates a commitment to quality and safety in its manufacturing processes.


4. Origin Food Group, LLC

  • Website: originfoodgroup.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Statesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: origin-food-group-llc

Origin Food Group, LLC, based in Statesville, North Carolina, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been operational since 2009. The company specializes in functional foods and dairy products, producing a range of items including drinkable yogurts and ice cream mixes. With a mission to provide nutritious and delicious food options, Origin Food Group emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, such as HOWARU® probiotics and antioxidant-rich superfruits. They have a strong commitment to health and wellness, having pioneered several innovations in the functional food sector over the past four decades. Their operations are supported by local partnerships with dairy farmers, ensuring a supply of premium ingredients. The company also offers contract packing and private label services, showcasing their flexibility and capability to meet various customer needs in the food industry.


5. Yamco

  • Website: yamco.net
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Snow Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2004
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: yamco-llc

Yamco, founded in 2004 and based in Snow Hill, North Carolina, is a private food processing company that specializes in high-quality vegetable and fruit purees. The company serves food service providers and manufacturers, offering purees that maintain excellent flavor and nutritional value, produced without any additives or preservatives. Yamco operates a modern facility that employs patented microwave technology to ensure superior product quality. As a grower-owned business, they emphasize efficient traceability to the growers and their fields, which supports their commitment to sustainability. The company is dedicated to utilizing 100% of their crops, creating a zero-waste environment, and supporting their local community through innovation and professional growth for employees. Their product range includes purees made from sweet potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, butternut squash, pumpkins, and beets, catering to various applications in the food industry.


6. SinnovaTek | SinnoVita | FirstWave

  • Website: sinnovatek.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Seed, $5.0M, July 2021
  • Founded year: 2015
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: sinnovatek-inc.

SinnovaTek, also known as SinnoVita and FirstWave, is a food processing company based in Raleigh, North Carolina, founded in 2015. With a team of food scientists and engineers, the company specializes in advanced thermal processing and R&D services tailored for food products. SinnovaTek offers a comprehensive suite of solutions, including product development, ingredient technology, and co-manufacturing, primarily targeting food manufacturers and entrepreneurs. Their innovative Vitero ingredient technology focuses on extracting health-promoting compounds from fruits and vegetables, enhancing the nutritional profile of various food products. The company has received $5 million in seed funding as of July 2021, which underscores its growth potential and commitment to advancing food technology. SinnovaTek's approach emphasizes food safety, quality, and sustainability, making it a significant contributor to the food manufacturing industry.


7. Mother Murphy's Flavors

  • Website: mothermurphys.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Greensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1946
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: mother-murphys-labs

Mother Murphy's Flavors is a family-owned food flavoring company based in Greensboro, North Carolina. Founded in 1946, the company specializes in developing high-quality food flavorings, extracts, and powders. They serve a wide array of customers in the food and beverage industry, including beverage producers, bakeries, and confectionery manufacturers. With a strong emphasis on innovation, Mother Murphy's is committed to creating flavor solutions that enhance product offerings and meet consumer demand for healthy, organic, and clean-label products. The company boasts over 195,000 square feet dedicated to research and development, quality control, manufacturing, and distribution, and has a team of flavor chemists focused on crafting unique flavor profiles. They ship their products to more than 30 countries, showcasing their international presence and commitment to customer service.


8. Garner Foods

  • Website: garnerfoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1929
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: garner-foods

Garner Foods, officially known as TW Garner Food Company, is a private manufacturer based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Established in 1929, the company has carved out a niche in the food manufacturing sector, specializing in sauces and salsas. Their flagship product, Texas Pete® Hot Sauce, has become a staple in many households and restaurants. Garner Foods also produces Green Mountain Gringo® Salsa, which is marketed as the freshest jarred salsa available and is Non-GMO Verified. The company emphasizes quality and flavor, with a product lineup that includes various hot sauces and salsas designed to enhance culinary experiences. Garner Foods serves both retail consumers and foodservice businesses, showcasing their versatility in the market. They have maintained a strong presence in the industry for over nine decades, adapting to changing consumer preferences while upholding their commitment to quality.


9. Atlantic Natural Foods

  • Website: atlanticnaturalfoods.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Nashville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: October 2021
  • Founded year: 2008
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: atlantic-natural-foods-llc

Atlantic Natural Foods, based in Nashville, North Carolina, is a plant-based food manufacturer dedicated to producing sustainable and nutritious products. Founded in 2008, the company operates under several brands, including Loma Linda, TUNO, and CHIK’N, catering to health-conscious consumers and food service professionals. Their offerings include a range of meat and seafood alternatives, emphasizing affordability and accessibility. Atlantic Natural Foods is committed to sustainability, ensuring that their products are made from ethically sourced ingredients. They maintain FDA-approved facilities and uphold rigorous food safety standards. The company has also been proactive in addressing global food supply challenges, positioning itself as a relevant player in the evolving food industry.


10. Creative Snacks Co., LLC

  • Website: creativesnacks.com
  • Ownership type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: High Point, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: October 2019
  • Founded year: 2009
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: creative-snacks-co-llc

Creative Snacks Co., LLC, based in High Point, North Carolina, is a snack food manufacturer that has been operational since 2009. The company specializes in crafting a variety of snacks, including coconut snacks, granola clusters, and enrobed pretzels. Their products are designed for health-conscious consumers who seek tasty and innovative snack options made from quality ingredients. Creative Snacks prides itself on its handmade production process, ensuring that each snack is crafted with care. The company primarily sells its products through online retail, allowing them to reach a broad audience directly. Their focus on quality and unique flavor combinations has helped them establish a presence in the competitive snack food market.


11. Great Eastern Sun Trading Company, Inc.


Great Eastern Sun Trading Company, Inc., based in Asheville, North Carolina, has been a player in the food manufacturing industry since its inception in 1979. The company specializes in organic and globally-inspired ingredients, offering a variety of products that include miso, seaweed, noodles, and teas. Their flagship brand, Miso Master, is known for its organic miso paste, produced using traditional Japanese methods without the use of preservatives or yeast accelerants. Great Eastern Sun is committed to sustainability, as evidenced by their plastic neutral certification and carbon-neutral shipping practices. They cater to health-conscious consumers, emphasizing organic, gluten-free, and non-GMO options. Their product range is designed to meet the needs of a natural foods diet, reflecting a growing consumer preference for healthier food choices. The company operates entirely within the United States and has maintained a consistent presence in the market for over four decades.


12. Cardinal Foods, LLC

  • Website: cardinalfoodsllc.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Burgaw, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Algeria 8%
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: cardinal-foods-llc

Cardinal Foods, LLC, based in Burgaw, North Carolina, is a private food processing company that has been operational since 2017. The firm specializes in the production of frozen fruits and vegetables, utilizing techniques such as individual quick freezing (IQF) to maintain the quality and nutritional value of their products. Cardinal Foods sources its ingredients primarily from local farmers within a 100-mile radius, emphasizing sustainability and community support. Their product offerings include frozen purees, which serve as versatile ingredients for various applications in the food industry. The company also provides logistics and cold storage services, enhancing their operational efficiency and reducing waste. With a focus on transparency and building strong relationships with growers, Cardinal Foods aims to connect the farm to the table, ensuring high-quality food products for manufacturers and consumers alike.


13. Stormberg Foods LLC

  • Website: stormbergfoods.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Goldsboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2016
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • LinkedIn: stormbergfoods

Stormberg Foods LLC, based in Goldsboro, North Carolina, is a private meat snack manufacturer that specializes in air-dried snacks, particularly biltong. Founded in 2016, the company has quickly established itself in the market by catering to health-conscious consumers and businesses looking for co-packing services. Stormberg Foods emphasizes the use of natural ingredients and traditional South African flavors, ensuring that their products meet the demands of modern dietary preferences. The company operates from a state-of-the-art facility in the USA and has a significant presence in South Africa, where it is reputed to be the largest biltong manufacturer. With a commitment to quality and a focus on high-protein, low-sugar snacks, Stormberg Foods is well-positioned to serve both retail and private label markets. Their product range includes various meat snacks and pet treats, showcasing their versatility in the food manufacturing industry.


14. Carolina Packers Inc

  • Website: carolinapackers.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Smithfield, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1941
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: carolina-packers-inc

Carolina Packers Inc, based in Smithfield, North Carolina, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been crafting quality meat products since its founding in 1941. The company is particularly renowned for its Bright Leaf Hot Dogs, which have become a staple in Southern cuisine. Carolina Packers serves a dual market, providing products directly to consumers through online orders and local grocery stores, as well as supplying restaurants and grills. Their product line includes not only hot dogs but also sausages, bacon, and BBQ, reflecting a commitment to traditional Southern flavors. The company emphasizes quality and freshness, sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. Carolina Packers has built a loyal customer base, with many consumers expressing a deep connection to their products, often reminiscing about their childhood experiences with Bright Leaf Hot Dogs. This strong brand loyalty and community engagement highlight their relevance in the food manufacturing industry.


15. Trinity Frozen Foods

  • Website: trinityfrozenfoods.com
  • Ownership type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Pembroke, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: Seed, $488,000, August 2014
  • Founded year: 2012
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: trinity-frozen-foods

Trinity Frozen Foods, established in 2012 and located in Pembroke, North Carolina, specializes in the production of frozen sweet potato products, with a primary focus on sweet potato fries. The company prides itself on sourcing sweet potatoes from local farms, ensuring that their products are made from the freshest and highest quality ingredients. This local sourcing not only supports the regional economy but also allows Trinity to maintain a reliable supply chain. Their manufacturing facility is designed specifically for sweet potato processing, utilizing advanced techniques to enhance flavor and nutritional value. Trinity Frozen Foods serves a variety of clients, including food service distributors, restaurants, and grocery stores, and has developed a reputation for producing clean, gluten-free, and non-GMO products. The company has also attracted venture capital funding, which underscores its potential for growth and innovation in the food manufacturing industry.


16. Golding, Inc

  • Website: goldingblends.com
  • Ownership type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Latest funding: August 2017
  • Founded year: 1972
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: goldingfarms

Golding, Inc., based in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, has been a significant player in the food manufacturing industry since its inception in 1972. The company specializes in producing a wide array of sauces, condiments, and dressings, catering to consumer brands, private labels, and food service sectors. With a dedicated team that includes chefs and food scientists, Golding focuses on flavor innovation, ensuring that their products meet current market trends and consumer preferences. They pride themselves on their ability to blend high-quality ingredients into unique culinary creations, emphasizing both small-batch quality and large-scale production capabilities. Golding's commitment to quality is evident in their meticulous manufacturing processes, which ensure that every product meets rigorous standards before reaching the market. Their extensive experience and expertise in flavor development position them as a reliable partner for businesses seeking to enhance their product offerings.


17. Butterball, LLC

  • Website: butterball.com
  • Ownership type: Private
  • Headquarters: Garner, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
  • Latest funding: December 2010
  • Founded year: 1954
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • LinkedIn: butterball-llc

Butterball, LLC, based in Garner, North Carolina, is a prominent food manufacturer specializing in turkey and poultry products. Established in 1954, the company has grown to employ between 5,001 and 10,000 individuals, primarily in the United States. Butterball offers a wide range of products, including whole turkeys, deli meats, turkey burgers, and various cuts of turkey, catering to consumers who prioritize nutritious meal options. The company emphasizes quality and convenience, making it a popular choice for families looking for easy meal solutions. Butterball also engages in corporate social responsibility, focusing on animal care and well-being, which resonates with consumers' increasing interest in ethical food production. Their Turkey Talk-Line® provides additional support to customers, enhancing their brand's accessibility and customer service.


18. LC America, Inc.

  • Website: lcamerica.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Colfax, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • LinkedIn: lcamericainc

LC America, Inc. is a family-owned manufacturer based in Colfax, North Carolina, specializing in snack pellets for the snack food industry. Founded in 2011, the company began operations in 2013 and has since established itself as a key supplier of semi-finished snack products made from potatoes, legumes, cereals, and vegetables. Their production process utilizes advanced technology similar to pasta manufacturing, ensuring high-quality output. LC America caters primarily to snack food producers, providing them with customizable products that can be further processed and branded. The company emphasizes quality control and sustainability, adhering to strict standards such as GMP and HACCP. As a subsidiary of the Italian company Le Caselle, LC America benefits from a rich heritage of food manufacturing expertise, which enhances its credibility in the market. Their commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction positions them well within the growing savory snack market.


19. Aeroglide Corporation

  • Website: aeroglide.com
  • Ownership type: Family Owned
  • Headquarters: Cary, North Carolina, United States (USA)
  • Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
  • Founded year: 1940
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • LinkedIn: aeroglide-corporation

Aeroglide Corporation, based in Cary, North Carolina, has been a family-owned business since its founding in 1940. The company specializes in the design and manufacture of industrial drying and cooling equipment, primarily for the food processing industry. Their products are essential for ensuring the quality and safety of food products by effectively removing moisture and controlling temperature during production. Aeroglide serves a variety of sectors within food manufacturing, including snacks, cereals, and other processed foods. Their commitment to innovation and efficiency in food processing has allowed them to maintain a relevant position in the industry, catering to the needs of food manufacturers looking to optimize their production processes.



Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina


CompanyHeadquarterSizeFoundedOwnership
Snyder's-Lance, Inc.Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)5001-100001913Corporate
Alamance Foods IncBurlington, North Carolina, United States (USA)1001-50001959Private
3 Fish, Inc.Gastonia, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001996Private
Origin Food Group, LLCStatesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502009Family Owned
YamcoSnow Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002004Private
SinnovaTek | SinnoVita | FirstWaveRaleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502015Venture Capital
Mother Murphy's FlavorsGreensboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001946Family Owned
Garner FoodsWinston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001929Private
Atlantic Natural FoodsNashville, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002008Corporate
Creative Snacks Co., LLCHigh Point, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002009Corporate
Great Eastern Sun Trading Company, Inc.Asheville, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001979Private
Cardinal Foods, LLCBurgaw, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002017Private
Stormberg Foods LLCGoldsboro, North Carolina, United States (USA)201-5002016Private
Carolina Packers IncSmithfield, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001941Family Owned
Trinity Frozen FoodsPembroke, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2002012Venture Capital
Golding, IncWinston-Salem, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001972Private Equity
Butterball, LLCGarner, North Carolina, United States (USA)5001-100001954Private
LC America, Inc.Colfax, North Carolina, United States (USA)11-502011Family Owned
Aeroglide CorporationCary, North Carolina, United States (USA)51-2001940Family Owned


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