Tennessee's food manufacturing sector plays a vital role in the state's economy, featuring a mix of large and small companies that produce a range of products from snacks to frozen meals. The industry focuses increasingly on innovation and sustainability, with brands that cater to consumer demand for healthier and more convenient options. Recent shifts show a growing emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and environmentally friendly practices as companies adapt to changing market dynamics. This evolution reflects broader trends in consumer preferences, pushing manufacturers to not only produce but also create a positive impact in their communities.

The companies featured here showcase a range of sizes, from small manufacturers to large firms, all headquartered in Tennessee. Founded between 1908 and 2021, they cater to numerous food segments including snacks, frozen meals, and baby food. Notable examples include Bush Brothers & Company, known for its baked beans, and McKee Foods Corporation, popular for Little Debbie snacks. Together, these companies illustrate the vibrancy and variety of Tennessee's food manufacturing scene.

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

Top 19 Food Manufacturing Companies in Tennessee

1. Bush Brothers & Company

• Website: bushbeans.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Knoxville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1908
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: bush-brothers-%26-company

Bush Brothers & Company, based in Knoxville, Tennessee, is a family-owned food manufacturer that specializes in canned baked beans and a variety of bean products. Founded in 1908, the company has built a reputation for quality and sustainability in its production processes. With a workforce of approximately 414 employees, Bush Brothers operates facilities in Tennessee and Wisconsin. The company not only caters to consumers but also serves businesses, offering convenient, ready-to-eat options that meet various culinary needs. Their product line includes baked beans, grillin' beans, dips, and chili starters, showcasing their commitment to innovation in the bean category. Bush Brothers emphasizes the importance of sustainability in its operations, reflecting a growing consumer preference for environmentally responsible food choices.

2. Monogram Foods

• Website: monogramfoods.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2021
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: the-southland-companies

Monogram Foods is a food manufacturer based in Memphis, Tennessee, established in 2004. The company specializes in producing packaged and value-added foods, including a wide range of meat snacks, frozen appetizers, and baked goods. With a workforce of around 4,000 employees, Monogram operates 13 manufacturing facilities across seven states, emphasizing quality and innovation in its product offerings. The company serves various sectors, including retail and food service, and is known for its strategic partnerships in co-manufacturing and private label products. Monogram Foods has made significant investments in research and development, totaling over $226 million in the past five years, to enhance its manufacturing capabilities and product quality. Their commitment to community outreach is evident through initiatives like the Monogram Foods Loves Kids Foundation, which has raised over $15 million for children's charities. This blend of operational scale, product variety, and community involvement positions Monogram Foods as a noteworthy entity in the food manufacturing industry.

3. Red's All Natural

• Website: redsallnatural.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Franklin, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: red%27s-all-natural-llc

Red's All Natural, founded in 2009 and based in Franklin, Tennessee, is a food manufacturer that specializes in frozen foods, particularly burritos and breakfast sandwiches. The company is dedicated to providing convenient meal options made with high-quality, clean-label ingredients. Red's emphasizes the use of premium ingredients, including antibiotic-free meat and cage-free eggs, and they prioritize non-GMO and organic options when possible. Their manufacturing process includes baking fresh tortillas daily and flash-freezing products to lock in flavor and freshness. Red's has positioned itself as a significant player in the frozen food market, particularly in the breakfast segment, and has developed a loyal customer base that values quality and convenience. The company operates entirely within the United States and has its own manufacturing facility in South Dakota, which enhances its ability to maintain product quality and consistency.

4. Standard Functional Foods Group, Inc.

• Website: sffgi.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2017
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: standard-functional-foods-group-inc-

Standard Functional Foods Group, Inc., based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a food manufacturer that specializes in creating a wide range of food products. Founded in 1999, the company has built a reputation for producing items such as nutritional bars, baked goods, and frozen meals. They cater to businesses within the food and beverage industry, providing tailored manufacturing solutions that prioritize quality and safety. With a workforce of approximately 45 employees, the company emphasizes operational efficiency and continuous improvement in its production processes. Their extensive capabilities in research and development allow them to innovate and adapt to changing consumer demands, ensuring they remain relevant in a competitive market.

5. Crown Bakeries

• Website: crownbakeries.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2019
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: thebakerycos.

Crown Bakeries, founded in 1996 and based in Nashville, Tennessee, is a bakery manufacturer that specializes in a wide array of baked goods, including croissants, breads, and pastries. The company serves grocery retailers and foodservice businesses, focusing on delivering high-quality products that cater to consumer preferences for fresh and convenient food options. With a workforce of approximately 310 employees, Crown Bakeries operates multiple facilities to ensure efficient production and distribution. Their commitment to sustainability is evident, as two of their facilities have received Energy Star awards, showcasing their dedication to energy efficiency. The company is also part of The Bakery Companies, which has been actively expanding its capabilities through acquisitions, such as the recent purchase of Steck Wholesale Foods. This strategic growth positions Crown Bakeries to better serve its customers and adapt to changing market demands.

6. Synergy Food Group

• Website: sfgllc.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 78%, Australia 22%
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: synergy-food-group

Synergy Food Group, based in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a food manufacturer established in 2013. The company specializes in high-quality frozen and shelf-stable meals, serving various sectors including K-12 education, military, and emergency feeding programs. Their product offerings include customizable meal kits, sous vide proteins, and nutritionally tailored meals designed to meet specific dietary requirements. Synergy Food Group operates from a USDA and FDA inspected facility, ensuring compliance with stringent food safety standards. Their commitment to quality is evident in their sourcing of ingredients and the meticulous preparation of meals. The company has gained recognition for its role in providing convenient meal solutions, particularly during public health crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where their meals were utilized in schools to support students and staff. With a focus on innovation and customer needs, Synergy Food Group continues to make its mark in the food manufacturing industry.

7. Moody Dunbar, Inc.

• Website: moodydunbar.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Johnson, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1933
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: moodydunbarinc

Moody Dunbar, Inc. is a food manufacturer and distributor based in Johnson City, Tennessee, with a rich history dating back to 1933. The company specializes in producing high-quality pepper, pimiento, green chile, and sweet potato products. They serve a variety of clients, including foodservice distributors, restaurant operators, and retailers, ensuring a reliable year-round supply of safe and quality products grown and packed in the U.S.A. Moody Dunbar operates two processing facilities located in Dunn, North Carolina, and Saticoy, California, which are strategically positioned to source the best ingredients from local growers. The company emphasizes sustainability, utilizing practices that minimize pesticide use and promote crop rotation. Their products are non-GMO, gluten-free, and Kosher certified, reflecting a commitment to quality and consumer health. Moody Dunbar's long-standing relationships with growers and their focus on stringent quality standards have helped them maintain a solid reputation in the food manufacturing industry.

8. Babynov USA

• Website: global-baby.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: babynov-usa

Babynov USA, based in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, is a private company dedicated to the baby food market in the United States. Founded in 2021, it draws on the extensive experience of its parent company, Materna, which has over 25 years of expertise in baby nutrition. Babynov USA offers a variety of products tailored to the nutritional needs of infants and toddlers, including fruit stews, vegetable purees, and complete baby meals. The company operates a state-of-the-art production facility in Tennessee, emphasizing quality and safety throughout its manufacturing processes. They provide both private label and national brand products, ensuring compliance with the latest regulations. Their integrated R&D department continuously develops new recipes and products, reflecting their commitment to innovation in infant nutrition. Babynov USA aims to support retailers and distributors with customized solutions that cater to the specific needs of their customers.

9. Babynov Usa

• Website: babynov.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: babynov-us

Babynov USA, LLC is a private baby food manufacturer located in Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee. Established in 2021, the company is dedicated to producing ready-to-eat baby food tailored for the American market. Drawing on over 25 years of expertise in baby nutrition from its parent company, Global Baby, Babynov USA emphasizes quality and innovation in its product offerings. The company operates a state-of-the-art facility designed to meet modern production standards, ensuring that their products are both safe and nutritious. Babynov USA is also committed to community engagement, actively participating in local philanthropic initiatives and fostering a workplace culture that values diversity and inclusion. With a focus on organic baby food, Babynov USA aims to support the nutritional needs of infants while contributing positively to the community.

10. Unaka Company Inc.

• Website: unaka.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Greeneville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1959
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: unaka-corporation

Unaka Company Inc., based in Greeneville, Tennessee, is a private firm that operates within the food and beverage industry. Founded in 1959, the company has developed a family of brands, including Sopakco Packaging and Meco Corporation. Unaka specializes in the production of meals ready to eat (MREs), primarily for military use, and has built a reputation for quality and reliability in this sector. Sopakco, a key brand under Unaka, has been a prominent supplier of MREs, serving both military and civilian customers. Additionally, Unaka engages in contract manufacturing and distribution services, further solidifying its role in the food processing landscape. The company also has a division, Crown Point, which supplies ingredients to food processors and quality products to retail markets. With a workforce of 34 employees, Unaka continues to operate actively in its industry, focusing on food processing and packaging solutions.

11. Develey Mustard & Condiments Corporation

• Website: develeyusa.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Dyersburg, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 90%, Poland 10%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: develeyusa

Develey Mustard & Condiments Corporation, established in 2017 and based in Dyersburg, Tennessee, is a family-owned food manufacturer specializing in a variety of condiments, including mustards, dressings, and sauces. The company operates a modern manufacturing facility and emphasizes quality and innovation in its product offerings. With a commitment to serving both the food retail and service industries, Develey partners with businesses to deliver high-quality products tailored to customer needs. Their heritage traces back to Bavaria, where the Develey brand has been synonymous with quality since 1845. Today, they export to over 65 countries and have established a presence in the U.S. market, focusing on private label opportunities and custom product development. Their operational strategy includes a strong emphasis on customer service and product excellence, ensuring they meet and exceed market expectations.

12. Knott's Foods

• Website: knottsfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Paris, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: knotts-foods

Knott's Foods, officially known as Knott's Fine Foods, Inc, is a food manufacturer and distributor based in Paris, Tennessee. Established in 1947 by Cedric and Mildred Knott, the company began with a simple idea: to produce and sell homemade salads, spreads, and sandwiches. Over the years, Knott's has expanded its product line to include a variety of food items such as chicken salad, dips, pickled products, and pimiento cheese. The company caters to both retail and food service customers, emphasizing convenience and quality in its offerings. Knott's Foods operates with a small team of around 19 employees, maintaining a strong local presence while serving customers across the nation. Their commitment to using real ingredients and providing exceptional customer service has helped them carve out a niche in the competitive food manufacturing industry.

13. Empire Packing Company

• Website: empirepk.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, India 4%
• Latest funding: $238.0M, February 2020
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: empire-packing

Empire Packing Company, established in 1987 and located in Memphis, Tennessee, is a prominent entity in the meat processing industry. Specializing in retail case-ready meats, the company produces a variety of products including beef, chicken, and pork. With a workforce of approximately 1,250 employees, Empire Packing is capable of producing around 6 million pounds of case-ready meats each week. Their operations include custom food processing and packaging services, catering to some of the top grocery chains in the United States. In 2020, Empire Packing was acquired by JBS USA, which has further strengthened its market position and operational efficiency. The company is committed to sustainability and responsible production practices, reflecting a growing trend in the food manufacturing sector.

14. McKee Foods Corporation

• Website: mckeefoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Collegedale, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: mckee-foods-corporation

McKee Foods Corporation, based in Collegedale, Tennessee, is a family-owned food manufacturer recognized primarily for its snack products, especially the Little Debbie brand. Established in 1934 by O.D. and Ruth McKee, the company has grown to employ over 6,700 individuals across its various manufacturing facilities. McKee Foods specializes in producing baked goods that evoke nostalgia and joy among consumers, emphasizing quality and employee satisfaction. The company operates multiple manufacturing plants and a distribution center, ensuring efficient production and delivery of its products. McKee Foods is committed to community engagement and employee development, offering various career opportunities and promoting a culture of respect and innovation. Their focus on profit-sharing and employee welfare reflects a dedication to creating a positive work environment, which is often a hallmark of successful family-owned businesses in the food sector.

15. The ICEE Company

• Website: icee.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: La Vergne, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Mexico 6%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: the-icee-company

The ICEE Company, based in La Vergne, Tennessee, is a prominent beverage manufacturer specializing in frozen carbonated beverages and Italian ice pops. Established in 1967, the company has carved out a niche in the frozen treat market, appealing to consumers looking for refreshing and fun options. With a workforce of around 719 employees, ICEE operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in Mexico and other countries. The company distributes its products globally, catering to both retail and food service sectors. ICEE is recognized for its innovative flavors and promotional partnerships, such as its recent collaboration with Kellogg's to create a frozen treat inspired by Froot Loops. This commitment to product development and customer engagement underscores its active role in the food manufacturing industry.

16. Chattanooga Bakery, Inc.

• Website: moonpie.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chattanooga-bakery-inc.

Chattanooga Bakery, Inc., established in 1917, is a family-owned snack food manufacturer based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The company is best known for its iconic MoonPie products, which combine marshmallow, graham, and chocolate in a unique treat that has captured the hearts of many. Over the years, Chattanooga Bakery has expanded its product line to include various flavors and sizes of MoonPies, catering to a wide audience. The company also offers personalized options for gifting, enhancing its appeal in the consumer market. With a production capacity of about a million MoonPies daily, Chattanooga Bakery remains a significant player in the snack food industry, maintaining its relevance through innovation and a strong connection to its heritage. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that relies on its established brand and loyal customer base.

17. Monterey Mushrooms, LLC

• Website: montereymushrooms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Loudon, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 82%, Mexico 18%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: monterey-mushrooms

Monterey Mushrooms, LLC, founded in 1971, specializes in the production and distribution of a wide range of mushrooms, including fresh, dried, and specialty varieties. The company operates primarily in the United States and Mexico, employing around 437 individuals. Monterey Mushrooms caters to various sectors, including consumers, retailers, and foodservice providers, emphasizing the nutritional value and culinary potential of mushrooms. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their practices, which aim to enhance the health benefits of their products. The company also offers unique products like vitamin D-enhanced mushrooms, addressing modern dietary needs. With a focus on quality and innovation, Monterey Mushrooms continues to play a significant role in the food manufacturing industry.

18. St Clair Foods Inc

• Website: stclair.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2024
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: st-clair-foods-inc

St Clair Foods Inc, based in Memphis, Tennessee, is a food manufacturer that specializes in refrigerated deli salads and frozen side dishes. Established in 1975, the company has grown from its humble beginnings to become a notable supplier in the foodservice industry. St Clair Foods focuses on providing high-quality, ready-to-serve products that cater to restaurants and catering services. Their offerings include a variety of salads, side dishes, and entrees, all made with a commitment to using the finest ingredients. The company emphasizes food safety and quality, maintaining rigorous standards that are certified by SQF Level II and inspected by USDA and FDA. St Clair Foods has also expanded its market presence through partnerships with retailers like Sam's Club, where they supply products under the Member's Mark label, and they have a notable presence on QVC, showcasing their products to a broader audience. This strategic positioning highlights their active role in the food manufacturing industry.

19. Stratas Foods

• Website: stratasfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bartlett, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: stratas-foods

Stratas Foods, founded in 2009 and based in Bartlett, Tennessee, is a food manufacturer that specializes in the production of fats, oils, mayonnaise, dressings, and sauces. The company serves a variety of clients, including foodservice operators, food manufacturers, and retail chains across North America. Stratas Foods is dedicated to providing high-quality products tailored to meet the specific needs of its customers in food preparation and ingredient supply. The company operates multiple plants and emphasizes research and development, ensuring that they stay competitive in the market. Their product offerings include a range of oils and dressings, catering to both branded and private label markets. Stratas Foods is committed to sustainability and community engagement, reflecting a responsible approach to business in the food manufacturing sector.

Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Tennessee

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Bush Brothers & Company	Knoxville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	501-1000	1908	Private
Monogram Foods	Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2004	Venture Capital
Red's All Natural	Franklin, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2009	Private Equity
Standard Functional Foods Group, Inc.	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	11-50	1999	Corporate
Crown Bakeries	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1996	Private Equity
Synergy Food Group	Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Private
Moody Dunbar, Inc.	Johnson, Tennessee, United States (USA)	201-500	1933	Private
Babynov USA	Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2021	Private
Babynov Usa	Red Boiling Springs, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2021	Private
Unaka Company Inc.	Greeneville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	11-50	1959	Private
Develey Mustard & Condiments Corporation	Dyersburg, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	2017	Family Owned
Knott's Foods	Paris, Tennessee, United States (USA)	11-50	1947	Private
Empire Packing Company	Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1987	Corporate
McKee Foods Corporation	Collegedale, Tennessee, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1934	Family Owned
The ICEE Company	La Vergne, Tennessee, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1967	Private
Chattanooga Bakery, Inc.	Chattanooga, Tennessee, United States (USA)	51-200	1917	Family Owned
Monterey Mushrooms, LLC	Loudon, Tennessee, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1971	Private
St Clair Foods Inc	Memphis, Tennessee, United States (USA)	201-500	1975	Corporate
Stratas Foods	Bartlett, Tennessee, United States (USA)	501-1000	2009	Private

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