Food processing companies in Georgia play a vital role in transforming raw agricultural products into finished goods. This industry caters to various sectors, including poultry, meat, and specialty foods. Companies vary significantly in size and function, with many producing items for local grocers and national supply chains. The future looks bright as innovation drives growth, with a shift toward healthier options and sustainability. Local producers are focusing more on community-supported agriculture, which enhances food safety, and supports regional economic resilience, reflecting consumers' growing preference for locally sourced products and ethical practices.

The listed companies represent a range of sizes from small to large, operating primarily within the poultry and meat sectors. Founded from 1947 to 2018, many of these family-owned and corporate organizations are headquartered across Georgia, including towns like Gainesville and Alpharetta. Companies such as Golden Peanut and Claxton Poultry highlight the focus on sustainable practices and high-quality food production, catering to a vast market domestically and abroad. Their diverse specializations reflect the dynamic nature of the state’s food processing industry.

Continue reading to explore the top food processing companies in Georgia.

Top 19 Food Processing Companies Companies in Georgia

1. Golden Peanut

• Website: goldenpeanut.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Alpharetta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, Argentina 23%, Other 3%
• Latest funding: February 2019
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: golden-peanut

Golden Peanut Company, founded in 1986 and based in Alpharetta, Georgia, is a manufacturer specializing in peanut products. The company produces a range of offerings, including raw peanuts, peanut oil, peanut flour, and hull and fiber products. Golden Peanut serves businesses in the food manufacturing sector, supplying high-quality ingredients that adhere to nutritional and safety standards. Their operations extend beyond the U.S. to Argentina, reflecting a global footprint in the peanut industry. The company emphasizes sustainability and food safety, partnering with growers and processors to deliver superior products. Golden Peanut is committed to supporting regenerative agricultural practices, which enhance productivity while minimizing environmental impact. Their processing facilities are equipped with advanced technology, ensuring rigorous quality control at every stage of production. This dedication to quality and sustainability positions Golden Peanut as a key player in the food processing industry.

2. Fieldale Farms Corporation

• Website: fieldale.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Alto, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: fieldale-farms-corporation

Fieldale Farms Corporation, founded in 1972 and based in Alto, Georgia, is a family-owned poultry producer specializing in chicken products. With a workforce of approximately 887 employees, the company has grown significantly over the past five decades. Fieldale operates primarily in Northeast Georgia, where it produces a wide range of chicken products, including whole birds, cut-up parts, and further processed options like breaded and marinated items. The company serves both domestic and international markets, shipping to over fifty countries worldwide. Fieldale is recognized for its commitment to quality, utilizing modern equipment and technology to ensure the health and safety of consumers. Additionally, the company has established a strong presence in the private label sector, supplying major grocery chains with high-quality chicken products tailored to their specifications. This focus on quality and customer partnership underscores Fieldale's role in the food processing industry.

3. Claxton Poultry Co

• Website: claxtonpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Baxley, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: claxton-poultry-co

Claxton Poultry Co, based in Baxley, Georgia, is a family-owned poultry producer that has been in operation since 1949. The company focuses on the processing and distribution of high-quality, all-natural chicken products. With a workforce of approximately 1,600 employees, Claxton Poultry operates multiple facilities, including a processing plant, feed mill, and hatcheries. They produce around 450 million pounds of chicken annually, serving approximately 550 active customers, ranging from local restaurants to national chains like Chick-fil-A and KFC. Claxton Poultry is committed to maintaining high standards of safety and quality, as evidenced by their numerous awards for food safety and environmental practices. Their mission emphasizes delivering fresh products while ensuring community involvement and environmental stewardship. Claxton Poultry also exports a significant volume of chicken products to international markets, showcasing their operational scale and industry engagement.

4. Harrison Poultry, Inc.

• Website: harrisonpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Bethlehem, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: harrison-poultry-inc

Harrison Poultry, Inc. is a family-owned poultry producer based in Bethlehem, Georgia, established in 1958. The company specializes in the processing and sale of chicken products, producing around 380 million live pounds of chicken each year. Their product offerings include Golden Goodness, Pollo Eldorado, and Al Marwah halal chicken, catering to a wide range of customers, including retailers and food service providers. Harrison Poultry is recognized for its commitment to quality, utilizing a unique soft scalding process that enhances the flavor and appearance of their chicken. The company has invested in modernizing its processing facilities, including a new state-of-the-art feed mill, which positions them to meet growing customer demands. Harrison Poultry also emphasizes sustainability and community engagement, contributing significantly to the local economy and supporting agricultural education initiatives. Their operational focus and community ties underscore their importance in the food processing industry.

5. Watkins Associated Industries

• Website: watkins.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: May 2006
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: watkins-associated-industries

Watkins Associated Industries is a corporate entity based in Atlanta, Georgia, founded in 1961. The company operates across multiple sectors, including food processing, environmental consulting, transportation, real estate, and insurance services. Within the food processing industry, Watkins is involved through its subsidiaries, such as Tampa Maid Foods, which specializes in importing and processing frozen shrimp, and Cox’s Wholesale Seafood, which focuses on domestic shrimp processing. These companies serve a nationwide market, catering to food service distributors and grocery chains. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees and a commitment to operational excellence, Watkins aims to create long-term value by managing and growing its portfolio of businesses. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model without reliance on external financial support.

6. Thermo Pac

• Website: thermopacllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stone Mountain, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: thermo-pac

Thermo Pac, LLC, based in Stone Mountain, Georgia, is a food processing company that has been operational since 1988. The firm specializes in the development, processing, packaging, and distribution of high-quality shelf-stable food products. They cater to a variety of clients, including major branded food companies, food service providers, and the United States Department of Defense. Thermo Pac is known for its innovative solutions in portion control packaging, offering a range of products that include beverages, condiments, dressings, and specialty items. Their manufacturing capabilities include both hot-fill and cold-fill processes, allowing them to produce a wide array of food products tailored to specific dietary and packaging requirements. The company also plays a significant role in humanitarian efforts, producing Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Foods distributed globally to combat malnutrition. With a workforce of around 65 employees, Thermo Pac emphasizes quality, safety, and community support in its operations.

7. Gold Creek Foods

• Website: goldcreekfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gainesville, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: goldcreekfoods

Gold Creek Foods, based in Gainesville, Georgia, is a private poultry processing company that specializes in chicken products. Established in 2000, the company has evolved from a small operation to a significant player in the poultry industry, with multiple processing facilities and a workforce of over 3,400 employees. Gold Creek Foods offers a wide range of products, including fresh and fully cooked chicken, custom processing services, and solutions tailored for K-12 nutrition programs. Their customer base includes schools and retail businesses that require high-quality food products to meet nutritional standards. The company emphasizes innovation and operational excellence, striving to exceed customer expectations while maintaining a focus on sustainability and community engagement.

8. Norsan

• Website: norsan.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Duluth, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Mexico 11%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: norsangroup

Norsan, founded in 1987 and based in Duluth, Georgia, operates as a restaurant group with a strong presence in foodservice, food distribution, and media. The company runs several restaurant concepts, including Frankie’s the Steakhouse, Pampas Steakhouse, Luciano’s Ristorante, and Frontera Mex-Mex Grill, catering to a variety of culinary tastes. A significant aspect of Norsan's operations is Prime Meats, its meat processing and distribution arm, which has been serving the Southeastern U.S. since 1992. Prime Meats provides high-quality meat products to restaurants, grocery stores, and butcher shops, and has adapted to market demands by launching an online storefront in 2019. Additionally, Norsan Media targets Hispanic markets through various media channels, further expanding the company's reach and influence. With a workforce of around 501-1000 employees, Norsan continues to grow and adapt in a competitive industry.

9. Buckhead Beef Company

• Website: buckheadbeef.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: College Park, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: August 1999
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: buckhead-beef

Buckhead Beef Company, founded in 1983 and based in College Park, Georgia, is a prominent player in the meat processing industry. The company specializes in providing high-quality beef products to a variety of sectors, including restaurants, hotels, and food service operations. With a commitment to quality and customer service, Buckhead Beef ensures that its products meet the highest standards. They offer a range of beef cuts and custom processing options, catering to the specific needs of their clients. As part of Sysco, a major food distribution company, Buckhead Beef benefits from a robust distribution network, enhancing its ability to serve customers effectively. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability in its operations since its founding.

10. Soulshine Farms, LLC.

• Website: soulshinefarms.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gainesville, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: soulshinefarms

Soulshine Farms, LLC is a poultry further processor based in Gainesville, Georgia. Established in 2018, the company has rapidly grown to become a notable player in the poultry processing industry. They specialize in a variety of further processing applications, including hand portioning, automated machine portioning, deboning, and custom packaging solutions. With a production space of nearly 100,000 square feet, Soulshine Farms operates two raw processing plants that produce over 4 million pounds of sized poultry protein products each week. Their clientele includes food service providers, retailers, and other businesses that require high-quality poultry products. The company prides itself on its commitment to food safety, innovation, and customer service, aiming to exceed industry standards and customer expectations. Soulshine Farms also emphasizes the importance of its workforce, viewing employees as key assets in delivering quality products and services.

11. Twin Rivers Food

• Website: 2river.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Buford, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $5.4M, September 2020
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: twin-rivers-food

Twin Rivers Food, founded in 1992 and based in Buford, Georgia, is a private poultry processor that specializes in high-quality chicken products. The company serves a variety of clients in the food service and retail sectors, offering a range of products including ready-to-cook chicken, marinated options, and specialty portions. With a strong emphasis on flexibility and customer service, Twin Rivers aims to deliver superior food experiences. Their operations are supported by a dedicated team with extensive experience in poultry sales, production, and procurement. The company has also received funding of $5.4 million in 2020, which reflects their ongoing commitment to growth and innovation in the poultry processing industry.

12. Sapna Foods, Inc.

• Website: sapnafoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Atlanta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sapna-foods-inc

Sapna Foods, Inc. is a family-owned specialty food distributor based in Atlanta, Georgia, founded in 1997. The company specializes in sourcing high-quality ingredients from around the globe, including premium vanilla, exotic mushrooms, and a wide variety of spices and herbs. They offer a range of services such as milling, custom blending, and packaging, catering to manufacturers, extractors, and distributors in the food industry. With a focus on quality and competitive pricing, Sapna Foods ensures that their clients have access to the finest specialty foods. Their operations are supported by a dedicated quality control team that adheres to rigorous safety standards, including Level 2 Safe Quality Food Institute (SQF2) certification. This commitment to quality and direct relationships with growers allows them to provide top-notch products while supporting local communities worldwide.

13. NutraSweet

• Website: nutrasweet.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Augusta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2018
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: the-nutrasweet-company

NutraSweet, founded in 1985 and based in Augusta, Georgia, specializes in the production of natural, zero-calorie sweeteners, particularly NutraSweetM™, which is derived from the stevia plant. The company serves various sectors within the food and beverage industry, helping businesses reduce sugar content while maintaining flavor. NutraSweetM™ is noted for its superior taste profile compared to other stevia-based sweeteners, making it suitable for applications in beverages, dairy, confectionery, bakery, and nutrition products. The company emphasizes sustainability in its production processes, aiming to minimize environmental impact while meeting the growing demand for healthier food options. NutraSweet operates with a dedicated team focused on research and development, ensuring that their products meet the evolving needs of health-conscious consumers.

14. WTI Inc.

• Website: wtiinc.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Jefferson, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: wti-inc-

WTI Inc., also known as World Technology Ingredients, was founded in 1989 and is based in Jefferson, Georgia. The company specializes in providing functional food ingredients that enhance food safety, quality, and shelf-life for food manufacturers and processors. With a strong emphasis on innovation, WTI collaborates closely with clients to develop tailored solutions for a variety of food applications. Their product offerings include naturally-derived and clean label ingredients, primarily utilizing vinegar and lemon as base components. WTI serves multiple sectors, including meat, poultry, seafood, prepared foods, sauces, dips, dressings, and even pet food. The company prides itself on its customer service and the expertise of its team, which includes food scientists and culinary professionals. WTI has also expanded its reach internationally, establishing a subsidiary in Germany to cater to markets in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

15. Tip Top Poultry, Inc

• Website: tiptoppoultry.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Marietta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: tip-top-poultry-inc

Tip Top Poultry, Inc., based in Marietta, Georgia, is a family-owned poultry processing company founded in 1947. The company specializes in providing high-quality raw and cooked poultry products, serving a wide range of customers including food processors and distributors. With a workforce of approximately 501 employees, Tip Top has built a reputation for quality and service, ensuring customer satisfaction in the food industry. The company has evolved over the years, transitioning from broiler processing to focusing on heavy breeder hens and roosters, which are the parent stock of broilers. Today, Tip Top is recognized as a major processor and marketer of cooked and raw poultry products, supplying both retail and food service sectors. Their products are utilized in various applications, from prepared foods to restaurant offerings, showcasing their integral role in the poultry processing industry.

16. Mar-Jac Poultry

• Website: marjacpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gainesville, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1954
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: mar-jac-poultry

Mar-Jac Poultry, headquartered in Gainesville, Georgia, is a poultry processing company that has been in operation since 1954. Founded by brothers Marvin and Jack McKibbon, the company started as a small processing plant aimed at serving local growers. Over the years, Mar-Jac has evolved into a fully integrated poultry production entity, managing the entire process from raising chickens to processing and distributing poultry products. They focus on the food service industry, providing a range of chicken products, including standard cuts and specialty items. Mar-Jac Poultry is committed to food safety and quality, working with the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection Service to ensure compliance with federal standards. The company has also received notable certifications, including an A level certification from the British Retail Consortium under the Global Food Safety Initiative, highlighting their dedication to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality assurance. Additionally, Mar-Jac Poultry has been recognized for its animal welfare practices, receiving a 100% rating for compliance with the National Chicken Council's standards. Their operations include a state-of-the-art feed mill and a processing facility capable of handling millions of chickens weekly, underscoring their significant role in the poultry industry.

17. Crider Foods

• Website: criderfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Stillmore, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: crider-inc.

Crider Foods, based in Stillmore, Georgia, is a family-owned food manufacturer that specializes in canned and fully cooked meat products. Established in 1977, the company has grown to become a significant player in the food processing sector, particularly known for its canned chicken, turkey, ham, pork, and beef products. Crider Foods serves a wide array of customers, including retail, foodservice, and institutional sectors, providing high-quality, shelf-stable products. The company operates modern facilities equipped with advanced technology, ensuring they meet the increasing demand for their offerings. Their commitment to food safety is highlighted by their SQF Level 3 certification, and they hold various certifications, including EU, Halal, and USDA Organic. Crider Foods also emphasizes sustainability and community involvement through initiatives that support healthy children and environmental stewardship.

18. Legendary Meats LLC

• Website: legendarymeats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marietta, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: legendary-meats-llc

Legendary Meats LLC, founded in 2010 and based in Marietta, Georgia, is a private meat supplier that focuses on custom cuts and flavor profile products tailored for foodservice and retail operators. The company offers a comprehensive range of meat products, including beef, poultry, pork, veal, lamb, seafood, and dry goods. They pride themselves on delivering high-quality products at competitive prices, supported by exceptional customer service. Legendary Meats operates a robust distribution network that spans several states, including Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, and North Florida. Their fleet of refrigerated trucks ensures timely delivery while maintaining strict quality and food safety standards. As a USDA inspected plant, Legendary Meats emphasizes compliance with industry regulations, further solidifying their role in the food processing industry.

19. Fuji Vegetable Oil Inc

• Website: fujioilusa.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Savannah, Georgia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Ghana 3%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fuji-vegetable-oil-inc

Fuji Vegetable Oil Inc, established in 1987 and located in Savannah, Georgia, is a manufacturer of specialty oils and fats tailored for the food industry. The company produces a wide range of products that serve critical roles in the confectionery, baking, and snack sectors. Their offerings include cocoa butter alternatives, frying fats, and various formulations designed to enhance food texture and flavor. Fuji Vegetable Oil operates a state-of-the-art refinery, emphasizing safety, quality, and environmental integrity in its processes. The company is committed to sustainable sourcing, utilizing palm and coconut oils, and has been a certified member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil since 2012. Their research and development efforts focus on creating innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers, ensuring they remain a relevant player in the food processing industry.

Food Processing Companies Insights: Key Companies in Georgia

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