California's seafood processing industry is vibrant and evolving, focusing on sustainability while meeting the demand for fresh seafood. Companies in the sector range from small, innovative startups to established family businesses, offering an array of products including fresh fish, canned goods, and cultured seafood options. With growing concerns over overfishing and environmental impacts, there's a shift toward responsible sourcing and advanced cultivation techniques. This sector is poised for growth as consumers increasingly seek transparency and environmentally friendly options in their seafood, highlighting the importance of sustainability and quality in today’s market.

The companies highlighted here vary in size from small startups to large enterprises, located throughout California. Founded between the mid-20th century and recent years, these firms excel at different specialties such as cell-cultured seafood, distribution, and processing. Noteworthy examples include Santa Monica Seafood, known for its local sourcing, and BlueNalu, which focuses on innovative seafood alternatives. Each company reflects a blend of tradition and modern practices, adapting to consumer preferences while maintaining high quality standards.

Continue reading to discover the top seafood processing companies in California.

Top 19 Seafood Processing Companies in California

1. BlueNalu

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

BlueNalu, Inc., founded in 2017 and based in San Diego, California, is a seafood producer that specializes in cell-cultured seafood products. The company is dedicated to providing sustainable and high-quality seafood alternatives, starting with bluefin tuna toro. BlueNalu's innovative approach allows them to produce seafood directly from fish cells, which helps to mitigate the environmental impact associated with overfishing and contamination found in conventional seafood. Their target customers include restaurants and chefs who are looking to offer nutritious seafood options while addressing the pressing issues of ocean health. Recently, BlueNalu secured $33.5 million in Series B funding, indicating strong investor confidence in their mission and technology. The company operates with a commitment to safety, transparency, and sustainability, aiming to revolutionize the seafood industry by providing consistent, safe, and high-quality products that support ocean regeneration.

2. Santa Monica Seafood

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

Santa Monica Seafood, a family-owned business established in 1939, operates as a seafood distributor specializing in wholesale seafood products for restaurants and grocery stores. With a workforce of approximately 309 employees, the company has built a robust distribution network across the Southwestern United States, ensuring the delivery of fresh seafood six days a week. Their operations include custom processing and packaging, catering to the specific needs of their business customers. Santa Monica Seafood is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, being the first seafood distributor to partner with the Monterey Bay Aquarium to apply sustainability rankings to its inventory. The company holds several certifications, including FSSC 22000 for food safety management and ISO 14001 for environmental management, underscoring its dedication to quality and responsible sourcing. With facilities spanning 350,000 square feet and a focus on local fish, Santa Monica Seafood has positioned itself as a trusted supplier in the seafood industry.

3. Nautilus Seafood

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

Nautilus Seafood, founded in 1974 and based in Wilmington, California, is a seafood distributor and processor. The company specializes in the import, export, and distribution of a variety of seafood products, including calamari, mackerel, and sardines. Nautilus Seafood operates its own fishing vessels, which allows them to source fresh seafood directly from the ocean. Their processing plant, located near Long Beach Harbor, plays a crucial role in maintaining the quality of their products. The company serves a range of clients, including restaurants, distributors, hotels, and markets, ensuring that high-quality seafood is delivered consistently. Nautilus Seafood's commitment to proper handling, processing, and packaging is evident in their daily product offerings, which feature premium seafood at competitive prices. They also have a robust distribution network that facilitates daily deliveries across the United States and supports international exports, making them a notable player in the global seafood supply chain.

4. Lotus Seafood Inc USA

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

Lotus Seafood Inc USA, based in Oceanside, California, is a private seafood supplier that has been operational since 2006. The company specializes in the import, export, and sales of a wide range of seafood products, including shrimp, fish, shellfish, and specialty items. They cater primarily to foodservice providers, distributors, retail chains, and restaurants, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality frozen seafood year-round. Lotus Seafood is committed to sustainability, sourcing its products from environmentally responsible sources and maintaining transparency in its supply chains. The company operates a production facility in Oceanside, California, and has been certified under the Marine Stewardship Council’s Chain of Custody Standards, reinforcing its dedication to sustainable seafood practices. With a distribution network that spans the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, China, and Europe, Lotus Seafood is positioned as a significant player in the seafood industry, processing and distributing over 30,000 tons of seafood annually.

5. Luxe Seafood Company

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

Luxe Seafood Company, founded in 2015 and based in Los Angeles, California, operates as a private seafood distributor. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company specializes in sourcing and distributing fresh and sustainable seafood primarily to culinary professionals, including chefs and restaurants. Luxe Seafood emphasizes quality by fostering strong relationships with the fishing community, ensuring a steady supply of premium seafood products. Their offerings include a variety of seafood, from wild-caught fish to sustainably farmed options, catering to the needs of chefs who require high-quality ingredients for their culinary creations. The company is dedicated to maintaining freshness through disciplined processing and logistics, which is crucial in the seafood industry. Luxe Seafood's commitment to sustainability and quality positions it as a notable player in the seafood processing sector.

6. Chicken of the Sea

• Website: chickenofthesea.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: El Segundo, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1914
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: chicken-of-the-sea

Chicken of the Sea, based in El Segundo, California, is a prominent seafood brand that has been in operation since 1914. The company specializes in the packaging and distribution of a wide range of seafood products, including tuna, salmon, sardines, crab, oysters, clams, mackerel, and shrimp. Catering to both consumers and the food service industry, Chicken of the Sea focuses on providing convenient and nutritious meal options. Their products are designed for quick meal preparation, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The company also emphasizes sustainability through its SeaChange® initiative, which aims to support both environmental and social responsibility in their operations. With a workforce of approximately 479 employees, Chicken of the Sea remains a significant player in the seafood processing sector, committed to quality and innovation.

7. Az Gems INC

• Website: azgems.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Redlands, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 50%, United States (USA) 50%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: az-gems-inc

Az Gems INC, based in Redlands, California, is a family-owned seafood importer and distributor established in 1998. The company specializes in the aquaculture of shrimp and a variety of frozen seafood products. They serve clients in the food service and retail sectors, ensuring high-quality seafood through a reliable supply chain. Az Gems operates with a commitment to sustainability, sourcing seafood from certified suppliers and adhering to strict food safety protocols. Their logistics capabilities allow them to efficiently distribute products across the United States, with strategically located warehouses in major cities. The company is a member of the Global Seafood Alliance, reflecting its dedication to responsible seafood practices. With a workforce split between the USA and India, Az Gems maintains a global perspective while focusing on local market needs.

8. Ocean Brands

• Website: oceanbrands.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richmond, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 95%, Portugal 5%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ocean-brands

Ocean Brands, founded in 1962 and based in Richmond, California, is a private company that specializes in seafood and gourmet food products. Known for its brands such as Ocean’s, Gold Seal, and Millionnaires, the company offers a variety of items including canned seafood and pasta sauces. Ocean Brands emphasizes sustainable sourcing and ethical practices, ensuring that their products not only meet high-quality standards but also contribute positively to the environment. The company operates with a commitment to community engagement and environmental responsibility, which is reflected in their B Corp certification obtained in 2019. This certification signifies their dedication to balancing profit with purpose, considering the impact of their operations on all stakeholders. Ocean Brands also actively participates in initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting responsible fishing practices, further solidifying their role in the seafood industry.

9. Pacific American Fish Company (PAFCO)

• Website: pafco.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, Philippines 17%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: pacific-american-fish-co-

Pacific American Fish Company (PAFCO), founded in 1977 and based in Vernon, California, is a private seafood supplier that specializes in a wide range of seafood products. The company offers items such as dried fish, shrimp, and cephalopods, primarily serving businesses in the food service and retail industries. PAFCO is committed to providing high-quality seafood to meet the culinary needs of its clients. The company employs around 120 people, with a significant portion of its workforce based in the United States and a smaller percentage in the Philippines. PAFCO's operations include importing, warehousing, processing, and distribution, which are critical functions in the seafood supply chain. Their focus on sustainability and transparency in supply chains further enhances their standing in the industry.

10. Royal Hawaiian Seafood

• Website: sfrhs.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: royal-hawaiian-seafood

Royal Hawaiian Seafood, established in 1984, is a family-owned seafood supplier based in South San Francisco, California. The company specializes in a wide array of seafood products, including fish, shellfish, and specialty items, catering to both retail consumers and businesses in the food service sector. With a strong emphasis on sustainability, Royal Hawaiian Seafood sources its products responsibly, working directly with fishermen and producers from around the globe. Their commitment to quality is evident in their partnerships with renowned chefs and their participation in environmental initiatives aimed at preserving marine resources. The company operates a retail shop and offers wholesale services, ensuring that their seafood is not only high-quality but also traceable and tested for safety. Their focus on community engagement and education about sustainable practices further solidifies their position in the seafood industry.

11. Wild Planet Foods

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

Wild Planet Foods, founded in 2004 and based in McKinleyville, California, is a private company that specializes in sustainably sourced canned seafood products. The company offers a range of items, including tuna, sardines, salmon, and ready-to-eat meals, catering primarily to health-conscious consumers. Wild Planet emphasizes its commitment to sustainable fishing practices, partnering with small-scale fishermen who utilize environmentally friendly methods. Their products are known for being minimally processed, which helps retain essential nutrients and flavor. The company has built a reputation for quality and sustainability, appealing to a growing market of consumers who prioritize health and environmental responsibility. Wild Planet Foods has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model.

12. Hog Island Oyster Co

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

Hog Island Oyster Co. is a private seafood company based in San Francisco, California, specializing in oysters and shellfish. Founded in 1983, the company has grown to employ between 201 and 500 people, reflecting its significant presence in the industry. Hog Island operates several oyster bars and retail locations, including the Hog Shack and The Boat Oyster Bar, where they offer fresh seafood products directly to consumers and businesses. Their commitment to sustainability is a core aspect of their operations, as they engage in responsible farming practices and collaborate with scientists to monitor ocean conditions. The company also provides farm tours and educational resources, further solidifying its role in promoting sustainable seafood practices. Hog Island Oyster Co. has not reported any recent funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model that focuses on quality and environmental stewardship.

13. Wildtype

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

Wildtype, founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, California, is a seafood producer that specializes in cultivated salmon. The company is committed to providing sustainable seafood solutions through cellular agriculture, allowing them to produce high-quality, sushi-grade salmon without relying on traditional fishing methods. This innovative approach not only addresses the challenges of overfishing but also aims to reduce exposure to contaminants commonly found in seafood. Wildtype has garnered attention for its mission to transform the food system and has received significant funding, including a recent amount of approximately $7.5 million in late 2022. The company is actively involved in promoting sustainable practices and has partnered with organizations to protect wild salmon habitats, further solidifying its role in the seafood industry.

14. Crown Prince, Inc.

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

Crown Prince, Inc. is a privately owned canned seafood company based in Industry, California, with a workforce of approximately 28 employees. Established in 1948, the company has carved out a niche in the seafood processing industry by offering a wide array of products, including anchovies, clams, crab meat, and various types of tuna. Crown Prince emphasizes sustainability in its operations, ensuring that its seafood is sourced responsibly. The company also engages consumers with initiatives like recipes, coupons, and a frequent buyer program, enhancing customer loyalty. Their products are available through numerous retailers across the United States, reflecting their active role in the market.

15. Southwind Foods / Great American Seafood Imports Co.

• Website: southwindfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carson, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: southwind-foods-great-american-seafood

Southwind Foods / Great American Seafood Imports Co. is a seafood distributor and processor based in Carson, California. Founded in 1999, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality fresh and frozen seafood products. They cater to grocery, distributor, and food service customers, emphasizing sustainability and responsible sourcing in their operations. Southwind Foods processes a wide array of seafood, including shrimp, fin fish, and shellfish, and offers value-added products such as meal kits and skewers. Their processing facility spans 160,000 square feet and meets stringent food safety standards, ensuring that they deliver safe and traceable seafood. With a strong commitment to quality and customer service, Southwind Foods has established itself as a significant player in the seafood industry, selling over 120 million pounds of seafood each year and maintaining partnerships with suppliers from 15 countries.

16. Lusamerica Foods Inc

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

Lusamerica Foods Inc, based in Morgan Hill, California, is a family-owned seafood distributor that has been in operation since 1975. The company specializes in a wide array of seafood products, including fresh and frozen fish, shellfish, and value-added items. With a workforce of around 84 employees, Lusamerica serves grocery retailers, foodservice operators, and restaurants, providing high-quality seafood sourced from local fisheries along the West Coast. They operate multiple processing facilities, which enhances their ability to deliver products efficiently. Lusamerica is committed to sustainability, actively promoting local seafood and maintaining strong relationships with fishermen. Their focus on quality and customer service has established them as a reliable source of seafood in the market.

17. Alaska Seafood Co

• Website: alaskaseafoodcompany.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: June 2023
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: alaska-seafood-co

Alaska Seafood Company, based in Los Angeles, California, is a seafood provider that specializes in wild-caught Alaskan seafood. Founded in 1987, the company has built a reputation for offering a range of products, including frozen, smoked, and canned seafood. They cater to both consumers and businesses, emphasizing sustainability and quality in their sourcing practices. Alaska Seafood Co is proudly Native-owned, having been acquired by the Tlingit and Haida Corporation, which enhances their commitment to traditional practices and community involvement. The company is known for its innovative approach, being the first in Alaska to adopt retort pouch technology, allowing them to create shelf-stable smoked salmon products. Their offerings include a variety of seafood options, such as salmon, halibut, and black cod, all sourced from the pristine waters of Alaska. Alaska Seafood Co also prioritizes health, ensuring their products are free from farmed fish and artificial preservatives, appealing to health-conscious consumers.

18. Safe Catch

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

Safe Catch, founded in 2014 and based in Sausalito, California, is a seafood brand that specializes in canned seafood products, including tuna, salmon, sardines, and mackerel. The company is notable for its commitment to providing low-mercury options that are sustainably sourced, catering to health-conscious consumers and families. Safe Catch tests every tuna for mercury, adhering to a limit that is ten times stricter than the FDA's standards. This rigorous testing process ensures that their products meet high purity standards, which is particularly important for consumers concerned about mercury exposure. Additionally, Safe Catch is a partner of the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch, emphasizing their dedication to sustainable fishing practices. The company has received $5 million in seed funding as of February 2018, which supports its growth and innovation in the seafood processing sector.

19. Red Chamber Company

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

Red Chamber Company, based in Vernon, California, has been a significant player in the seafood industry since its founding in 1973. The company specializes in importing and processing seafood products, catering primarily to the food service and retail sectors. With a focus on high-quality seafood, Red Chamber operates several processing plants and cold storage facilities across the United States, ensuring they can meet customer demands effectively. Their operations are supported by sophisticated processing technology and a robust quality control program, which adheres to strict sanitation standards. Red Chamber is also noted for its commitment to HACCP compliance, reflecting their dedication to food safety and quality. The company’s extensive experience and operational infrastructure allow it to offer a wide range of seafood products, making it a notable entity in the seafood processing industry.

Seafood Processing Insights: Key Companies in California

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