California's food processing industry plays a vital role in transforming raw ingredients into consumable products. It features a wide array of companies—from large producers of dairy, meat, and packaged foods to innovative firms focused on plant-based alternatives and sustainable methods. As consumer preferences shift towards healthier and ethically-sourced options, many of these companies are adapting by incorporating cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. The industry is on a path towards enhanced quality control and eco-friendly production, responding to regulatory pressures and market demands for transparency.

The companies highlighted in this article span various sizes, from family-owned operations to large corporate entities. They are headquartered across California, established from 1910 to 2015, and specialize in products like meat, dairy, and organic snacks. Notably, the list includes companies like Sun-Maid Growers, well-known for their raisins, and Taylor Farms, providing fresh-cut produce.

Continue reading to discover notable food processing companies in California.

Top 21 Food Processing Companies in California

1. Sun-Maid Growers of California

• Website: sunmaid.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kingsburg, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1912
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: sun-maid-growers

Sun-Maid Growers of California is a prominent food processing company based in Kingsburg, California. Established in 1912, the company specializes in the production of raisins and dried fruits. It operates as a cooperative, consisting of around 850 family farmers who cultivate high-quality raisins in California's Central Valley. Sun-Maid's product offerings include a variety of raisins, dried fruits, and innovative snacks, such as yogurt-covered raisins and fruity raisin snacks. The company serves both retail consumers and businesses in the food industry, emphasizing quality and sustainability in its operations. Sun-Maid has maintained a strong presence in the market for over a century, adapting to consumer preferences while promoting the health benefits of dried fruits. Their commitment to quality and community involvement positions them as a significant player in the food processing sector.

2. Golden State Foods

• Website: goldenstatefoods.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Egypt 7%, New Zealand 4%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: August 2024
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: golden-state-foods

Golden State Foods (GSF), headquartered in Irvine, California, is a prominent foodservice supplier specializing in the processing and distribution of various food products, including liquid items, meat, dairy, and produce. Established in 1947, GSF has built a reputation for quality and service, particularly in the quick service restaurant (QSR) sector. The company operates multiple facilities worldwide, producing over a billion pounds of liquid products annually, which include sauces, dressings, and syrups. GSF's commitment to innovation is evident in their extensive research and development efforts, which have led to the creation of numerous signature products for their clients. They also emphasize food safety and quality, consistently achieving high ratings and awards in these areas. With a workforce of over 2,370 employees and a significant presence in the U.S. and international markets, GSF continues to play a vital role in the food processing industry.

3. Taylor Farms

• Website: taylorfarms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Salinas, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Mexico 7%, Canada 6%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: taylor-farms

Taylor Farms, founded in 1995 and based in Salinas, California, is a prominent food producer specializing in fresh-cut fruits and vegetables. The company offers a variety of products, including salads, vegetable meal kits, and grab-and-go snacks, catering to both consumers and food service businesses. Taylor Farms emphasizes the use of quality ingredients sourced from family farmers across North America, aiming to provide nutritious meal options. With a workforce exceeding 10,000 employees, the company has grown significantly since its inception, reflecting its strong position in the food processing industry. Their products are designed for convenience and health, appealing to a market increasingly focused on fresh and ready-to-eat food solutions.

4. Amy's Kitchen

• Website: amys.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Petaluma, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $6.0M, June 2022
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: amy%27s-kitchen

Amy's Kitchen, Inc. is a food manufacturer based in Petaluma, California, specializing in organic and vegetarian frozen foods. Founded in 1987, the company began with a simple mission: to create delicious, convenient meals using high-quality organic ingredients. Their product range includes burritos, pizzas, soups, and various entrees, catering to health-conscious consumers looking for quick meal options. Amy's Kitchen is notable for its commitment to sustainability and quality, operating without shareholders and focusing on the well-being of its customers, employees, and the environment. The company has also been proactive in supporting organic farming practices and has received funding, with a recent amount of $6 million reported in June 2022, which underscores its ongoing relevance and growth in the food processing sector.

5. Memphis Meats

• Website: memphismeats.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $161.0M, January 2020
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: memphis-meats

Memphis Meats, now operating under the name UPSIDE Foods, is a cultivated meat producer based in Berkeley, California. Founded in 2015, the company has pioneered the production of meat directly from animal cells, eliminating the need for raising and slaughtering animals. Their product line includes cultivated chicken, beef, and duck, aimed at both restaurants and consumers who prioritize humane and sustainable food options. UPSIDE Foods has made significant strides in the industry, being the first to cultivate a beef meatball and receiving FDA approval for their products. The company operates a state-of-the-art facility known as EPIC, designed to scale up production of cultivated meat. With a recent funding round of $400 million, UPSIDE Foods is well-positioned to expand its operations and product offerings, reflecting a growing interest in alternative protein sources.

6. Donald's Fine Foods

• Website: donaldsfinefoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Richmond, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: donald%27s-fine-foods

Donald's Fine Foods, founded in 1993 and based in Richmond, California, is a family-owned meat processing and distribution company. The firm specializes in high-quality meat products, including primal cuts, sausages, and further processed meats. With a workforce of over 1,100 employees, Donald's Fine Foods operates multiple facilities across Western Canada, ensuring that they meet strict food safety and quality protocols. They serve a wide array of customers, including retail grocery stores and food service providers, both locally and internationally. The company prides itself on its commitment to customer service, integrity, and quality, which are central to its operations. Donald's Fine Foods has established a strong presence in the market with recognized brands such as PrimRose Farms and Savoury Choice, and they actively engage in corporate responsibility initiatives, focusing on animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

7. California Dairies, Inc.

• Website: californiadairies.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Visalia, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $19.0M, October 2024
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: californiadairiesinc

California Dairies, Inc. (CDI), founded in 1999, is a family-owned dairy processing cooperative based in Visalia, California. The company is comprised of 300 member dairies, all family-operated, which collectively produce approximately 17 billion pounds of milk annually. CDI specializes in a range of dairy products, including butter, milk powder, nutritional milk powder, and fluid milk. They are responsible for a significant portion of California's dairy output, notably producing two-thirds of the state's butter and a substantial share of the nation's milk powder. CDI also emphasizes sustainability in its operations, ensuring that their practices are environmentally responsible. The cooperative structure allows member dairies to benefit from shared resources and market access, enhancing their profitability and stability in the competitive dairy market. Recently, CDI received a grant of $18,983,000, indicating ongoing support for their initiatives and operations.

8. Columbus Craft Meats

• Website: columbuscraftmeats.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hayward, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $850.0M, October 2017
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: columbus-foods_2

Columbus Craft Meats, established in 1917, is a prominent player in the deli and cured meats industry, based in Hayward, California. The company specializes in crafting premium products such as salami, deli meats, and charcuterie boards, catering to both consumers and businesses. Columbus Craft Meats prides itself on using high-quality cuts of meat and traditional recipes, ensuring that their products meet the expectations of discerning customers. Their commitment to quality is evident in their sourcing of natural ingredients and the meticulous processes they employ, such as slow-aging their salami and curing their Italian specialties. With a workforce of around 106 employees, Columbus Craft Meats continues to thrive in the competitive food processing sector, adapting to market demands while maintaining their heritage of craftsmanship.

9. Farmer John - Clougherty Packing, LLC

• Website: farmerjohn.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $145.0M, November 2016
• Founded year: 1931
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: clougherty-packing-llc

Farmer John - Clougherty Packing, LLC is a prominent meat processing company based in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1931, the company has built a strong reputation for producing a wide range of meat products, including bacon, sausages, ham, and hot dogs. Farmer John emphasizes quality and flavor, catering primarily to consumers looking for tasty and reliable options for their meals. The company is committed to local sourcing, which not only supports regional agriculture but also resonates with consumers who prioritize fresh and sustainable food choices. Farmer John also provides recipes on their website, enhancing the cooking experience for their customers. In 2016, the company secured $145 million in funding, indicating investor confidence in their operations and growth potential. As a subsidiary of Smithfield Foods, Farmer John benefits from the resources and expertise of a larger corporate structure while maintaining its unique brand identity.

10. Heat and Control Inc.

• Website: heatandcontrol.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Hayward, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 32%, Australia 25%, India 18%, Other 25%
• Latest funding: May 2013
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: heat-and-control

Heat and Control Inc. is an industrial equipment manufacturer based in Hayward, California, established in 1950. The company specializes in providing processing and packaging solutions primarily for the food processing and pharmaceutical industries. With a workforce of approximately 1,195 employees, Heat and Control designs and manufactures a wide array of equipment aimed at enhancing production efficiency and product quality. Their product offerings include systems for frying, baking, coating, and packaging, catering to various food categories such as snacks, bakery products, and meat. The company is committed to innovation, continuously developing new technologies to meet the evolving demands of the food industry. Their global operations span several countries, including Australia, India, and Mexico, reflecting their international market presence and expertise in food processing solutions.

11. Perfect Day

• Website: perfectdayfoods.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $90.0M, January 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: muufri-inc-

Perfect Day is a food technology company based in South San Francisco, California, founded in 2014. The company focuses on creating sustainable, animal-free dairy products using precision fermentation. Their flagship product, ProFerm™, is a whey protein that mimics the taste and texture of traditional dairy while being free from lactose, cholesterol, and hormones. Perfect Day partners with food manufacturers to integrate their innovative ingredients into a variety of products, including cream cheese, ice cream, and protein bars. The company has raised significant funding, with their latest round totaling $90 million in January 2024, indicating strong investor confidence in their mission to reshape the food industry towards more sustainable practices.

12. Pacific Coast Producers

• Website: pacificcoastproducers.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Lodi, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: pacific-coast-producers

Pacific Coast Producers, founded in 1971 and based in Lodi, California, is a family-owned agricultural cooperative that specializes in the canning of fruits and tomatoes. The company operates through a network of over 150 family farms located in Central and Northern California, emphasizing sustainable farming practices and high-quality produce. With a workforce of 1,001 to 5,000 employees, Pacific Coast Producers has established itself as a reliable supplier to grocery retailers and foodservice distributors. They offer a wide range of products, including diced tomatoes, peach halves, and fruit bowls, catering to both retail and foodservice sectors. Their commitment to quality is evident in their processing methods, which ensure that canned fruits and tomatoes are packed shortly after harvest, preserving freshness and flavor. The company serves over 45,000 grocery stores and 1.5 million foodservice outlets, demonstrating their significant presence in the food processing industry.

13. Golden West Food Group

• Website: gwfg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: golden-west-food-group

Golden West Food Group, based in Vernon, California, is a private food manufacturer and distributor that has been operational since 1970. The company specializes in high-quality fine food products, offering a wide array of fresh, frozen, and cooked items. They cater to both retail and food service customers, providing customized solutions that meet specific client needs. Golden West employs culinary professionals, including chefs and master butchers, who utilize modern processing and cooking technologies to prepare their products. Their portfolio includes raw proteins, value-added products, and ready-to-eat meals, reflecting current nutritional trends. The company is committed to sustainability and quality, ensuring that their products are not only delicious but also safe and nutritious. With a strong distribution network, they have established partnerships with over 25,000 retailers, showcasing their relevance in the food processing industry.

14. Blue Diamond Growers

• Website: bluediamond.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sacramento, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: $24.5M, December 2017
• Founded year: 1910
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: blue-diamond-growers

Blue Diamond Growers is an agricultural cooperative based in Sacramento, California, founded in 1910. It specializes in almond production and processing, representing over 3,500 almond growers. The cooperative structure enables effective marketing and distribution of high-quality almond products, including almond milk, roasted almonds, and almond flour. With a workforce of approximately 1,017 employees, the company emphasizes sustainability and quality in its operations. Blue Diamond Growers has established itself as a significant player in the almond industry, shipping products to over 80 countries. Their commitment to innovation is evident through initiatives like the Almond Innovation Center, where they develop new almond-based products. Additionally, they have received funding to support their export promotion initiatives, further solidifying their role in the food processing sector.

15. UPSIDE Foods

• Website: upsidefoods.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, India 3%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), June 2023
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: memphis-meats

UPSIDE Foods, founded in 2015 and based in Berkeley, California, is a private equity-backed food technology company that specializes in the production of cultivated meat products. The company is dedicated to creating sustainable and humane alternatives to traditional meat, offering products such as cultivated chicken and beef meatballs. Their innovative approach involves growing meat directly from animal cells, which eliminates the need to raise and slaughter billions of animals. UPSIDE Foods operates with a commitment to reducing the environmental impact of meat production, making it a relevant player in the food processing industry. The company has received attention for its pioneering efforts, including being the first to receive FDA approval for its cultivated chicken, which underscores its role in advancing food safety and production standards. With a workforce of approximately 233 employees, UPSIDE Foods is actively engaged in developing and scaling its production capabilities to meet growing consumer demand for alternative protein sources.

16. Randall Foods

• Website: randallfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: randall-foods-inc.

Randall Foods, based in Vernon, California, is a meat processing company that has been operational since 1952. Initially starting as a small poultry farm, it has evolved into a significant player in the fresh protein market, processing beef, poultry, and pork. The company prides itself on delivering high-quality products with a strong emphasis on food safety and customer satisfaction. Randall Foods serves grocery retailers and foodservice providers, ensuring a reliable supply of fresh meat products. Their operational efficiency is highlighted by impressive order fill rates and quick delivery times, which are critical in maintaining customer trust. The company has also expanded its product offerings to include value-added items, catering to the evolving needs of the market. With a commitment to innovation and quality, Randall Foods continues to adapt and grow within the competitive food processing industry.

17. Crystal Creamery

• Website: crystalcreamery.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Modesto, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1901
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: crystal-creamery

Crystal Creamery, based in Modesto, California, is a family-owned dairy processor that has been serving the community since 1901. The company specializes in high-quality dairy products, including milk, ice cream, butter, cottage cheese, and sour cream. By sourcing milk from local family-owned farms, Crystal Creamery ensures that its products are fresh and of superior quality. The company caters to both consumers and businesses in California, providing wholesome dairy options that reflect a commitment to community and sustainability. Crystal Creamery also engages in various manufacturing capabilities, including foodservice, retail, bulk products, and private label co-packing, which further solidifies its position in the food processing industry.

18. Lundberg Family Farms

• Website: lundberg.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Richvale, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 5%
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: lundberg-family-farms

Lundberg Family Farms, based in Richvale, California, is a private food manufacturer specializing in organic rice and rice-based products. Established in 1937, the company has built a reputation for quality and sustainability. They offer a wide array of products, including various rice varieties, seasoning mixes, and snacks, primarily targeting health-conscious consumers. Lundberg emphasizes sustainable farming practices, which are evident in their certifications such as USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified. The company also engages in direct-to-consumer sales through their online store, enhancing accessibility to their products. With a workforce of 214 employees, Lundberg Family Farms continues to play a significant role in the organic food sector, focusing on both product quality and environmental stewardship.

19. Pocino Foods Company

• Website: pocinofoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Industry, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1933
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: pocino-foods-company

Pocino Foods Company, based in Industry, California, is a private meat manufacturer that has been operational since 1933. The company specializes in multicultural, ready-to-eat meat products, serving both the food service and retail sectors. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Pocino Foods prides itself on its commitment to quality and innovation. They offer a variety of brands, including Pocino, Hanazen, XAsian Kitchen, Smoke Bar Ranch, and Que Rico, each representing different culinary traditions. Their products range from Italian-style meats to Asian-inspired dishes, reflecting a broad understanding of global cuisines. Pocino Foods emphasizes customer service, working closely with clients to develop tailored solutions that meet specific needs. Their facility holds a modern food safety rating, ensuring that they adhere to high standards in food processing. This dedication to quality and customer collaboration positions Pocino Foods as a notable player in the food processing industry.

20. Miyoko's Creamery

• Website: miyokos.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Petaluma, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series C, $52.0M, August 2021
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: miyoko%27s-kitchen

Miyoko's Creamery, established in 2014 and based in Petaluma, California, specializes in crafting plant-based dairy alternatives. The company produces a variety of products, including vegan butters and cheeses, aimed at consumers who prioritize health and ethical food choices. With a mission to transform the food system, Miyoko's emphasizes sustainability and animal welfare in its operations. The company has received substantial venture capital funding, totaling $52 million in its Series C round in August 2021, which underscores its growth potential and relevance in the food processing industry. Miyoko's Creamery is recognized for its artisan approach, utilizing traditional techniques to create high-quality, flavorful products that resonate with a growing demographic seeking plant-based options.

21. HPP Food Services

• Website: hppfs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: state-fish-co.

HPP Food Services, based in Los Angeles, California, is a private food processing company founded in 2011. The firm specializes in high pressure processing (HPP), a technique that uses cold water and extreme pressure to neutralize harmful pathogens while preserving the nutritional value and taste of food products. HPP Food Services caters primarily to businesses in the food and beverage sector, offering consultation and co-packing services to help clients maintain product quality. Their processing capabilities include a wide range of products such as juices, meats, ready-to-eat meals, and pet food. The company operates two facilities in California and prides itself on its customer service and technical expertise, which are essential for helping clients navigate the complexities of food safety and shelf life extension.

Food Processing Insights: Key Companies in California

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Sun-Maid Growers of California	Kingsburg, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	1912	Private
Golden State Foods	Irvine, California, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1947	Private Equity
Taylor Farms	Salinas, California, United States (USA)	10001+	1995	Private
Amy's Kitchen	Petaluma, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1987	Venture Capital
Memphis Meats	Berkeley, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2015	Private Equity
Donald's Fine Foods	Richmond, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	1993	Family Owned
California Dairies, Inc.	Visalia, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1999	Family Owned
Columbus Craft Meats	Hayward, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1917	Corporate
Farmer John - Clougherty Packing, LLC	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1931	Corporate
Heat and Control Inc.	Hayward, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1950	Corporate
Perfect Day	South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)	11-50	2014	Venture Capital
Pacific Coast Producers	Lodi, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1971	Family Owned
Golden West Food Group	Vernon, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	1970	Private
Blue Diamond Growers	Sacramento, California, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1910	Corporate
UPSIDE Foods	Berkeley, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2015	Private Equity
Randall Foods	Vernon, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1952	Private Equity
Crystal Creamery	Modesto, California, United States (USA)	501-1000	1901	Family Owned
Lundberg Family Farms	Richvale, California, United States (USA)	201-500	1937	Private
Pocino Foods Company	Industry, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1933	Private
Miyoko's Creamery	Petaluma, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2014	Venture Capital
HPP Food Services	Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)	51-200	2011	Private

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