Massachusetts hosts a robust food processing industry, notable for its dynamic mix of manufacturers specializing in everything from plant-based foods to traditional meats. Here, companies prioritize quality, often using local ingredients and advanced techniques to meet growing consumer demands for health-conscious and sustainable options. The industry is adapting to trends such as alternative proteins and organic offerings, reflecting an evolutionary phase that embraces innovation. Local partnerships with farmers and artisan producers enhance the freshness of products, ensuring that Massachusetts remains relevant in national and global markets.

The following list features 21 food processing companies situated primarily in Massachusetts, varying in size from small family-owned operations to larger organizations with hundreds of employees. Established as early as 1909, these companies showcase a mix of specializations, including meat, dairy, plant-based products, and frozen foods. Each has carved a niche, leveraging long-standing traditions alongside modern consumer preferences and sustainability initiatives.

Continue reading to learn more about Massachusetts' top food processing companies.

Top 21 Food Processing Companies in Massachusetts

1. Kettle Cuisine

• Website: kettlecuisine.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Lynn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: August 2018
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: kettle-cuisine

Kettle Cuisine, founded in 1986 and based in Lynn, Massachusetts, is a food manufacturer that specializes in producing frozen and refrigerated food products. Their offerings include a variety of soups, meats, sides, sauces, and broths. The company primarily serves restaurants and foodservice operators, providing high-quality, ready-to-use food solutions that cater to various dietary preferences. Kettle Cuisine operates with a strong emphasis on artisan quality, ensuring that their products are made with care and attention to detail. They have established a reputation for safety in food production, with rigorous quality checks and industry certifications in place. With four state-of-the-art production facilities, Kettle Cuisine is well-equipped to meet the demands of their clients across the United States. Their brands, including Bonewerks and Savory Choice, further enhance their product portfolio, allowing them to offer a wide range of culinary solutions.

2. Kayem Foods, Inc.

• Website: kayemfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chelsea, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, India 13%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1909
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kayem-foods-inc-

Kayem Foods, Inc. is a family-owned meat processing company based in Chelsea, Massachusetts, with a history that dates back to 1909. The company specializes in producing high-quality natural casing franks, sausages, and deli meats, serving both consumers and businesses. Kayem operates two manufacturing facilities in Massachusetts, employing around 600 people and maintaining over 200,000 square feet of production space. The company markets a range of brands, including its flagship Kayem brand, al fresco all natural chicken products, and McKenzie franks. Kayem is recognized as the largest processed meat company in New England, and it has achieved significant certifications for food safety, including an “AA” rating from the Global Food Safety Initiative. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their ISO 9001 certification and ongoing efforts in continuous improvement. Kayem Foods also emphasizes corporate responsibility, focusing on sustainability initiatives and community engagement, which further solidifies its position in the food processing industry.

3. LightLife

• Website: lightlife.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Montague, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $140.0M, February 2017
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lightlife-foods

LightLife Foods Inc., based in Montague, Massachusetts, is a plant-based food manufacturer that has been in operation since 1979. The company specializes in nutritious and flavorful meat alternatives, offering a range of products including tempeh, plant-based hot dogs, deli slices, and other meat substitutes. LightLife aims to cater to health-conscious consumers and those seeking plant-based options, emphasizing energizing food that enhances the dining experience without the heaviness associated with traditional meat. The company has also committed to sustainability, achieving carbon neutrality and ensuring that all its products are non-GMO. With a workforce of around 71 employees, LightLife continues to innovate and expand its product offerings, making it a notable entity in the food processing industry.

4. Costa Fruit & Produce

• Website: freshideas.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: costa-fruit-%26-produce

Costa Fruit & Produce, founded in 1949 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private food distributor that specializes in fresh produce and specialty foods. With a workforce of around 81 employees, the company has established itself as a key player in the food distribution industry, particularly in New England. Costa serves a variety of customers, including restaurants, hotels, colleges, and healthcare facilities, by providing high-quality ingredients and innovative solutions to streamline food preparation. Their processing facility, known as Fresh Ideas, is dedicated to producing fresh cut fruits and vegetables, which helps reduce preparation time for their clients. The company emphasizes local sourcing, maintaining strong relationships with New England farmers and food artisans, which allows them to offer a wide range of locally grown products. Additionally, Costa is committed to food safety, holding SQF certification, which underscores their dedication to maintaining high standards in food quality and safety.

5. Gourmet Specialty Foods

• Website: gourmetspecialtyfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: North Andover, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: gourmet-specialty-foods

Gourmet Specialty Foods is a family-owned meat manufacturer based in North Andover, Massachusetts, established in 2008. The company specializes in high-quality, value-added meat products, offering a variety of specialty meats including skewers, kabobs, and stuffed proteins. Operating from a USDA manufacturing facility, Gourmet Specialty Foods is dedicated to quality and innovation, ensuring that their products meet the needs of both retail and foodservice customers. Their offerings include grass-fed, all-natural, and gluten-free options, appealing to health-conscious consumers. The company prides itself on its commitment to excellence, utilizing fresh, premium ingredients to create ready-to-cook products that are both flavorful and convenient. With a focus on customer satisfaction, Gourmet Specialty Foods has built strong relationships within the food industry, supplying products to well-known organizations and maintaining a reputation for quality and service.

6. Cedar's Foods

• Website: cedarsfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Haverhill, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: cedars-mediterranean-foods

Cedar's Foods, officially known as Cedar's Mediterranean Foods, Inc., is a food manufacturer based in Haverhill, Massachusetts. Founded in 1985, the company has carved out a niche in the Mediterranean food sector, offering a variety of products that include hommus and other prepared foods. Cedar's emphasizes the use of quality ingredients and maintains a clean production process, which resonates with consumers looking for healthy meal options. Their products are available for purchase both online and in retail stores, making them accessible to a wide audience. Cedar's Foods has built a reputation for its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, which has helped them maintain relevance in the competitive food processing industry.

7. Motif FoodWorks

• Website: madewithmotif.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: May 2022
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: motif-foodworks

Motif FoodWorks, founded in 2019 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a food technology company dedicated to revolutionizing the plant-based food sector. The company specializes in developing innovative ingredients and finished products that enhance the taste and texture of plant-based options. Their product offerings include plant-based burgers, chicken cutlets, and cheese alternatives, all designed to meet the needs of foodservice providers and retailers. Motif FoodWorks operates with a strong focus on sustainability, aiming to create food that not only satisfies consumer cravings but also contributes positively to the environment. Recently, they expanded their capabilities by launching bioprocessing services, allowing them to assist other companies in scaling up their plant-based products. This move highlights their commitment to innovation and collaboration within the food industry.

8. DiLuigi Foods

• Website: diluigifoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Danvers, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: diluigi-foods

DiLuigi Foods, based in Danvers, Massachusetts, is a family-owned meat manufacturer that has been serving the food industry since 1950. The company specializes in high-quality meat products, including a variety of sausages and prepared meals. They cater to both retail and foodservice customers, emphasizing innovation and quality to meet the evolving tastes of consumers. DiLuigi Foods is committed to sourcing the finest meats and ensuring exceptional service. Their operations are supported by a team of culinary experts who continuously develop new products and flavors, reflecting current market trends. The company is SQF certified, which underscores their dedication to food safety and quality. With a workforce of around 75 employees, DiLuigi Foods maintains a strong presence in the meat processing sector, focusing on delivering products that not only taste good but also perform well in the marketplace.

9. Mori

• Website: mori.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, Egypt 16%, Brazil 2%
• Latest funding: Series B, $50.0M, March 2022
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cambridgecrops

Mori, formerly known as Cambridge Crops, is a Boston-based food technology company founded in 2016. The company specializes in innovative preservation solutions that extend the shelf life of various food products. Their primary offering, Mori Silk™, is a protective layer made from natural silk protein, designed to slow down the spoiling process of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. This technology not only helps reduce food waste but also improves supply chain efficiency for food producers and retailers. Mori's approach is environmentally conscious, as it minimizes the need for single-use plastics, waxes, and chemicals typically used in food preservation. The company has received significant funding, with a Series B round totaling $50 million in March 2022, indicating strong investor confidence in their technology and its potential impact on the food industry.

10. Reiser

• Website: reiser.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Canton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%, Canada 8%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: reiser

Reiser, established in 1945 and based in Canton, Massachusetts, specializes in food processing and packaging equipment. With a workforce of approximately 460 employees, the company serves a wide array of food sectors, including meat, poultry, seafood, bakery, and dairy. Reiser is dedicated to providing innovative solutions that enhance production efficiency and product quality for food manufacturers. Their extensive experience spans over 60 years, during which they have developed practical equipment and support services tailored to meet the specific needs of their clients. Reiser's offerings also extend to alternative proteins and pet food, reflecting their ability to adapt to changing consumer demands. Their commitment to customer success is evident in their problem-solving approach and the expertise of their engineering and application teams.

11. RainSweet, Inc.

• Website: rainsweet.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Salem, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1982
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: rainsweet-inc-

RainSweet, Inc., based in Salem, Massachusetts, is a family-owned fruit processing company that has been operational since 1982. The company specializes in frozen fruit products, offering a variety of items such as individually quick frozen (IQF) fruits and smoothies. RainSweet emphasizes quality and sustainability, forming partnerships with local farmers to ensure the best possible products. Their offerings cater to both food service providers and retailers, showcasing their adaptability in meeting market demands. With a workforce of approximately 59 employees, RainSweet maintains a strong presence in the frozen fruit sector, focusing on delivering high-quality, minimally processed fruit products. Their commitment to food safety and quality is evident in their operational practices, which prioritize the health and satisfaction of their customers.

12. Dairy Partners Ltd

• Website: dairypartners.co.uk
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Gloucester, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 92%, Brazil 8%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: dairy-partners

Dairy Partners Ltd, established in 2007, is a family-owned cheese manufacturer based in Gloucester, Massachusetts, USA. The company specializes in a wide range of dairy products, with a particular focus on mozzarella and pizza cheese. They cater to food service providers and food manufacturers, ensuring that their products meet the specific needs of their customers. With a workforce of approximately 79 employees, Dairy Partners has built a reputation for high-quality cheese products. The company emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing, maintaining strong partnerships with over 150 local farmers to ensure that their milk supply is fresh and environmentally responsible. Their production facilities in Stonehouse, Gloucestershire, and Newcastle Emlyn, Wales, are equipped with advanced technology, allowing them to produce various cheese formats, including grated, shredded, and block cheese. Dairy Partners is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and has implemented several initiatives to achieve net-zero manufacturing. They are also accredited by the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and Red Tractor, which underscores their commitment to food safety and quality standards.

13. Plant&Bean

• Website: plantandbean.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2023
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: plant-and-bean

Plant&Bean is a Boston-based food manufacturer founded in 2020, specializing in plant-based products. The company aims to improve health and sustainability through its innovative range of plant-based meats and ingredients. Their offerings cater to both businesses in the food industry and consumers looking for healthier dietary choices. With a focus on transparency, culinary excellence, and technological innovation, Plant&Bean is committed to creating delicious and nutritious products. They operate a manufacturing facility in the UK with plans for expansion into North America and other regions, indicating a strategic approach to scaling their operations. Their Seed2Fork approach emphasizes cost-effective research and development, optimized manufacturing processes, and collaboration with purpose-driven brands, positioning them as a relevant player in the food processing sector.

14. Old Neighborhood Foods

• Website: oldneighborhoodfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Lynn, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1914
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: old-neighborhood-foods

Old Neighborhood Foods, based in Lynn, Massachusetts, is a family-owned meat manufacturer that has been operational since 1914. The company specializes in producing high-quality meat products, including marinated meats, sausages, hot dogs, and deli items. With a workforce of approximately 43 employees, Old Neighborhood Foods emphasizes quality and community engagement. They cater to both consumers and businesses in the food service sector, providing flavorful and convenient meal solutions. The company prides itself on sourcing superior ingredients and maintaining rigorous quality control standards. Their commitment to innovation is evident in their adaptation to changing consumer preferences, such as the introduction of low-fat and low-sodium options through their Thin 'n Trim brand. Additionally, Old Neighborhood Foods actively participates in community initiatives, supporting local organizations and events, which further solidifies their reputation as a responsible and engaged business in the food processing industry.

15. Decas Cranberry Products Inc.

• Website: decascranberry.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Carver, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: March 2021
• Founded year: 1930
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: decas-cranberry-products-inc.

Decas Cranberry Products Inc. is a food manufacturer based in Carver, Massachusetts, specializing in cranberry products. Founded in 1930, the company has built a reputation for quality and innovation in the food processing industry. They offer a wide range of products, including sweetened and organic dried cranberries, juices, and snacks. Their clientele includes food service providers and retailers who prioritize high-quality ingredients to enhance their offerings. Decas emphasizes sustainable practices and maintains strong relationships with independent cranberry growers, ensuring a consistent supply of premium cranberries. The company is dedicated to meeting market trends and consumer demands, which is evident in their product development efforts. They also focus on health benefits associated with cranberries, further solidifying their position in the food processing sector.

16. Cambridge Crops, Inc.

• Website: cambridgecrops.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Somerville, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cambridgecrops

Cambridge Crops, Inc., now known as Mori, is a food technology firm based in Somerville, Massachusetts. Founded in 2016, the company specializes in sustainable food preservation solutions. Their flagship product, Mori Silk™, is a natural protective layer that significantly extends the shelf life of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. By utilizing silk protein, Mori's technology slows down spoilage mechanisms such as dehydration, oxidation, and microbial growth. This innovative approach not only helps food producers and retailers reduce waste but also minimizes the need for traditional preservatives and plastic packaging. Mori's commitment to sustainability and efficiency positions it as a relevant player in the food processing industry, addressing critical challenges faced by food producers and consumers alike.

17. Taza Chocolate

• Website: tazachocolate.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Somerville, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 86%, Morocco 14%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: taza-chocolate

Taza Chocolate, founded in 2007 and based in Somerville, Massachusetts, is a chocolate manufacturer known for its stone ground chocolate products. The company offers a variety of chocolate bars, discs, and snacks, all crafted from organic and ethically sourced cacao. Taza is recognized for its innovative Direct Trade model, which establishes direct relationships with cacao farmers, ensuring they receive fair compensation above the Fair Trade price. This commitment to ethical sourcing not only supports the farmers but also resonates with consumers who prioritize sustainability. Taza operates a factory store in Somerville, where they provide tours to educate visitors about their chocolate-making process, further enhancing their community engagement. With a workforce of around 56 employees, Taza Chocolate continues to carve out a niche in the chocolate industry, focusing on quality and ethical practices.

18. PGI Foods

• Website: pgifoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lowell, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: plenus-group-inc.

PGI Foods, also known as Plenus Group, Inc., is a food manufacturer based in Lowell, Massachusetts, specializing in premium soups, sauces, and gourmet frozen food items. Established in 2002, the company has built a reputation for quality culinary products, serving a wide range of clients including restaurants, retailers, and institutions throughout the United States. PGI operates a USDA/FDA inspected facility that emphasizes food safety and quality control, ensuring that their products meet high standards. The company is known for its commitment to small-batch cooking, using fresh and high-quality ingredients. PGI Foods also owns several brands, including Boston Chowda, East Coast Gourmet, and Herban Fresh, which cater to various culinary preferences. Their involvement in the industry is marked by participation in trade shows and recognition through multiple awards, showcasing their impact and relevance in the food processing sector.

19. One Mighty Mill

• Website: onemightymill.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: one-mighty-mill

One Mighty Mill, founded in 2018 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a private bakery and food manufacturer that specializes in stone-milled products. The company offers a variety of baked goods, including bagels and bread, as well as flours and mixes. One Mighty Mill is dedicated to providing nutritious alternatives to industrially processed foods, appealing to health-conscious consumers who prioritize flavor and quality. Their stone-milling process retains the full nutrition and flavor of whole grains, setting them apart in a market dominated by highly processed options. The company operates its own mills and a test bakery, allowing for innovation and experimentation in their product offerings. With a small team of 11-50 employees, One Mighty Mill is actively contributing to the food processing industry by promoting healthier food systems and sustainable practices.

20. T.F. Kinnealey & Co., Inc.

• Website: kinnealey.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Brockton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2016
• Founded year: 1939
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: t.f.-kinnealey-%26-co.-inc.

T.F. Kinnealey & Co., Inc. is a well-established meat processing and distribution company based in Brockton, Massachusetts. Founded in 1939, the company has built a reputation for providing high-quality meats to a variety of food service operators across New England. Their clientele includes restaurants, hotels, country clubs, and healthcare facilities, showcasing their ability to cater to different sectors within the food industry. Kinnealey specializes in custom cutting and in-house aging of meats, ensuring that each product meets rigorous quality standards. With over 85 years of experience, they have adapted to the evolving needs of their customers while maintaining a commitment to quality, consistency, and value. The company operates as a multi-million dollar enterprise, utilizing modern technology and sustainable practices to enhance their offerings and support their clients' success.

21. Adams Farm Slaughterhouse Meatretail

• Website: adamsfarm.biz
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Athol, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $150,000, February 2023
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: adams-farm-slaughterhouse-meatretail

Adams Farm Slaughterhouse, LLC, located in Athol, Massachusetts, is a family-owned meat processing and retail establishment that has been serving the community since 1946. The company offers a variety of fresh, locally raised meat products, including beef, pork, and chicken, alongside deli items and local products. They cater to both consumers and businesses, providing custom processing services tailored to individual needs. The facility is USDA inspected and Halal certified, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Adams Farm emphasizes quality and local sourcing, which resonates with a growing consumer preference for sustainable and ethically produced food. Recently, the company secured $150,000 in funding, indicating ongoing investment in their operations and potential for growth. Their retail store features a range of meat products and local goods, reinforcing their commitment to supporting local agriculture and providing high-quality products to their customers.

Food Processing Insights: Key Companies in Massachusetts

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