North Carolina's food processing companies represent a vital segment of the state's economy, focusing on transforming raw agricultural products into consumables. This sector includes poultry, meat, and vegetable processing, along with innovative companies exploring plant-based alternatives and sustainable practices. As consumers demand healthier options and convenience, firms are adapting by investing in technology and sustainability efforts. The trend of using locally sourced ingredients and waste reduction is strong, paving the way for growth in organic and alternative food markets. With a rich agricultural base, North Carolina is poised for continued expansion in the food processing sphere.

This list outlines top food processing companies based in North Carolina, ranging from small operations to those employing thousands. Companies here vary in age, with founding years spanning from 1941 to 2015. Key players include Case Farms in Troutman, known for poultry products, and Snyder's-Lance in Charlotte, famous for snacks. The companies represent various sectors within food processing, illustrating the state's robust supply of agricultural goods turned into valued consumer products.

Read on to discover the top food processing companies in North Carolina.

Top 21 Food Processing Companies in North Carolina

1. Case Farms, Inc.

• Website: casefarms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Troutman, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $500,000, October 2024
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: case-farms-inc.

Case Farms, Inc. is a privately owned poultry processing company based in Troutman, North Carolina. Founded in 1986, the company has established itself as a key player in the poultry industry, specializing in the production and processing of high-quality poultry products. With facilities located in North Carolina and Ohio, Case Farms serves a variety of clients in the food service and retail sectors. The company emphasizes efficient production and logistics, ensuring that their products meet the demands of their customers. Case Farms is committed to maintaining a safe workplace and fostering a culture of respect and opportunity for its employees. In October 2024, the company received a grant of $500,000, indicating ongoing investment in its operations and future growth. This funding supports their mission to deliver quality poultry products while enhancing their operational capabilities.

2. Snyder's-Lance, Inc.

• Website: snyderslance.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $6.1B, December 2017
• Founded year: 1913
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: snyder%27s-lance-inc-

Snyder's-Lance, Inc., based in Charlotte, North Carolina, is a prominent food manufacturer specializing in snacks. Founded in 1913, the company has built a reputation for producing a wide range of snack products that cater to consumers seeking convenience and flavor. As part of the Campbell Soup Company, Snyder's-Lance benefits from a robust infrastructure and a commitment to quality. The company focuses on creating snacks that not only satisfy cravings but also meet the growing demand for nutritious options. With a workforce of over 1,900 employees, Snyder's-Lance plays a vital role in the food processing industry, contributing to the broader market with its innovative products and community engagement initiatives.

3. SinnovaTek | SinnoVita | FirstWave

• Website: sinnovatek.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, $5.0M, July 2021
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: sinnovatek-inc.

SinnovaTek | SinnoVita | FirstWave, founded in 2015 and based in Raleigh, North Carolina, is a food processing company that specializes in advanced thermal processing and research and development services. With a team of experienced food scientists and engineers, the company offers a range of solutions including product development, ingredient technology, and co-manufacturing. Their focus is primarily on fruit and vegetable-based products, where they excel in taking concepts from ideation to commercialization. SinnovaTek has received $5 million in seed funding as of July 2021, which supports their innovative approaches to food processing. The company is committed to improving food safety and quality while promoting sustainability through practices like upcycling food waste. Their Vitero ingredient technology exemplifies their scientific approach to enhancing food products, making them a notable entity in the food processing industry.

4. Butterball, LLC

• Website: butterball.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Garner, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: December 2010
• Founded year: 1954
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: butterball-llc

Butterball, LLC, based in Garner, North Carolina, is a prominent food manufacturer specializing in turkey and poultry products. Established in 1954, the company has grown to employ between 5,001 and 10,000 individuals, primarily in the United States. Butterball offers a wide range of products, including whole turkeys, deli meats, turkey burgers, and various cuts of turkey. The company caters to consumers looking for nutritious meal options, emphasizing quality and convenience in meal preparation. Butterball is also known for its Turkey Talk-Line, a unique service that provides cooking advice and support to customers during the holiday season. Their commitment to animal care and well-being is evident in their practices, which aim to ensure the highest standards in poultry farming. Butterball's products are widely available in major retailers across the country, making them a staple in many households.

5. Mays Meats Inc

• Website: maysmeats.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Taylorsville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mays-meats-inc

Mays Meats Inc, based in Taylorsville, North Carolina, is a meat processing and distribution company that has been operational since 1976. The company specializes in providing a variety of fresh and frozen meats, grocery products, and wholesale food services to restaurants, grocery stores, and consumers. Mays Meats operates a retail store and offers custom meat processing services, ensuring that all products meet USDA standards. With a workforce of approximately 70 employees, the company has expanded its operations to include a fleet of 16 refrigerated delivery trucks, servicing a delivery area within a 150-mile radius of Taylorsville. Mays Meats has also adapted to market demands by incorporating ethnic food products into their offerings, catering to a growing demographic in the region. Their commitment to quality and service has allowed them to compete effectively against larger regional distributors, making them a notable entity in the food processing industry.

6. House of Raeford Farms

• Website: houseofraeford.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Rose Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1955
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: house-of-raeford

House of Raeford Farms, based in Rose Hill, North Carolina, is a family-owned poultry producer that has been in operation since 1955. The company specializes in fresh and further processed chicken products, serving a wide range of customers including retailers and food service providers. House of Raeford Farms controls every step of the production process, from hatcheries to processing plants, ensuring high-quality and safe poultry offerings. They have a strong commitment to food safety, animal welfare, and environmental stewardship, which is reflected in their operational practices. The company also engages in community involvement initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to being a responsible corporate citizen. With a workforce of over 1,475 employees, House of Raeford Farms continues to innovate and expand its product offerings, catering to the evolving needs of consumers and the food industry.

7. Yamco

• Website: yamco.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Snow Hill, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: yamco-llc

Yamco, founded in 2004 and based in Snow Hill, North Carolina, is a private food processing company that specializes in the production of high-quality vegetable and fruit purees. The company serves food service providers and manufacturers, offering purees that maintain excellent flavor and nutritional value, produced without any additives or preservatives. Yamco operates a modern facility that employs patented microwave technology to ensure superior product quality. As a grower-owned business, they emphasize efficient traceability to the growers and their fields, which supports their commitment to sustainability. The company is dedicated to utilizing 100% of their crops, creating a zero-waste environment, and supporting their local community through innovation and professional growth for employees. Their product range includes purees made from sweet potatoes, carrots, cauliflower, butternut squash, pumpkin, and beets, catering to various applications in the food industry.

8. Aeroglide Corporation

• Website: aeroglide.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Cary, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1940
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: aeroglide-corporation

Aeroglide Corporation, based in Cary, North Carolina, has been a significant player in the food processing equipment sector since its founding in 1940. The company specializes in designing and manufacturing advanced drying and cooling systems tailored for food production. Their equipment is utilized in various applications, including the processing of fruits, vegetables, and other food products, ensuring optimal quality and efficiency. Aeroglide's commitment to innovation and quality has made them a trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their food processing capabilities. As a family-owned business, they maintain a focus on customer service and tailored solutions, which has helped them build lasting relationships in the industry.

9. Cardinal Foods, LLC

• Website: cardinalfoodsllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Burgaw, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Algeria 8%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: cardinal-foods-llc

Cardinal Foods, LLC, based in Burgaw, North Carolina, is a private food processing company that was founded in 2017. The company specializes in the production of frozen fruits and vegetables, offering products such as individual quick freeze (IQF) items and frozen purees. Cardinal Foods emphasizes sourcing ingredients locally, primarily within a 100-mile radius of their processing facility, which not only supports local agriculture but also enhances the freshness and quality of their products. They provide additional services including logistics and cold storage, which help reduce waste and improve product availability for manufacturers in the food industry. The company is committed to food safety and adheres to various certifications, including SQF Level 2, Kosher, and USDA regulations. With a small but dedicated team, Cardinal Foods aims to innovate and meet the evolving needs of their customers in the food processing market.

10. 3 Fish, Inc.

• Website: 3fish.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gastonia, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: 3fish-inc-

3 Fish, Inc., based in Gastonia, North Carolina, is a private food manufacturing company founded in 1996. The company specializes in seafood and convenience food products, aiming to create innovative and flavorful meal solutions for retailers and food service providers. Their product lineup includes seafood cakes, chicken croquettes, and empanadas, designed to meet the demands of modern consumers who seek quality and convenience in their meals. 3 Fish prides itself on crafting products in small batches, allowing for flexibility in flavor profiles and innovation. The company emphasizes strong partnerships with clients, focusing on supply chain integrity and quality ingredient sourcing. They hold several certifications, including SQF Level 2 and USDA FSIS inspection, which reflect their commitment to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality. With a dedicated team and a focus on customer service, 3 Fish, Inc. continues to evolve to meet the needs of the market.

11. Atlantic Natural Foods

• Website: atlanticnaturalfoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Nashville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2021
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: atlantic-natural-foods-llc

Atlantic Natural Foods, founded in 2008 and based in Nashville, North Carolina, is a plant-based food manufacturer dedicated to producing sustainable and nutritious alternatives to meat and seafood. The company operates several brands, including Loma Linda, TUNO, and CHIK’N, which are designed to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers and food service professionals. Atlantic Natural Foods emphasizes affordability and accessibility, ensuring that plant-based options are available to a wide audience. Their products are made from ethically sourced ingredients and are produced in FDA-approved facilities, maintaining high standards of food safety and quality. The company has a rich history, tracing its roots back to 1890 with the founding of Loma Linda by Dr. J.H. Kellogg, and continues to champion a plant-based lifestyle. They are also a member of the Plant Based Foods Association, reflecting their commitment to the industry and its growth.

12. Freirich Foods, Inc.

• Website: freirich.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Salisbury, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: freirich-foods-inc-

Freirich Foods, Inc., based in Salisbury, North Carolina, is a private meat processing company founded in 1999. The company specializes in producing a variety of high-quality meat products, including smoked meats, corned beef, and delicatessen items. Freirich serves a range of clients, from supermarkets to delicatessens, as well as individual consumers seeking flavorful and safe meat options. With a strong emphasis on food safety and quality assurance, Freirich has built a reputation as a trusted name in the meat industry. Their commitment to safety is evident in their rigorous training programs for employees and their adherence to strict food safety standards. The company has been operating under a USDA-approved HACCP plan since its inception, ensuring that potential food safety hazards are identified and mitigated. Freirich also emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like solar energy and recycling, showcasing their dedication to responsible practices in food processing.

13. Carolina Packers Inc

• Website: carolinapackers.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Smithfield, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1941
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: carolina-packers-inc

Carolina Packers Inc, based in Smithfield, North Carolina, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been crafting quality meat products since its founding in 1941. The company is particularly renowned for its Bright Leaf Hot Dogs, which have become a staple in Southern cuisine. Carolina Packers serves a dual market, providing products directly to consumers through online orders and local grocery stores, as well as supplying restaurants and grills. Their product line includes not only hot dogs but also sausages, bacon, and BBQ, showcasing their commitment to traditional Southern flavors. The company emphasizes quality and freshness, sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible. With a workforce of around 22 employees, Carolina Packers maintains a strong community presence and continues to thrive in the competitive food processing sector.

14. Nash Produce, LLC

• Website: nashproduce.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Nashville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1977
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nash-produce-llc

Nash Produce, LLC, founded in 1977 and based in Nashville, North Carolina, is a private company that specializes in the cultivation and processing of sweet potatoes and cucumbers. With a workforce of approximately 27 employees, the company operates a significant processing facility that is among the largest for sweet potatoes and cucumbers in the United States. Nash Produce serves a variety of clients, including retailers, foodservice providers, and processors, ensuring high-quality fresh produce is available year-round. The company prides itself on its strong relationships with grower-owners, who cultivate over 10,000 acres of sweet potatoes in the fertile soils of eastern North Carolina. Their operations include advanced processing techniques and a logistics department that enhances their distribution capabilities. Nash Produce also emphasizes food safety and sustainability practices, reflecting their commitment to quality and community engagement.

15. Origin Food Group, LLC

• Website: originfoodgroup.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Statesville, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: origin-food-group-llc

Origin Food Group, LLC, based in Statesville, North Carolina, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been active since 2009. The company specializes in functional foods and dairy products, producing a range of items including drinkable yogurts and ice cream mixes. Origin Food Group emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, such as HOWARU® probiotics and antioxidant-rich superfruits, to create products that cater to health-conscious consumers. With nearly four decades of experience in the functional food sector, the company has a strong foundation in innovation, having introduced several health-focused products in South America before expanding to North America. Their operations in the U.S. are characterized by a commitment to local sourcing, partnering with local dairy farmers to ensure quality and support the local economy. The company also offers contract packing and private label services, showcasing their flexibility and capability to meet various customer needs in the food processing industry.

16. ANCO Equipment & Services, LLC

• Website: ancoeas.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: High Point, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1902
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: anco-rendering-equipment-llc

ANCO Equipment & Services, LLC, founded in 1902 and based in High Point, North Carolina, is a manufacturer and service provider dedicated to the rendering and food processing industries. The company specializes in custom equipment solutions, offering a range of products that include raw material handling systems, cookers, dryers, hydrolyzers, and automation controls. ANCO serves various sectors, notably meat and pet food processing, ensuring that their equipment meets the specific needs of their clients. They also provide engineering services and maintenance support, which are crucial for maintaining optimal operational efficiency. With a workforce of 20 employees, ANCO is a private entity that has maintained its relevance in the industry for over a century, adapting to the evolving needs of food processing.

17. Farm Fresh Produce Inc.

• Website: farmfreshproduce.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Faison, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 84%, Netherlands 16%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: farm-fresh-produce-inc-

Farm Fresh Produce Inc., founded in 2010 and based in Faison, North Carolina, is a family-owned company that specializes in the distribution of fresh fruits and vegetables. The company has carved out a niche in the market by focusing on sweet potatoes and peppers, serving businesses in the food retail and service sectors. With a dedicated distribution center and a farm operation, Farm Fresh ensures a steady supply of high-quality produce. They are committed to sustainability, employing practices such as natural pest control and water conservation. Their operations are designed to optimize the carbon footprint, and they adhere to GLOBALG.A.P. standards, which reflect best practices in the produce industry. The company also offers customized packaging solutions, allowing clients to showcase their brands effectively. With a team that combines farming expertise with global distribution knowledge, Farm Fresh is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

18. Prestage Farms

• Website: prestagefarms.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Clinton, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $25.0M, February 2023
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: prestage-farms

Prestage Farms, founded in 1983 and based in Clinton, North Carolina, is a family-owned company focused on the production of turkey and pork. The company prides itself on high standards of animal care and sustainable practices, ensuring that their products are nutritious and responsibly produced. Prestage Farms operates a vertically integrated production process, managing everything from feed manufacturing to food safety. They also engage in grain purchasing to support local farmers and have established renewable energy initiatives, such as their AgEnergy facility, which converts turkey litter into electricity. This commitment to quality and sustainability positions Prestage Farms as a significant contributor to the food processing industry. In February 2023, the company received a grant of approximately $24.9 million, reflecting its active role in the market and its potential for future growth.

19. Goodnight Brothers

• Website: goodnightbrothers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boone, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1948
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: goodnight-brothers

Goodnight Brothers, based in Boone, North Carolina, is a private meat processing company that has been specializing in the art of dry curing hams since its founding in 1948. The company emphasizes quality and traditional curing methods, offering a range of artisan meat products that reflect the culinary heritage of the Appalachian region. Goodnight Brothers serves both the food service and retail sectors, as well as individual consumers, providing products such as country hams, bacon, and pork skins. Their online shop allows customers to purchase these items directly, showcasing their commitment to accessibility and customer service. The company has maintained a focus on quality and detail, blending time-honored techniques with modern advancements in food processing. With a small team of around 31 employees, Goodnight Brothers continues to operate as a family-run business, preserving the traditions of their forefathers while adapting to contemporary market demands.

20. LC America, Inc.

• Website: lcamerica.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Colfax, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: lcamericainc

LC America, Inc. is a family-owned manufacturer based in Colfax, North Carolina, established in 2011. As a subsidiary of the Italian company Le Caselle, which has been recognized in the snack pellet market since 1991, LC America focuses on producing snack pellets made from potatoes, legumes, cereals, and vegetables. Their products serve as semi-finished goods for snack food producers, who then process and market these items under their own brands. The company operates with a strong emphasis on quality, utilizing advanced technology and a rigorous quality control system to ensure that their products meet high standards. LC America has expanded its production capacity since its inception, reflecting its commitment to meeting the increasing demand in the North American snack food market. Their innovative approach and dedication to customer satisfaction make them a notable player in the food processing industry.

21. EnviroFlight

• Website: enviroflight.net
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Apex, North Carolina, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: February 2016
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: enviroflight

EnviroFlight, based in Apex, North Carolina, specializes in the production of insect protein and other sustainable ingredients. Founded in 2009, the company focuses on utilizing organic waste to cultivate black soldier fly larvae, which are then processed into high-quality protein for animal feed and potential human food applications. This innovative approach not only addresses the growing demand for protein but also promotes sustainability by reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of food production. EnviroFlight operates within the broader framework of Darling Ingredients, which emphasizes circularity and resource efficiency in the food industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since its inception.

Food Processing Insights: Key Companies in North Carolina

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