The meat processing industry in California plays a crucial role in supplying high-quality protein products. Companies within this sector range from family-owned businesses to large corporations, each offering a variety of meats such as beef, pork, and poultry. Focused on food safety and sustainability, many manufacturers are emphasizing humane handling practices and local sourcing. Innovations in this field, such as online shopping and regenerative agriculture, reflect the changing preferences of consumers who increasingly demand transparency around their food choices. As trends shift toward healthier options and ethical sourcing, the industry is evolving to meet these new expectations.

This list features 22 meat processing companies based in California, showcasing a wide range of sizes from small family firms to corporate giants. Founded as early as the 1930s, these companies specialize in products like beef, pork, deli meats, and sausages. With headquarters scattered across cities such as Richmond, Los Angeles, and Selma, each company brings unique strengths, supported by strong commitments to quality and sustainability. From small operations to major suppliers, the versatility reflects a reactive approach to consumer demands that prioritizes safety, quality, and community orientation.

Read on to discover insights about the top meat processing companies in California.

Top 22 Meat Processing Companies Companies in California

1. 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. They serve a broad customer base, including retail grocery stores and food service providers, both locally and internationally. The company operates multiple facilities across Western Canada, ensuring adherence to rigorous food safety and quality standards. Donald's Fine Foods has built a reputation for its commitment to customer service, integrity, and quality, with a workforce of over 1,100 dedicated employees. Their brands, such as PrimRose Farms and Savoury Choice, are recognized for their quality and are distributed in over 25 countries. The company emphasizes sustainability and corporate responsibility, actively engaging in community support and environmental stewardship.

2. 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 meat processing company based in Los Angeles, California, with a history dating back to 1931. The company is known for its production of 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 also promotes local sourcing, which resonates with a growing consumer preference for fresh and regionally produced foods. Farmer John actively engages with its community through initiatives like the California Commitment Tour, which aims to strengthen family ties and nourish local communities. The company is part of Smithfield Foods, which adds to its operational capabilities and market reach. In 2016, Farmer John secured a significant funding amount of $145 million, indicating investor confidence in its business model and growth potential.

3. Harris Ranch Beef Company

• Website: harrisranchbeef.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Selma, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2019
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: harrisranchbeefcompany

Harris Ranch Beef Company, based in Selma, California, is a prominent beef producer known for its high-quality beef products tailored for both consumers and foodservice operators. Established in 1937, the company has built a reputation for excellence, particularly in the West Coast market. They prioritize animal welfare and food safety, ensuring that their beef is not only flavorful but also responsibly sourced. Harris Ranch offers a variety of beef programs, including retail and foodservice options, and has expanded its reach through an online shopping platform for direct consumer sales. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their rigorous quality control measures and partnerships with progressive cattle ranchers. The company is recognized for its innovative approach, having pioneered a unique branded beef program in 1982, which has contributed to its status as a trusted name in the industry.

4. 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 meat processing industry, based in Hayward, California. The company specializes in crafting premium deli and cured meats, including a variety of salami, deli meats, and charcuterie products. Columbus emphasizes the use of high-quality ingredients, such as whole cuts of pork and beef, and adheres to traditional recipes that have been refined over the years. Their product line caters to both consumers and businesses, showcasing a commitment to quality and flavor. Columbus Craft Meats has also received significant funding, amounting to $850 million, which underscores its growth potential and relevance in the market.

5. Daniels Western Meat Packers

• Website: danielsmeat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pico Rivera, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1953
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: daniels-western-meat-packers

Daniels Western Meat Packers, based in Pico Rivera, California, has been a family-owned meat processing and distribution company since its inception in 1953. The company specializes in a wide array of meat products, including beef, poultry, lamb, pork, seafood, and wild game. They primarily serve customers in the hospitality and food service industries, such as restaurants, hotels, and catering companies. Daniels Western Meat Packers prides itself on maintaining high standards of quality and safety, operating a USDA-inspected facility that adheres to Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) protocols. Their experienced butchers are trained in food safety and quality control, ensuring that products are pathogen-free and meet customer specifications. The company has a rich history, with its legacy continuing through multiple generations of the founding family, which adds a personal touch to their business operations.

6. Yosemite Foods Inc.

• Website: yosemitefoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Stockton, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: yosemite-foods-inc

Yosemite Foods Inc. is a family-owned meat processing and distribution company based in Stockton, California. Founded in 2018, the company has its roots in a small meat counter that has evolved into a state-of-the-art USDA inspected facility. With a focus on high-quality pork, beef, poultry, and assorted meat products, Yosemite Foods serves both wholesale buyers and retail consumers. The company has carved out a niche in specialty markets, particularly catering to Hispanic and Asian communities. Their operations are marked by a strong emphasis on quality, safety, and humane handling practices. Yosemite Foods also integrates energy-efficient technologies in its processing, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. The company prides itself on delivering fresh products, often within 24 hours of processing, which is a significant advantage in the meat industry.

7. 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 in operation since 1952. Initially starting as a small poultry farm, the company has evolved into a significant player in the meat processing industry, offering a variety of fresh protein products, including beef, poultry, and pork. Randall Foods prides itself on its commitment to quality, speed, and safety, ensuring that their products meet high standards for their customers. They serve grocery retailers and foodservice providers across several states, including California, Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas, with plans for further expansion. The company emphasizes innovative solutions and customization in their offerings, which allows them to cater to the specific needs of their clients. Their recent acquisition of WilMar Meat Co. enhances their processing capabilities, particularly in ground beef solutions, showcasing their growth strategy and commitment to meeting market demands.

8. Certified Meat Products

• Website: certifiedmeatproducts.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Fresno, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: certified-meat-products

Certified Meat Products is a family-owned meat processor located in Fresno, California, established in 2005. The company specializes in a wide array of meat products, including beef, pork, lamb, and poultry. With over 60 years of combined experience in the meat industry, they pride themselves on delivering high-quality, processed meat products. Their operations are USDA inspected, ensuring compliance with industry standards. Certified Meat Products serves a variety of clients, from local businesses to national retail stores and multinational food companies. They emphasize innovation in their processing techniques and maintain a strong focus on quality, which has allowed them to build lasting relationships with their customers. The company is dedicated to sustainability and responsible sourcing, ensuring that their products meet the needs of modern consumers. They also offer custom processing and private label services, showcasing their flexibility in meeting client demands.

9. Square-H Brands, Inc.

• Website: squarehbrands.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: square-h-brands-inc.

Square-H Brands, Inc., based in Los Angeles, California, is a family-owned meat processing company founded in 1997. The company is dedicated to producing and distributing high-quality meat products, primarily under its well-known brands, Hoffy and Bill Bailey’s. With a history that spans over 75 years, these brands have become synonymous with quality and flavor in Southern California households. Square-H Brands serves both consumers and food service businesses, offering a variety of products that cater to everyday meals and special occasions. Their commitment to freshness, taste, and value is evident in their extensive product range, which includes hot dogs, bacon, sausages, and marinated meats. The company prides itself on maintaining high safety standards and innovative practices to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

10. American Custom Meats, LLC

• Website: acmeats.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Tracy, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: american-custom-meats-llc

American Custom Meats, LLC, based in Tracy, California, is a family-owned meat processing company that specializes in high-quality beef, pork, and poultry products. Established in 2011 by industry veterans, the company aims to control its protein supply chain to meet the stringent quality specifications of its customers. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, ACM operates a state-of-the-art facility that prioritizes food safety and product customization. They serve a variety of clients, including military, retail, foodservice, and schools, ensuring that their products adhere to strict safety and quality standards. The company is USDA inspected and consistently achieves high ratings in BRC audits, reflecting their commitment to maintaining high operational standards. Their innovative approach includes collaborative product development and a focus on sustainability, which further enhances their position in the meat processing industry.

11. Newport Meat Company

• Website: newportmeat.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 1999
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: newport-meat-company

Newport Meat Company, based in Irvine, California, is a meat processing and distribution firm that specializes in high-quality meat products. Established in 1975, the company has built a reputation for excellence in providing beef, veal, pork, lamb, and poultry to the food service industry. Newport Meat Company prides itself on its commitment to quality, sourcing from trusted suppliers and ensuring that their products meet high standards of taste and appearance. The company operates a modern processing facility equipped with advanced technologies for efficient production and safety. Newport Meat Company is dedicated to customer service, working closely with clients to meet their specific needs. They have also achieved Safe Quality Food Level 3 certification, demonstrating their commitment to food safety and quality management. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, Newport Meat Company continues to be a significant player in the meat processing sector.

12. Crown Meat & Provisions Inc.

• Website: crownmeat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Palm Springs, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: crown-meat-%26-provisions-inc-

Crown Meat & Provisions Inc., based in Palm Springs, California, has been a significant player in the meat supply industry since its founding in 1992. The company specializes in wholesale distribution, offering a wide range of meat products, including beef, pork, poultry, and seafood. They cater primarily to restaurants, caterers, and event venues across Southern California, ensuring that their clients receive high-quality meats with dependable delivery services. Crown Meat operates from a USDA-inspected facility, emphasizing food safety and quality control. Their involvement in the industry extends beyond mere distribution; they also provide meat cutting services and offer organic and free-range options. The company has built a reputation for exceptional customer service and has been actively engaged in community events, showcasing their commitment to both quality and local engagement.

13. Owb Packers LLC

• Website: owbpackers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Brawley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: owb-packers-llc

Owb Packers LLC, based in Brawley, California, is a beef processing company that specializes in humane cattle processing and the production of high-quality beef. Founded in 2016, the company operates a modern facility that was built with a focus on animal welfare and innovative processing techniques. The plant, which spans 337,000 square feet, was the first of its kind constructed in the U.S. in two decades and is equipped to handle various beef certifications, including Organic, Halal, Angus, Holstein, and Wagyu. OWB Packers employs a unique toll-processing model, allowing them to cater to ranchers and businesses of all sizes, from small operations to larger enterprises. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their advanced processing capabilities, including USDA camera grading technology and specialized fabrication options. The company also collaborates with One World Beef for marketing and export, enhancing their reach in both domestic and international markets.

14. True Story Foods

• Website: truestoryfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Fairfield, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: true-story-foods

True Story Foods, founded in 2010 and based in Fairfield, California, is a family-owned company dedicated to producing organic and natural meat products. They specialize in deli meats, sausages, and hot dogs, catering to health-conscious consumers who seek high-quality, ethically sourced options. The company prides itself on its commitment to animal welfare, ensuring that its products are free from antibiotics and chemicals. True Story Foods partners with small family farms that adhere to sustainable farming practices, emphasizing the importance of humane treatment of animals. Their product range includes items like organic turkey, chicken, beef, and specialty pork, such as Kurobuta. True Story Foods has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained growth model focused on quality and community engagement.

15. Jensen Meat Company

• Website: jensenmeat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: jensen-meat-co

Jensen Meat Company, based in San Diego, California, has been a player in the meat processing industry since its inception in 1958. The company specializes in high-quality ground beef products, catering to a wide range of clients including food service distributors, restaurants, and educational institutions. With a workforce of approximately 163 employees, Jensen Meat operates a state-of-the-art processing facility that produces over 250 stock-keeping units (SKUs) of retail and food-service products. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their refusal to use leftover scraps in their products, ensuring that only the best raw materials are utilized. Jensen Meat is also recognized for its proactive approach to food safety, achieving SQF 3 certification, which exceeds basic USDA requirements. Recently, the company has expanded its offerings to include plant-based products, reflecting a strategic response to changing consumer preferences. This adaptability, combined with a strong focus on quality and customer service, positions Jensen Meat as a relevant player in the meat processing industry.

16. Central Valley Meat Co., Inc.

• Website: centralvalleymeat.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Hanford, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: centralvalleymeat

Central Valley Meat Co., Inc., based in Hanford, California, is a family-owned meat processing company founded in 1990. The company specializes in beef products, offering a range of USDA graded cuts and ground beef. With a workforce of approximately 323 employees, Central Valley Meat processes over 1,500 head of cattle each day, serving processors, food service, and retail customers. The company operates with a strong focus on food safety and quality, holding BRC certification and adhering to strict sanitation practices. Central Valley Meat is also committed to sustainability, employing in-house wastewater treatment and energy-efficient practices. Their family values and community support initiatives reflect their dedication to not just business success, but also to the well-being of their employees and the environment.

17. Diestel Turkey Ranch

• Website: diestelturkey.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sonora, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1949
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: diestel-turkey-ranch

Diestel Turkey Ranch, based in Sonora, California, is a private turkey producer that has been in operation since 1949. The company is known for its high-quality turkey products, which include deli meats, whole turkeys, and specialty items. Diestel emphasizes health-conscious options, offering products that are antibiotic-free and non-GMO. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their regenerative farming practices, which aim to promote sustainability and animal welfare. With a workforce of approximately 55 employees, Diestel serves both consumers and businesses, catering to a growing demand for premium turkey products. The company has maintained its relevance in the meat processing industry through its focus on quality and consumer preferences.

18. Marin Sun Farms

• Website: marinsunfarms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Petaluma, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: marin-sun-farms

Marin Sun Farms, founded in 1999 and based in Petaluma, California, is a meat processing company that specializes in high-quality, sustainably sourced meats. The company operates the last USDA inspected slaughterhouse in the San Francisco Bay Area, which plays a vital role in supporting local livestock farmers and ensuring the availability of ethically raised meat. Marin Sun Farms is dedicated to grass-fed and pasture-raised livestock, emphasizing humane treatment and environmental stewardship. They work closely with local family farms, promoting sustainable land management practices and contributing to the resilience of the local food system. Their offerings include a variety of meats such as beef, lamb, goat, pork, and poultry, all raised without antibiotics or hormones. The company also engages in whole animal butchery, ensuring minimal waste and maximum utilization of resources. Marin Sun Farms serves both wholesale customers and individual consumers, reflecting their commitment to quality and community engagement.

19. Heartland Meat Company, Inc.

• Website: heartlandmeat.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Chula Vista, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: heartland-meat-company-inc.

Heartland Meat Company, Inc., based in Chula Vista, California, has been a prominent player in the meat processing industry since its founding in 1967. This family-owned business specializes in producing custom sliced, diced, and seasoned meats, catering primarily to the food service sector. Their product range includes beef, pork, poultry, seafood, and various food supplies, with a notable reputation for their signature carne asada picada, a popular choice among culinary professionals. Over the years, Heartland has built strong relationships with suppliers and customers, ensuring high standards of food safety and quality. Their distribution network extends across several states, including California, Arizona, and Texas, highlighting their regional influence. The company also emphasizes sustainability, utilizing solar power and hybrid delivery trucks to reduce their carbon footprint. Heartland Meat Company continues to adapt to the evolving needs of the food service industry, maintaining a focus on quality and customer satisfaction.

20. Cream Co. Meats

• Website: creamcomeats.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Oakland, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), May 2022
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: cream-co.

Cream Co. Meats, founded in 2016 and based in Oakland, California, is a family-owned meat distributor specializing in whole-animal butchery and sustainable meat sourcing. The company collaborates with over 25 family farms, ensuring high-quality meat products for chefs, butchers, and food service providers. Their operations prioritize transparency and responsible sourcing, catering to a growing demand for ethically produced meat. Cream Co. is committed to supporting small producers and has invested in a USDA cut and wrap facility to enhance their processing capabilities. They offer a full range of services, including custom butchery and next-day delivery, while also focusing on regenerative agricultural practices. Their innovative wholesale app streamlines the ordering process for clients, reflecting their commitment to modernizing the meat distribution experience.

21. 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, established in 1933, is a private meat manufacturer based in Industry, California. The company specializes in multicultural, ready-to-eat meat products, serving both the food service and retail markets. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Pocino Foods prides itself on delivering high-quality meats that reflect global culinary traditions. Their product lines include Italian-style meats, Asian-inspired dishes, and classic American and Mexican offerings, showcasing their ability to cater to a wide array of tastes. Pocino Foods emphasizes innovation and customer service, working closely with clients to enhance their culinary offerings. The company operates a USDA/BRC A+ rated facility, ensuring adherence to high safety and quality standards. Their commitment to continuous improvement and trend awareness positions them as a valuable partner in the meat processing industry.

22. Sterling Pacific Meat Company

• Website: sterlingpacificmeat.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Commerce, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: sterling-pacific-meat-co

Sterling Pacific Meat Company, based in Commerce, California, has been a significant player in the meat processing industry since its inception in 1976. The company specializes in providing high-quality beef, poultry, seafood, and specialty proteins to a variety of clients, including large restaurant chains, hotels, and theme parks. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, Sterling Pacific operates from a modern facility that spans over 70,000 square feet, equipped with advanced technology for processing and food safety. Their commitment to quality is underscored by their BRC certification, ensuring that they meet rigorous industry standards. Sterling Pacific also emphasizes custom protein processing, offering tailored solutions to meet the specific needs of their customers. Their extensive product range includes not only traditional meats but also exotic options like wild game, showcasing their ability to cater to diverse culinary demands. The company has maintained a strong focus on customer service and food safety, positioning itself as a reliable partner in the food service industry.

Meat Processing Companies Insights: Key Companies in California

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