Minnesota is home to a significant meat processing industry, characterized by a blend of traditional practices and modern techniques. Companies in this sector process various types of meat, including pork, beef, and poultry, catering to local markets and export demands. The industry is evolving with trends like an increasing focus on organic and sustainable practices, reflecting consumer awareness around health and ethics in food production. As technology advances, these companies are enhancing their safety measures and production efficiencies and even embracing innovative meat processing solutions to keep up with ever-changing eating habits.

This list features companies of varying sizes, ranging from small establishments to major corporations, predominantly located in Minnesota. Notable firms, like Jennie-O Turkey Store, founded in 1940, and family-owned operations, such as Christensen Farms, focus on specific meat types or bespoke processing services. Established between 1914 and 2008, these companies are united by a commitment to quality and sustainability, producing everything from fresh cuts to sausages and value-added products.

Continue reading to explore Minnesota's top meat processing companies.

Top 22 Meat Processing Companies Companies in Minnesota

1. Quality Pork Processors, Inc

• Website: qppinc.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Austin, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, United Kingdom (UK) 17%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: quality-pork-processors-inc

Quality Pork Processors, Inc. is a privately held meat processing company based in Austin, Minnesota, specializing in pork processing and packaging. Established in 1989, the company has built a reputation for delivering high-quality pork products to food service and retail sectors. They operate a facility that processes and packages pork, ensuring compliance with USDA and food safety standards. The company employs over 1,300 individuals, emphasizing a safe work environment and offering various employment opportunities in production and maintenance. Quality Pork Processors is dedicated to maintaining high safety standards and has implemented programs to ensure the well-being of its employees. Their focus on quality and safety has positioned them as a trusted name in the pork processing industry.

2. Lorentz Meats

• Website: lorentzmeats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cannon Falls, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lorentz-meats-%26-deli

Lorentz Meats, based in Cannon Falls, Minnesota, is a private meat processing company that has been in operation since 1968. The firm specializes in processing natural, organic, and grass-fed meats, providing services to local farmers and national niche meat brands. Their offerings include beef and bison processing, sausage production, and packaging. Lorentz Meats emphasizes quality and sustainability, ensuring that animal welfare is prioritized throughout their operations. They have invested in state-of-the-art equipment and facilities, which allows them to accommodate a variety of processing needs. The company has also expanded its capabilities over the years, including a significant facility expansion in 2013 to enhance food safety and processing efficiency. Their commitment to transparency is evident, as they invite customers to observe their production processes. Lorentz Meats has positioned itself as a partner to small and medium producers, helping them navigate the complexities of the niche meat market.

3. Jennie-O Turkey Store

• Website: jennieo.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Willmar, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: $344.4M, January 2001
• Founded year: 1940
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: jennie-o-turkey-store

Jennie-O Turkey Store, based in Willmar, Minnesota, is a prominent food manufacturer specializing in turkey products. Since its inception in 1940, the company has focused on providing a variety of turkey items, including ground turkey, sausages, deli meats, and whole turkeys. With a workforce of approximately 1,009 employees, Jennie-O emphasizes quality and safety in its production processes. The company actively engages with consumers by offering recipes, cooking tips, and resources to enhance the culinary experience. Their commitment to health-conscious eating is evident in their product lines, which cater to various dietary preferences. As a subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corporation, Jennie-O benefits from a robust corporate structure while maintaining a strong identity in the turkey market. The company exports its products to over 40 countries, reflecting its global reach and influence in the meat processing industry.

4. Swanson Meats Inc

• Website: swansonmeats.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1962
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: swanson-meats-inc

Swanson Meats Inc, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, has been a prominent player in the meat processing industry since its founding in 1962. As a family-owned business, it prides itself on its commitment to quality and customer service. The company offers a wide range of meat products, including beef, poultry, pork, lamb, and seafood, catering to both foodservice and retail sectors. Swanson Meats emphasizes sourcing from local family farms, ensuring that their products are fresh and of high quality. They also provide custom processing and co-packing services, allowing clients to create tailored meat products that meet specific needs. With a focus on food safety and customer satisfaction, Swanson Meats has built a reputation for reliability and excellence in the industry.

5. Von Hansons Meats

• Website: vonhansons.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Shakopee, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: von-hansons-meats

Von Hansons Meats, founded in 1983 and based in Shakopee, Minnesota, operates as a private meat market that emphasizes high-quality meat products. The company offers a range of meats, including beef, chicken, and pork, and is known for its wild game processing services. With a network of locations across Minnesota and one in Arizona, Von Hansons caters to consumers looking for premium meats in a friendly, old-fashioned butcher shop atmosphere. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their customer service philosophy, which aims to meet the needs of every customer. The company also engages in community involvement and fundraising, further solidifying its role in the local market. Although there is no reported funding, their established presence and specialized offerings contribute to their relevance in the meat processing industry.

6. McDonald's Meats

• Website: mcdonaldsmeats.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Clear Lake, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1914
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mcdonald%27s-meats

McDonald's Meats, established in 1914, is a family-owned meat market and processing facility located in Clear Lake, Minnesota. The company has built a reputation for high-quality meat products, offering custom processing services for beef, pork, and wild game. It also produces a range of homemade items, including sausages and jerky, which have garnered awards and recognition. As a USDA inspected facility, McDonald's Meats ensures that its processing meets industry standards. The company serves local consumers and hunters, providing tailored services that cater to specific needs. With a commitment to quality and community engagement, McDonald's Meats has become a staple in its region, known for its extensive product offerings and customer service.

7. Christensen Farms

• Website: christensenfarms.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Sleepy Eye, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: christensen-farms

Christensen Farms, established in 1974, is a family-owned pork producer based in Sleepy Eye, Minnesota. The company specializes in raising hogs and producing high-quality pork products, with a strong emphasis on animal welfare and sustainability. With nearly 1,000 employees and a network of 1,500 contract partners, Christensen Farms operates across the Midwest, managing 140,000 sows on 44 farms and overseeing over 350 nurseries and grow-finish sites. They are one of the largest family-owned pork producers in the United States, processing approximately 3.6 million hogs annually. Their strategic partnership with Triumph Foods, a producer-owned primary pork processing plant, allows them to enhance their processing capabilities and ensure quality assurance. Christensen Farms is committed to providing safe, nutritious food to millions while actively engaging in community support initiatives and sustainability efforts.

8. TFC Poultry

• Website: tfcpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Ashby, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tfc-poultry-llc

TFC Poultry, founded in 2008 and based in Ashby, Minnesota, is a private meat processing company that specializes in the deboning of turkey thighs. With a workforce of approximately 29 employees, the company operates with a focus on delivering high-quality poultry products to the food service and retail sectors. TFC Poultry employs advanced processing techniques, including x-ray and metal detection technology, to ensure the safety and integrity of its meat products. The company also offers a range of other poultry services and products, showcasing its capability to meet various customer needs. TFC Poultry's logistics management, which includes handling its own freight, further emphasizes its commitment to timely and efficient service delivery. This operational strategy positions TFC Poultry as a reliable partner in the meat processing industry.

9. Downs Food Group

• Website: downsfoodgroup.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Mankato, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: downs-food-group

Downs Food Group, based in Mankato, Minnesota, is a family-owned food processor and co-packer that has been in operation since 1947. The company specializes in fully-cooked proteins and frozen prepared foods, catering to businesses in the food service and retail sectors. With a workforce of approximately 201-500 employees, Downs Food Group emphasizes innovation and quality assurance in its operations. They produce a wide range of products, including whole muscle meats, meatballs, and frozen entrees, and are known for their commitment to food safety, adhering to stringent USDA standards. Their facilities are equipped with advanced manufacturing technology, allowing them to meet the evolving demands of their customers. Downs Food Group has built a reputation for reliability and quality, earning awards from various respected companies in the industry.

10. New Fashion Pork

• Website: nfpinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Jackson, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: new-fashion-pork-inc.

New Fashion Pork, founded in 1994 and based in Jackson, Minnesota, is a pork producer that specializes in high-quality pork production and animal care services. The company operates in several states, including Minnesota, Indiana, Iowa, Illinois, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Wisconsin. New Fashion Pork serves businesses throughout the food supply chain, providing reliable pork products and grain purchasing services. The company is dedicated to sustainability and employs best management practices to ensure the welfare of its animals and the environment. With a workforce of approximately 149 employees, New Fashion Pork is committed to continuous improvement and enhancing its value chain, leveraging technology and innovative practices to produce high-quality pork. The company also engages in community initiatives, reflecting its commitment to social responsibility and local engagement.

11. Rosen's Diversified, Inc.

• Website: rosensdiversifiedinc.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fairmont, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2020
• Founded year: 1946
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: rosen-s-diversified-inc

Rosen's Diversified, Inc., founded in 1946 by brothers Elmer and Ludwig Rosen, operates primarily in the agriculture and food production sectors. Based in Fairmont, Minnesota, the company has evolved into a corporate entity with a workforce of over 5,000 employees. It is known for its vertically integrated business model, which includes American Foods Group, a major beef processing entity that handles over 5 million pounds of beef daily. This subsidiary plays a crucial role in the meat processing industry, providing essential products and services to enhance food production. In addition to meat processing, Rosen's Diversified also engages in biomanufacturing and crop protection, showcasing its multifaceted approach to agriculture and food production. The company remains privately held and family-run, emphasizing its commitment to community and employee welfare.

12. Turkey Valley Farms, LLC

• Website: turkeyvalleyfarms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Marshall, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: turkey-valley-farms-llc

Turkey Valley Farms, LLC, based in Marshall, Minnesota, is a private food manufacturer that has been in operation since 1973. The company specializes in turkey products, offering a variety of items such as whole birds, bone-in breasts, and processed turkey products. With a workforce of approximately 400 employees, Turkey Valley Farms emphasizes quality and customer service, ensuring that their partners receive nutritious and reliable food options. They process around 150 million pounds of turkey each year, showcasing their significant role in the turkey industry. The company also engages in private label production, working with both small regional grocery chains and large national retailers, which highlights their flexibility and commitment to customer satisfaction. Turkey Valley Farms operates a modern processing facility and prides itself on delivering consistent quality in its products, making it a relevant player in the meat processing sector.

13. Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed

• Website: thousandhillslifetimegrazed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Clearwater, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: thousand-hills-lifetime-grazed

Thousand Hills Lifetime Grazed, founded in 2003 and based in Clearwater, Minnesota, is a private company specializing in grass-fed beef production. With a team of 11 to 50 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the meat industry by offering a variety of products, including steaks, ground beef, and jerky. Their focus is on providing healthy, ethically sourced beef while promoting regenerative agriculture practices. This approach not only supports animal welfare but also aims to restore and enhance natural resources. Thousand Hills sources its cattle from a network of 50 hand-selected family farms across the Midwest, Northeast, and West regions of the United States. Their commitment to quality and sustainability resonates with health-conscious consumers seeking premium meat options. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained business model that relies on direct consumer sales and subscriptions.

14. The Fish Guys/Market House Meats

• Website: thefishguysinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Louis Park, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-fish-guys-market-house-meats

The Fish Guys/Market House Meats, founded in 1999 and based in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, is a wholesale distributor specializing in seafood and meat products. Initially focused on seafood, the company expanded its offerings to include land-based proteins, establishing Market House Meats in 2018. They operate a USDA-certified plant in Northfield, Minnesota, which allows them to process meat while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards. The company serves a variety of clients, primarily restaurants and retail partners, and emphasizes quality and freshness in its product offerings. In 2024, they further diversified their portfolio by introducing Market House Provisions, which includes artisanal specialty products. The Fish Guys is dedicated to meeting the needs of its customers through a streamlined ordering process, including a mobile app for convenience.

15. Northern Pride Inc.

• Website: northernprideinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Thief River Falls, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: northern-pride-inc.

Northern Pride Inc. is a turkey processing company based in Thief River Falls, Minnesota. Established in 1989 by a group of independent turkey growers, the company operates a grower-owned facility that processes millions of turkeys each year. With a focus on high-quality products, Northern Pride serves a range of customers, including large and small retailers, distributors, and international markets. The company processes approximately 3 million turkeys annually, ensuring compliance with food safety standards through BRC Certification and HACCP methods. Northern Pride's product offerings include whole-bodied turkeys, specialty items, and organic options, catering to various consumer preferences. The cooperative model allows for a strong connection between growers and the processing facility, fostering a commitment to quality and sustainability in turkey production.

16. Alloy Process Engineering, Inc.

• Website: alloyhardfacing.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Jordan, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1952
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: alloy-process-engineering-inc

Alloy Process Engineering, Inc., based in Jordan, Minnesota, has been a significant player in the food processing industry since its founding in 1952. The company specializes in custom process designs and rendering solutions, particularly for poultry and red meat processing. Alloy offers a range of products and services, including rugged rendering equipment for cattle and hog processing, which has been a core part of their business since 1953. They also provide solutions for used cooking oil reclamation and wastewater treatment, catering to businesses in both food processing and waste management sectors. With a dedicated team and a facility that spans 55,000 square feet, Alloy is committed to delivering efficient and sustainable solutions that enhance operational performance for their clients. Their extensive experience and focus on engineering custom solutions make them a valuable partner in the meat processing industry.

17. Mason Brothers Company

• Website: masonbros.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Wadena, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: masonbrotherscompany

Mason Brothers Company, based in Wadena, Minnesota, has been a player in the grocery wholesale sector since its founding in 1920. The company specializes in providing a wide range of food products, with a notable emphasis on fresh meat, produce, and bakery items. They serve grocery retailers, ensuring timely deliveries and quality products. Mason Brothers operates under its own meat labels, including Heartland Farms Angus Beef and Heartland Farms All-Natural Pork, showcasing their commitment to quality and local sourcing. Their meat offerings include traditional cuts and a case-ready program, which caters to the needs of retail partners. Additionally, the company maintains a fleet of trucks for efficient distribution, further solidifying its logistical capabilities in the food supply chain.

18. Friesen's Inc.

• Website: friesensinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1939
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: friesen%27s-inc-

Friesen's Inc., founded in 1939 and based in Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, is a private manufacturing company that specializes in custom-engineered systems for the food processing and packaging industries. With a workforce of approximately 58 employees, the company has built a reputation for providing innovative equipment solutions tailored to the needs of its clients. Friesen's product range includes conveyors, inspection systems, and packing solutions, with a strong emphasis on sectors such as poultry, pork, beef, and snack foods. Their engineering expertise allows them to design systems that meet stringent hygiene and safety standards, which are critical in the food processing industry. Friesen's has established itself as a reliable partner for companies looking to enhance their processing capabilities, particularly in meat processing, where they supply essential machinery that supports efficient and safe operations.

19. Northern Waters Smokehaus

• Website: nwsmokehaus.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Duluth, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: northern-waters-smokehaus

Northern Waters Smokehaus, founded in 2001 and located in Duluth, Minnesota, is a family-owned business that specializes in smoked fish and meats. The company operates a catering service and retail outlet, providing high-quality smoked products to both consumers and businesses. Their menu features a variety of smoked meats, including sausages, hams, and fish, all made in small batches with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. They offer catering options for events ranging from weddings to corporate gatherings, showcasing their products in a variety of platters and sandwiches. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, Northern Waters Smokehaus has established itself as a unique player in the meat processing industry, serving a clientele that appreciates gourmet food experiences. They also provide national mail order services, allowing customers across the country to enjoy their smoked delicacies.

20. Jb

• Website: jbgroup.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Saint Michael, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Other 5%
• Founded year: 1979
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: j%26b-group

JB Group, founded in 1979 and based in St. Michael, Minnesota, is a family-owned company that specializes in logistics and food service, with a strong emphasis on custom protein manufacturing. The company operates a modern facility that spans 480,000 square feet and employs around 838 people. JB Group provides a comprehensive range of services, including wholesale distribution and cold storage, catering primarily to the food service and retail sectors. Their commitment to food safety is evident through their HACCP program and SQF certification, ensuring high-quality products for their customers. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, JB Group has established itself as a reliable partner for businesses seeking premium protein solutions and efficient logistics. They focus on customer satisfaction and have built a reputation for quality and service in the meat processing sector.

21. Farmers Union Industries, LLC

• Website: fuillc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Redwood Falls, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1929
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: farmers-union-industries

Farmers Union Industries, LLC, based in Redwood Falls, Minnesota, is a private agricultural company founded in 1929. It operates multiple facilities across Minnesota and Iowa, focusing on livestock feed manufacturing, pet food production, and agricultural equipment manufacturing. The company serves livestock producers and pet food manufacturers by providing high-quality ingredients essential for their operations. Notably, Farmers Union Industries includes Redwood Farms Meat Processors, a hog processing facility that creates a market for every hog, regardless of size, offering a variety of pork cuts. This facility not only processes meat but also contributes to the local economy and supports sustainable practices. The company emphasizes its commitment to preserving the family farm and operates with a focus on quality and sustainability in all its divisions.

22. Willmar Poultry Company Inc

• Website: willmarpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Willmar, Minnesota, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1960
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: willmar-poultry-company-inc

Willmar Poultry Company Inc, based in Willmar, Minnesota, has been a key player in the poultry sector since its founding in 1960. The company specializes in turkey production and offers a range of agricultural services, including the provision of feed, equipment, and medical supplies to independent growers. Willmar Poultry operates in close collaboration with its sister company, Turkey Valley Farms, to grow turkeys, ensuring a steady supply for commercial processing. Additionally, the company has a history of supporting local farmers by providing essential resources and services, which has helped to foster a robust agricultural community in the region. Willmar Poultry also owns Farm Service Elevator, which produces feed for various livestock, further solidifying its role in the agricultural supply chain.

Meat Processing Companies Insights: Key Companies in Minnesota

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