Iowa's food manufacturing industry is known for its robust production of food ingredients and products, with a strong focus on agricultural innovation. Companies in this sector produce everything from meat and dairy to snacks and specialty ingredients, becoming key players in regional and national markets. This industry's future leans towards sustainability, with rising consumer demand for organic and healthy options influencing production practices. Notably, Iowa's central location provides access to extensive agricultural resources, fostering growth. The industry balances tradition and modernity, adapting to trends while maintaining quality in a competitive marketplace.

The companies listed here range in size from small family operations to larger corporations with over 5,000 employees. Most are headquartered in vibrant cities like Muscatine and Des Moines, having been established from 1926 onwards. Specializations vary widely, with businesses producing everything from plant-based ingredients and gourmet sauces to frozen desserts and protein solutions. This blend of historical roots and modern innovations showcases Iowa’s strategic prowess in the food manufacturing sector.

Continue reading to discover the notable food manufacturing companies in Iowa.

Top 23 Food Manufacturing Companies in Iowa

1. Grain Processing Corporation

• Website: grainprocessing.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Muscatine, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: grain-processing-corporation

Grain Processing Corporation (GPC), based in Muscatine, Iowa, is a family-owned manufacturer specializing in food ingredients, beverage alcohol, and nutraceuticals. Established in 1927, GPC has built a reputation for providing high-quality, innovative ingredient solutions to various industries. The company operates several production facilities across the United States, including its headquarters in Muscatine, and has expanded its reach internationally with offices in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. GPC is known for its commitment to product safety and quality, ensuring that its offerings meet the highest standards. The company has also adapted to market demands by focusing on trends such as non-GMO products and plant-based ingredients, reflecting its responsiveness to consumer preferences. GPC's technical expertise and customer-centric approach further solidify its position in the food manufacturing sector.

2. KENT Corporation

• Website: kentww.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Muscatine, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kent-corporation

KENT Corporation, based in Muscatine, Iowa, is a family-owned company that has been active in the food production industry since its inception in 1927. The company specializes in a range of products, including dry and liquid food, beverage ingredients, animal nutrition, and pet products. KENT operates multiple manufacturing facilities across the United States and has a significant international presence, exporting to nearly 100 countries. Their brands include Grain Processing Corporation, KENT Nutrition Group, KENT Pet Group, and KENT Precision Foods Group, each focusing on specific market needs. KENT is dedicated to sustainability, investing in eco-friendly practices and community engagement. Their innovative approach to product development, particularly in plant-based ingredients and sustainable pet products, positions them as a relevant player in the food manufacturing sector.

3. West Liberty Foods

• Website: wlfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Liberty, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: west-liberty-foods

West Liberty Foods, L.L.C., founded in 1996, is a private food manufacturer based in West Liberty, Iowa. The company specializes in meat and poultry products, producing over 650 million pounds of food annually. With a workforce of approximately 1,092 employees, West Liberty Foods operates multiple facilities across the United States, including locations in Tremonton, Utah, and Bolingbrook, Illinois. Their product offerings include a range of proteins such as turkey, beef, pork, and chicken, catering to foodservice, retail, and co-packing markets. The company prides itself on its commitment to sustainability, animal welfare, and food safety, employing innovative practices like high pressure processing to enhance product safety and shelf life. West Liberty Foods has established itself as a trusted partner for grocery stores and restaurant chains, focusing on quality and customer collaboration to meet evolving market demands.

4. KENT Precision Foods Group

• Website: precisionfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Muscatine, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1992
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kent-precision-foods-group

KENT Precision Foods Group, based in Muscatine, Iowa, is a family-owned food manufacturer that specializes in the development, blending, and packaging of dry mix food products. Established in 1992, the company has grown steadily, serving a wide range of customers including foodservice operators and retail consumers. KENT Precision Foods Group is known for its commitment to quality and innovation, ensuring that their products meet the specific tastes and needs of their clientele. Their product lines include well-known brands such as Mrs. Wages®, Orrington Farms®, and Thick-It®, which are recognized in both foodservice and consumer markets. The company operates strategically throughout the Midwest, providing efficient service and high-quality specialty food products. With a dedicated team of culinary and research professionals, KENT Precision Foods Group continues to develop new products and improve existing formulations, maintaining a competitive edge in the food manufacturing industry.

5. Mrs. Clarks Foods

• Website: mrsclarks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Ankeny, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1926
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mrs-clarks-foods

Mrs. Clark's Foods, based in Ankeny, Iowa, is a private food manufacturer with a history that spans over 90 years. Founded in 1926, the company has developed a reputation for producing a variety of food products, including sauces, dressings, and beverages. They serve a wide range of clients in the food service industry, particularly schools and businesses, by providing high-quality manufacturing and packaging solutions. Mrs. Clark's Foods emphasizes quality and innovation in their operations, offering services that include product development, quality assurance testing, and co-manufacturing options. The company is SQF level 2 and organic certified, which reflects their commitment to food safety and quality. They also participate in the USDA Commodity Program, supplying food service items to school lunch programs across the United States. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Mrs. Clark's Foods continues to play a significant role in the food manufacturing sector.

6. Tur-Pak Foods, Inc.

• Website: kustompakfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Sioux City, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tur-pak-foods-inc.

Tur-Pak Foods, Inc., operating under the umbrella of Kustom Pak Foods, is a family-owned food processing company based in Sioux City, Iowa. Established in 1985, the company has grown from a home delivery supplier to a significant player in the food processing industry. Tur-Pak specializes in providing customized food solutions and co-packing services, catering to a variety of clients in the restaurant, retail, and foodservice sectors. Their extensive service offerings include product ideation, customized flavors, product duplicating, and cost-saving formulations. The company operates from a substantial production facility, which allows them to handle high-volume repacking and various cooking opportunities. With a focus on quality and innovation, Tur-Pak Foods has built long-term relationships with numerous household brand name customers, contributing to their reputation as a reliable food processor.

7. Allied Blending

• Website: alliedblending.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Keokuk, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: February 2014
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: allied-blending-%26-ingredient

Allied Blending LP, founded in 1981 and based in Keokuk, Iowa, is a private equity-owned food ingredient manufacturer. The company specializes in providing innovative solutions tailored for the food industry, focusing on high-quality ingredients that enhance product quality. Their product offerings include cheese anti-caking systems, tortilla blends, and plant-based formulations, catering primarily to food manufacturers. Allied Blending emphasizes quality assurance and customer service, ensuring that their clients receive reliable and effective solutions. The company operates multiple facilities, including locations in St. Louis, Missouri, and Bell, California, which support their extensive research and development efforts. With a dedicated team of food scientists and technical service experts, Allied Blending is well-equipped to address the evolving needs of the food manufacturing sector.

8. Kemin Industries

• Website: kemin.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 34%, Brazil 15%, India 9%, Other 42%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $65.0M, April 2023
• Founded year: 1961
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: kemin-industries

Kemin Industries, Inc. is a private ingredient manufacturer based in Des Moines, Iowa, established in 1961. The company employs approximately 2,079 people and operates across various sectors, including animal nutrition, human health, and food technologies. Kemin provides a broad array of products aimed at improving the quality and safety of food and dietary supplements. Their offerings include solutions for animal nutrition, aquaculture, crop technologies, and human nutrition, showcasing their integral role in the food supply chain. Kemin is dedicated to sustainable practices and innovation, which is evident in their recent funding of $65 million in April 2023, aimed at enhancing their capabilities and expanding their reach. With a global footprint that includes operations in multiple countries, Kemin is well-positioned to serve the evolving needs of the food manufacturing industry.

9. Essentia Protein Solutions

• Website: essentiaproteins.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Ankeny, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Denmark 40%, United States (USA) 19%, Sweden 13%, Other 27%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: essentia-protein-solutions

Essentia Protein Solutions, founded in 2015 and based in Ankeny, Iowa, is a private food manufacturer that specializes in meat-based ingredients and protein solutions. The company offers a wide range of products, including stocks, broths, and functional proteins, aimed at enhancing the nutritional value and flavor of food products for both human consumption and pet food. With a workforce of around 224 employees, Essentia operates multiple production facilities across Europe and the Americas, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to market demands. Their commitment to quality is evident in their clean-label offerings, which are free from major allergens, catering to the growing consumer preference for natural ingredients. Essentia's innovation centers facilitate collaboration with clients, allowing them to develop tailored solutions that meet evolving market trends. The company has a rich history, with roots tracing back to the 1970s, and has continuously evolved through strategic acquisitions and modernization of its facilities. This background, combined with their focus on sustainability and customer-centric solutions, positions Essentia as a significant player in the food manufacturing industry.

10. Burke Corporation

• Website: burkecorp.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Nevada, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $110.0M, August 2007
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: burke-corporation

Burke Corporation, based in Nevada, Iowa, has been a significant player in the meat manufacturing industry since its inception in 1974. The company specializes in fully cooked meats and pizza toppings, catering primarily to the foodservice sector, including restaurants and food manufacturers. With a strong emphasis on convenience and food safety, Burke provides high-quality products designed to enhance menu options and streamline food preparation processes. Their extensive product catalog includes a variety of meat offerings, from traditional sausage crumbles to innovative plant-based alternatives. Burke's commitment to quality is reflected in their rigorous food safety standards, including SQF 2000 – Level 3 Certification. The company has also invested in expanding its production capabilities, doubling its facility size to better serve its customers. This growth underscores Burke's dedication to meeting the evolving demands of the food industry.

11. AgCertain Industries, Inc.

• Website: agcertain.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Ames, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $3.9M, April 2023
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: agcertain-industries-inc

AgCertain Industries, Inc., founded in 2019 and based in Ames, Iowa, is a manufacturing company that specializes in food, agricultural, and bio-based products. The company produces refined glycerin and specialty edible oils, catering to businesses in the food and beverage sector, as well as personal care industries. AgCertain operates a state-of-the-art production facility in Boone, Iowa, which is designed for flexibility and scalability to meet evolving market demands. Their commitment to quality is evident through their adherence to stringent protocols, including HACCP and GMP, and they hold various certifications such as SQF, Kosher, and USDA Organic. Recently, AgCertain secured $3,915,000 in funding, indicating their active pursuit of growth and innovation within the industry. The company emphasizes collaboration with clients to tailor their services, ensuring that they meet specific business needs while maintaining high-quality standards throughout their operations.

12. Wells Enterprises

• Website: wellsenterprisesinc.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Le Mars, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2022
• Founded year: 1913
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wells-enterprises

Wells Enterprises, Inc. is an ice cream manufacturer based in Le Mars, Iowa, recognized for its family-owned heritage and commitment to quality. Founded in 1913, the company has grown from a small dairy operation to the largest family-owned ice cream producer in the United States. Wells produces a variety of ice cream and frozen dessert products under well-known brands such as Blue Bunny, Halo Top, Bomb Pop, and Blue Ribbon Classics. The company emphasizes food safety and responsible sourcing, ensuring that their products meet high standards. With a workforce of approximately 1,773 employees, Wells operates manufacturing facilities in Iowa and New York, and it serves both consumers and businesses. The company is also involved in community initiatives, contributing to local organizations and promoting charitable commitments. Wells Enterprises is now an independent operating company of the Ferrero Group, which enhances its market presence and operational capabilities.

13. Todd's Food's - Co-Packing

• Website: todds.co
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1926
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: todd%27s-pantry

Todd's Foods - Co-Packing, based in Des Moines, Iowa, has been a significant player in the food manufacturing sector since its inception in 1926. The company specializes in contract food manufacturing and packaging, offering tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of its clients. Their services include co-packing, bulk blending, and a variety of packaging options for both dry and liquid products. Todd's Foods prides itself on maintaining high standards of food safety and quality, supported by their SQF certification and a robust HACCP program. They serve a wide range of customers, from large corporations to small startups, helping them transform ideas into market-ready products. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Todd's continues to evolve, recently expanding its capabilities with new production lines for liquid packaging set to launch in 2024.

14. Frontier Co-op

• Website: frontiercoop.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Norway, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 91%, Norway 5%, Canada 2%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: August 2012
• Founded year: 1976
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: frontier-coop

Frontier Co-op, founded in 1976 and based in Norway, Iowa, is a for-profit company that specializes in natural and organic products. Their product range includes culinary herbs, spices, and aromatherapy items, catering to both consumers and businesses. The company emphasizes sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that their products meet high-quality standards. Frontier Co-op operates primarily as a wholesaler and retailer, facilitating online purchases and offering a variety of health and personal care products. They have also engaged in initiatives like the SPICE project, which aims to empower smallholder farmers and enhance the availability of spices and teas in U.S. markets. This involvement highlights their commitment to ethical sourcing and community support within the food industry.

15. Midamar Corporation

• Website: midamar.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Cedar Rapids, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1974
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: midamar-corporation

Midamar Corporation, founded in 1974 and based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is a family-owned business specializing in Halal food products. The company offers a broad array of Halal meat and grocery items, serving a variety of customers including grocery stores, schools, and restaurants. Midamar operates both as a manufacturer and distributor, ensuring that their products meet stringent Halal standards. Over the years, they have expanded their operations to include export services, helping U.S. companies navigate international markets. Their commitment to quality and compliance has made them a trusted name in the Halal food industry. Midamar also engages in community service, supporting charitable organizations with food donations, which reflects their commitment to social responsibility. With over 45 years of experience, Midamar continues to adapt and grow, catering to the needs of Halal consumers both domestically and internationally.

16. La Quercia

• Website: laquercia.us
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Norwalk, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: laquercia

La Quercia, founded in 2003 and based in Norwalk, Iowa, is a private company specializing in the production of artisan cured meats. The company focuses on high-quality charcuterie crafted from heritage breed pork, offering a variety of products such as prosciutto, salami, pancetta, and guanciale. La Quercia emphasizes sustainability and humane practices in its sourcing, ensuring that the pork used is raised without confinement and without antibiotics. This commitment to quality and ethical production resonates with consumers and businesses alike, making La Quercia a respected name in the food industry. Their products are not only available for direct consumer purchase but also cater to wholesale inquiries, indicating their active involvement in both retail and food service sectors.

17. Snappy Popcorn Co

• Website: snappypopcorn.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Breda, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1940
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: snappy-popcorn-co

Snappy Popcorn Co, based in Breda, Iowa, has been a family-owned business since its inception in 1940. The company specializes in the manufacturing and distribution of popcorn and concession supplies. They produce a wide array of products, including popcorn kernels, microwave popcorn, and various concession equipment such as popcorn machines and cotton candy makers. Snappy Popcorn serves a broad customer base, including food service businesses and individual consumers seeking quality snack options. The company prides itself on its strong customer service and commitment to quality, processing farm-fresh popcorn and offering over 5,000 concession products worldwide. Their production facility allows them to maintain control over the quality of their popcorn, ensuring that they meet the needs of their customers effectively.

18. American Pop Corn Company (JOLLY TIME Pop Corn)

• Website: jollytime.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Sioux City, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Indonesia 11%
• Founded year: 1914
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: american-pop-corn-company-jolly-time-pop-corn-

American Pop Corn Company, operating under the JOLLY TIME Pop Corn brand, is a family-owned snack food manufacturer based in Sioux City, Iowa. Founded in 1914, the company has built a reputation for its quality popcorn products, which include a wide range of offerings such as microwave popcorn, healthy options, and bulk kernels. JOLLY TIME actively engages with its customers by providing recipes and maintaining a strong online presence, which enhances its brand loyalty. The company prides itself on its commitment to customer satisfaction and quality, ensuring that its products meet the evolving preferences of snack consumers. With a workforce of approximately 76 employees, JOLLY TIME continues to thrive in the competitive snack food industry, focusing on delivering happiness through its popcorn products.

19. Brown Family Farms

• Website: brownfamfarms.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Woden, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: brownfamfarms

Brown Family Farms, established in 2017 and located in Woden, Iowa, is a family-owned farm dedicated to sustainable agriculture and food production. The farm spans approximately 9 acres and is operated by Myla Brown and her husband Shaun, along with their children. They specialize in a variety of products, including baked goods, fresh produce, and pasture-raised meats, which they sell directly to consumers. The farm is actively involved in the local community, participating in farmers markets and promoting high-quality, natural food options. Their agricultural practices are described as 'beyond organic,' as they avoid the use of chemicals and prioritize animal welfare by allowing their livestock to free-range on pasture. Brown Family Farms aims to expand its offerings to include more local products, reflecting a growing demand for sustainable food sources.

20. Rembrandt Foods

• Website: rembrandtfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Rembrandt, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: rembrandt-foods

Rembrandt Foods, founded in 2000 and based in Rembrandt, Iowa, is a private company that specializes in the production of egg products. With a workforce of around 210 employees, the company has established itself as a key supplier of high-quality egg-based solutions for various sectors, including food service, nutrition, and healthcare. Their product offerings include dried, liquid, frozen, and pre-cooked egg products, which are designed to meet the needs of diverse clients such as restaurants, bakeries, and schools. Rembrandt Foods emphasizes sustainable practices, focusing on efficient production methods that minimize waste and environmental impact. Their commitment to animal welfare and community involvement further enhances their reputation in the industry. The company has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model that relies on its established market presence and customer relationships.

21. American Natural Processors

• Website: americannaturalprocessors.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Cherokee, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: american-natural-processors

American Natural Processors, based in Cherokee, Iowa, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been operational since 1996. The company specializes in the organic processing of vegetable oils and proteins, offering a range of services including oil extraction, expeller cold pressing, and contract manufacturing. With a focus on flexibility and innovation, American Natural Processors has developed multiple production lines to meet the specific needs of their clients. They pride themselves on their chemical-free processing methods, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of organic products. The company operates four facilities in Iowa, strategically located to leverage the region's fertile agricultural landscape. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction has earned them a reputation for excellence in organic processing, making them a valuable partner for food companies seeking high-quality organic ingredients.

22. Seaboard Triumph Foods

• Website: seaboardtriumphfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sioux City, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: seaboardtriumphfoods

Seaboard Triumph Foods, established in 2016, is a pork processing company located in Sioux City, Iowa. The company operates a state-of-the-art facility that produces high-quality pork products for well-known brands such as Prairie Fresh and Daily’s Premium Meats. With a workforce of over 2,800 employees, Seaboard Triumph Foods emphasizes safety, sustainability, and community involvement in its operations. The company is dedicated to maintaining high standards in food safety and quality assurance, employing nearly 100 team members in its Food Safety & Quality Assurance department. Their commitment to animal welfare is evident through their sourcing practices, which involve partnerships with reputable farms. Seaboard Triumph Foods also actively engages in community support initiatives, contributing to local health and education programs. Their operational model, which integrates various stages of production, allows them to ensure a reliable supply of pork while adhering to ethical practices.

23. Wapsie Creamery

• Website: wapsievalley.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Independence, Iowa, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $100,000, June 2024
• Founded year: 1906
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: wapsie-creamery

Wapsie Valley Creamery, Inc. is a family-owned dairy manufacturer located in Independence, Iowa. Founded in 1906, the company has been a consistent player in the dairy industry for over a century. Wapsie specializes in producing high-quality cheese, lactose, and whey products. They source their milk from more than 170 independent dairy farms across Iowa, Wisconsin, and Illinois, ensuring a steady supply of quality raw materials. The company has adapted its manufacturing processes to meet the changing demands of the dairy market, focusing on efficiency and quality. Wapsie does not market its products under its own label; instead, they sell to wholesale companies that package the cheese for retail. Their commitment to quality is evident in their rigorous standards and inspections, which are upheld by both internal and external agencies. Recently, Wapsie Creamery received a grant of $100,000 in June 2024, indicating ongoing investment in their operations and future growth.

Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Iowa

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