The food manufacturing industry in Nebraska is a robust segment focused on processing and producing various food products. This includes everything from meat, snacks, spices, to gourmet popcorn. Notable for its agricultural backbone, the industry benefits from access to local ingredients, enhancing quality and appeal. Companies often leverage innovative processes to address changing consumer preferences, such as healthier choices and sustainable sourcing. With increasing interest in organic and specialty foods, the industry is set for growth, aiming for both local and global distribution. In recent years, investments in technology and food safety have also been pivotal.

This list highlights 23 food manufacturing companies operating in Nebraska, ranging from small family-owned businesses to large private corporations. With founding years stretching back to the early 20th century, they reflect a rich history in the industry. Companies specialize in products like high-quality meats, baked goods, and gluten-free options, keeping pace with consumer trends. Headquartered in cities like Omaha and Fremont, these firms maintain a strong local presence while serving both national and international markets, showcasing a mix of size and specialization throughout the state.

Continue reading to discover the top food manufacturing companies in Nebraska.

Top 23 Food Manufacturing Companies in Nebraska

1. Marathon Ventures, Inc.

• Website: marathonventuresinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Bellevue, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1915
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: marathon-ventures-inc.

Marathon Ventures, Inc., based in Bellevue, Nebraska, is a food manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1915. The company specializes in producing snack foods and baking ingredients, offering a range of products that include snack nuts, popcorn, and coffee. They serve various sectors within the food industry, particularly focusing on private label manufacturing and innovative food solutions. Marathon Ventures prides itself on high-quality offerings that align with evolving consumer trends. Their facility is SQF approved, ensuring that they meet rigorous food safety standards. The company operates multiple processing and packaging capabilities, allowing them to create a variety of kosher-certified food products. With a commitment to collaboration and customer success, Marathon Ventures positions itself as a reliable partner for businesses in the food retail and service industries.

2. Westin Foods

• Website: westinfoods.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: westin-foods

Westin Foods, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a family-owned food manufacturer that has been active in the packaged food industry since the 1960s. The company produces a variety of products, including bacon, frozen hash browns, and health-focused items like Aronia berry products. They serve a wide range of customers, from retail grocery stores to food service companies, emphasizing quality and innovation in their offerings. Westin Foods operates with a dependable supply chain and has a history of adapting to consumer needs and market trends. Recently, they expanded their portfolio by acquiring Mr. Dell Foods, a company known for its frozen hash browns, which enhances their market presence. With a commitment to superior service and product quality, Westin Foods continues to build on its founder's vision and legacy in the food industry.

3. TOBA Inc.

• Website: tobafoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Grand Island, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2017
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: toba-inc.

TOBA Inc., founded in 1995 and based in Grand Island, Nebraska, is a corporate holding company that operates primarily in the food service industry. It manages three subsidiaries: Wald Family Foods, Midwest Restaurant Supply, and Agency 877. Wald Family Foods is particularly significant, as it specializes in food manufacturing, providing a wide range of products tailored for food service, schools, military bases, and retail markets. Their offerings include gluten-free pizzas, soups, and pastas, catering to the growing demand for gluten-free options. The company prides itself on its commitment to quality, with facilities that are SQF-certified and recognized by the Celiac Support Association for gluten-free production. Midwest Restaurant Supply complements this by supplying kitchen and dining equipment, while Agency 877 focuses on marketing services. TOBA Inc. aims to fill voids in the food service industry, leveraging its decades of experience to serve its customers effectively.

4. Omaha Steaks

• Website: omahasteaks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1917
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: omahasteaks

Omaha Steaks, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private food retailer that specializes in high-quality meat and seafood products. Founded in 1917, the company has built a strong brand around gourmet cooking at home, offering a wide array of items such as steaks, burgers, franks, chicken, pork, and seafood. Their business model primarily revolves around an online platform, which allows customers to conveniently order products for delivery. Omaha Steaks has also expanded its offerings to include prepared meals, sides, desserts, and even wine, catering to a broad audience that values quality and convenience. The company has maintained a commitment to customer satisfaction, promising to replace or refund any unsatisfactory purchase, a practice upheld for five generations. With a workforce of over 1,300 employees, Omaha Steaks continues to thrive in the competitive food industry, focusing on quality and customer engagement.

5. International Spices

• Website: internationalspices.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: international-spices

International Spices, founded in 1981 and based in Fremont, Nebraska, is a private spice manufacturer dedicated to the food industry. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, the company specializes in creating, blending, and packaging spices tailored to the needs of restaurants and food manufacturers. Their offerings include custom spice blends, original blends, bulk spices, and flexible packaging options. The company prides itself on its high standards of food safety and quality control, ensuring that all spices are blended in-house with rigorous oversight. International Spices actively engages with executive chefs and test kitchens to stay ahead of flavor trends, allowing them to develop innovative recipes that meet evolving consumer tastes. Their operations are strategically located in the heart of the agricultural sector, providing them with a unique perspective on sourcing and quality. They emphasize responsive service, often accommodating special requests that larger companies may overlook, which further solidifies their position in the industry.

6. Landmark Snacks

• Website: landmarksnacks.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beatrice, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: landmark-snacks

Landmark Snacks, based in Beatrice, Nebraska, specializes in the production of high-quality meat-based snacks, including protein bars. Since its inception in 2015, the company has focused on serving nationally branded customers within the food industry, providing co-packing services that allow for tailored production solutions. Landmark Snacks has expanded its processing capabilities significantly, operating multiple ovens and employing a workforce that has grown to over 200 employees. The company operates seven days a week, reflecting its commitment to meeting customer demands and maintaining a robust production schedule. Their history includes a series of strategic expansions and upgrades to their facilities, which have enhanced their operational efficiency and product offerings.

7. Wald Family Foods

• Website: waldfamilyfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: wald-family-foods

Wald Family Foods, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private food manufacturer founded in 2018. The company specializes in producing a wide range of food products, including soups, pasta, and gluten-free options. They cater to various sectors such as food service, retail, and military, focusing on delivering high-quality and convenient food solutions. Wald Family Foods prides itself on its ability to meet diverse dietary needs, particularly through its gluten-free offerings. The company operates USDA-inspected and SQF-certified facilities, ensuring that their products meet stringent safety and quality standards. They also engage in private label production, allowing them to partner with other brands to create customized food products. With a workforce of around 72 employees, Wald Family Foods is positioned to grow within the food manufacturing industry, responding to the increasing demand for specialty food items.

8. Ag Processing Inc

• Website: agp.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 99%
• Latest funding: $250.0M, April 2022
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: ag-processing-inc

Ag Processing Inc (AGP), founded in 1983 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, is an agribusiness cooperative that specializes in the processing and marketing of soybean products. The company operates ten soybean processing plants across the Midwest, producing high-quality soybean meal and crude soybean oil. These products are vital for livestock feed and food manufacturing, serving both domestic and global customers. AGP also refines soybean oil for use in food service and manufacturing sectors, including applications in salad oils, margarines, and cooking oils. In addition to their core products, AGP produces biodiesel, contributing to renewable energy solutions. The cooperative model allows AGP to serve approximately 200,000 farmers through local and regional cooperatives, ensuring a steady supply of agricultural products. Recently, AGP secured $250 million in funding, indicating ongoing investment in their operations and growth.

9. Preferred Popcorn

• Website: preferredpopcorn.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chapman, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 68%, India 16%, Mexico 16%
• Latest funding: November 2016
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: preferred-popcorn

Preferred Popcorn, based in Chapman, Nebraska, is a gourmet popcorn manufacturer that specializes in high-quality popcorn products. Established in 1997, the company has grown from a small operation to a significant player in the popcorn industry, supplying a variety of products including bulk popcorn, microwave popcorn, and private label options. Their customer base includes movie theaters, retailers, and popcorn enthusiasts, reflecting their broad market appeal. The company prides itself on sustainable practices, sourcing popcorn from dedicated farmers and focusing on eco-friendly packaging solutions. Preferred Popcorn has also been recognized for its contributions to the industry, receiving accolades such as Nebraska's small manufacturer of the year. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Preferred Popcorn continues to thrive in the competitive food manufacturing landscape.

10. Glenn Valley Foods

• Website: glennvalleyfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: glenn-valley-foods

Glenn Valley Foods, founded in 1981 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private meat processing company that specializes in producing quick-cooking meat products, including sirloin, chicken, and corned beef. The company caters to grocery stores, restaurants, and consumers who seek convenient meal solutions. Their flagship product, Gary's QuickSteak, allows for meals to be prepared in under five minutes, appealing to busy individuals and families. Glenn Valley Foods operates from a state-of-the-art facility that has received SQF certification, ensuring high standards of food safety and quality. The company has a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, offering a variety of recipes and meal ideas to enhance the consumer experience. With a workforce of 201-500 employees, Glenn Valley Foods continues to innovate and adapt to the evolving demands of the food industry.

11. Westin Packaged Meats, Inc.

• Website: westinpackagedmeats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fairbury, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1971
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: westin-packaged-meats-inc-

Westin Packaged Meats, Inc., based in Fairbury, Nebraska, is a private meat manufacturer that specializes in processed bacon products. Founded in 1971, the company has carved out a niche in the market by producing high-quality bacon bits, bacon-flavored bits, and salad toppings. They cater to a variety of clients, including food service distributors, retailers, and restaurants, providing convenient and flavorful bacon options that meet consumer demand. Operating from state-of-the-art facilities, Westin Packaged Meats employs proprietary processes to ensure product quality and safety. The company has received recognition for its commitment to health and safety, including the OSHA SHARP Award, which underscores its dedication to maintaining high standards in food production. With a focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Westin Packaged Meats continues to be a relevant player in the meat processing industry.

12. Tecumseh Poultry LLC, Smart Chicken

• Website: smartchicken.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Waverly, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: June 2018
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: tecumseh-poultry-llc

Tecumseh Poultry LLC, known for its Smart Chicken brand, is a poultry producer based in Waverly, Nebraska. Founded in 1998, the company specializes in high-quality chicken products, offering a range of natural and organic air-chilled chicken options. Their product line includes whole chickens, various chicken parts, and fully cooked sausages. Smart Chicken is recognized for its commitment to quality, ethical sourcing, and humane farming practices. The company employs a unique air-chilling process that preserves the natural flavor and tenderness of the meat, minimizing water contamination risks. This innovative method has made Smart Chicken a preferred choice among health-conscious consumers and retailers alike. With a workforce of around 161 employees, the company operates entirely within the United States, ensuring a focus on local production and distribution.

13. Lincoln Premium Poultry

• Website: lincolnpremiumpoultry.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Fremont, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2010
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: lincoln-premium-poultry

Lincoln Premium Poultry, based in Fremont, Nebraska, is a poultry production company that was established in 2016. The company was created to manage poultry operations for Costco, which has invested significantly in a state-of-the-art processing facility, hatchery, and feed mill in the region. Lincoln Premium Poultry is dedicated to developing a network of local growers, ensuring that their poultry products meet high standards of quality and safety. They prioritize responsible animal husbandry and environmental practices, reflecting a commitment to ethical food production. The company plays a crucial role in the local economy, with its operations expected to generate substantial economic impact across Nebraska and Iowa. Their focus on utilizing local resources, such as corn and soybeans for feed, further strengthens their ties to the community and enhances their operational sustainability.

14. Skylark Meats, LLC

• Website: skylarkmeats.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 85%, India 15%
• Founded year: 1975
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: skylark-meats-llc

Skylark Meats, LLC, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private meat processing company that has been serving the market since 1975. Specializing in high-quality liver and variety meats, Skylark is dedicated to providing nutritious meat products that cater to health-conscious consumers. As a member of the American Foods Group, the company benefits from a robust network and resources, enhancing its operational capabilities. Skylark prides itself on its commitment to quality, value, and heritage, ensuring that its products reflect traditional flavors and high standards. The company offers a range of products, including beef and calf liver, as well as various variety meats like beef feet and tripe. Skylark Meats continues to focus on delivering butcher-quality products that meet the needs of families across the United States.

15. Fremont Beef Company

• Website: fremontbeef.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: fremont-beef-company

Fremont Beef Company, founded in 1990 and located in Fremont, Nebraska, is a private meat processing firm that specializes in high-quality beef, pork, and chicken products. The company has established itself as a key player in the meat industry, exporting its products globally, including specialty items such as Kobe and Wagyu beef. With a workforce of 201-500 employees, Fremont Beef has expanded its operations over the years, adapting to market demands and maintaining a focus on premium meat offerings. The company has a strong commitment to quality, as evidenced by its certifications and active participation in the community. Their state-of-the-art facility, which includes advanced freezing technology, ensures that they meet rigorous quality standards, particularly for their international exports. Fremont Beef continues to seek new opportunities for growth and product development, solidifying its position in the food manufacturing sector.

16. Certified Piedmontese

• Website: piedmontese.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lincoln, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: certified-piedmontese

Certified Piedmontese, founded in 2011 and based in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a private beef producer that specializes in high-quality, lean beef products. The company offers a variety of beef options, including both grass-finished and grain-finished varieties, catering to consumers and businesses such as restaurants. Their focus on health benefits is evident, as their beef contains fewer calories and less fat compared to traditional beef, while also being higher in protein. Certified Piedmontese beef is raised without antibiotics, steroids, or hormones, ensuring humane treatment and environmental sustainability. The company prides itself on its ranch-to-fork approach, which guarantees traceability and adherence to strict animal welfare standards. They have established a reputation for producing tender and flavorful beef, which is served in some of the nation’s top restaurants. Their commitment to quality and responsible farming practices distinguishes them in the competitive food manufacturing industry.

17. White River Nutrition

• Website: whiteriversoy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $7.5M, February 2024
• Founded year: 2023
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: white-river-soy-processing

White River Nutrition, founded in 2023 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, operates oilseed processing facilities across the United States. The company specializes in producing a range of high-quality soybean products, including meal, oil, flour, hulls, flakes, and grits. These products cater to both the food and feed industries, emphasizing optimal nutrient retention to enhance the nutritional value of their offerings. White River Nutrition is dedicated to building strong partnerships with local farmers, which not only supports the agricultural community but also ensures a reliable supply of quality soybeans. In early 2024, the company secured $7.5 million in funding, reflecting investor confidence in its growth potential. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, White River Nutrition is poised to make a significant impact in the food manufacturing sector.

18. Great Plains Beef

• Website: greatplainsbeef.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lincoln, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: great-plains-beef

Great Plains Beef, founded in 2011 and based in Lincoln, Nebraska, is a private beef producer and processor that specializes in premium grass-fed and grass-finished beef. The company sources its cattle from family ranches across the Midwest, employing sustainable ranching techniques that avoid the use of hormones, antibiotics, or steroids. Great Plains Beef caters primarily to grocery stores and major retailers, providing high-quality meat products that meet the increasing consumer demand for ethically sourced food. Their operations include not only beef production but also processing and packaging services, which are designed to help clients enhance their product offerings. The company operates a modern USDA-inspected facility and offers a range of support services, including product consultation and logistics, to ensure that their partners can deliver retail-ready products. With a commitment to sustainability and quality, Great Plains Beef is positioned to make a significant impact in the food manufacturing industry.

19. Rotella's Italian Bakery, Inc.

• Website: rotellasbakery.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: La Vista, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1921
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: rotellas-bakery

Rotella's Italian Bakery, Inc., based in La Vista, Nebraska, is a family-owned bakery that has been crafting high-quality bread and rolls since its founding in 1921. The company prides itself on blending traditional baking methods with modern production techniques, allowing them to produce an impressive range of approximately 400 different baked goods. Their product line includes various types of bread loaves, rolls, hoagies, and gluten-free options, catering to both food service and retail markets. Rotella's has established a reputation for quality, consistently using the finest ingredients and maintaining a strong focus on customer satisfaction. The bakery has also expanded its reach into the retail sector, becoming a favorite brand in Omaha and beyond. With a commitment to innovation and a family-oriented approach, Rotella's continues to thrive in the competitive food manufacturing industry.

20. American Laboratories

• Website: americanlaboratories.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, Puerto Rico 3%
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: american-laboratories

American Laboratories, founded in 1967 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a private manufacturer that specializes in nutrition and food processing products. The company produces a wide array of enzymes and ingredients tailored for both human and pet nutrition, addressing critical needs in these markets. Their product line includes pancreatin, pepsin, bile, and various fungal and plant enzymes, all of which support digestive health and enhance food processing capabilities. American Laboratories serves manufacturers in the food industry, providing essential ingredients that contribute to the quality and efficacy of food products. With a workforce of approximately 100 employees, the company operates primarily in the United States, with a small presence in Puerto Rico. As a wholly-owned subsidiary of American Laboratories Holdings, LLC, they maintain a focused approach to their niche within the food manufacturing sector.

21. Kelley Bean Company

• Website: kelleybean.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Scottsbluff, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1927
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: kelley-bean-co

Kelley Bean Company, based in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, has been a family-owned business since its inception in 1927. Specializing in the marketing and distribution of dry edible beans, the company sources its products from local growers, ensuring high quality and freshness. Kelley Bean serves a wide range of customers, including businesses in the food industry and individual consumers. Their product offerings include various bean types such as Pinto, Great Northern, Black, and Chickpeas, among others. The company emphasizes sustainability in its operations, reflecting a commitment to responsible farming practices and community engagement. With a workforce of 201-500 employees, Kelley Bean is dedicated to maintaining strong relationships with both growers and customers, striving to exceed expectations in service and product quality.

22. Greater Omaha Packing Co

• Website: greateromaha.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1920
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: greater-omaha-packing-co-inc-

Greater Omaha Packing Co, based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a family-owned meat processing company that specializes in high-quality beef products. Since its inception in 1920, the company has focused on maintaining rigorous standards for food safety and humane treatment of animals. Operating a single-source processing facility, Greater Omaha Packing processes approximately 2,400 cattle daily, supplying beef to customers across the United States and over 70 countries worldwide. The company prides itself on sourcing cattle from local, family-owned producers within a 250-mile radius, ensuring that the cattle are well cared for and meet their high-quality standards. Their commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing is evident in their partnerships with local ranchers and their efforts to support the agricultural community. Greater Omaha Packing also emphasizes innovation in food safety, employing advanced techniques to ensure the wholesomeness of their products. This dedication to quality and community involvement positions them as a significant player in the food manufacturing industry.

23. Wholestone Farms

• Website: wholestonefarms.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: wholestonefarms

Wholestone Farms, based in Fremont, Nebraska, is a farmer-owned pork processing company established in 2018. With a workforce of approximately 1,300 employees, the company is dedicated to producing high-quality pork products while prioritizing sustainable farming practices. Wholestone Farms collaborates with 235 independent farmers across the Midwest, ensuring that all pork is raised responsibly. Their operations reflect a commitment to animal welfare, food safety, and environmental stewardship. The company actively engages in community initiatives, supporting local education and development programs. Wholestone Farms aims to bring consumers closer to the farmers who produce their food, fostering transparency and trust in the supply chain. Their focus on quality and sustainability makes them a notable player in the pork processing industry.

Food Manufacturing Insights: Key Companies in Nebraska

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