Poultry is not just a source of protein; it’s a lifeline of the American diet, with chicken being the most popular choice for meat in the United States. The poultry industry is an essential part of US agriculture, contributing billions of dollars to the economy annually and providing a significant number of jobs. In this top 10 list, we’ll dive deep into the leading poultry companies that have made a mark on the industry by ensuring a steady supply of high-quality products and driving innovation. Let’s start our pecking order from number ten and work our way to the top hen in the coop.
#10 Perdue Farms
Founded in 1920, Perdue Farms has grown from a small family operation to a major poultry player in the US. With a longstanding commitment to quality, Perdue is known for its humanely-raised chicken with no hormones or steroids. They have also made strides in sustainability, operating some of the most eco-friendly processing facilities in the country. Perdue Farm’s product range has diversified over the years and now includes turkey, pork, and beef.
#9 Sanderson Farms
As the third largest poultry producer in the US, Sanderson Farms stands out for its refusal to jump on the antibiotic-free bandwagon, insisting that judicious use of these medicines is vital to animal health. With its headquarters in Mississippi, this company prides itself on producing more than 13.65 million chickens per week. They also offer a range of fresh, frozen, and prepared food products.
#8 Wayne Farms LLC
Headquartered in Oakwood, Georgia, Wayne Farms LLC is one of the largest vertically integrated poultry producers in the US. They supply chicken under various brand names, including Wayne Farms fresh and prepared chicken, Platinum Harvest premium fresh chicken, and Chef’s Craft gourmet chicken. Wayne Farms has a great commitment to food safety, animal welfare, and workplace health and safety.
#7 Foster Farms
Based in California, Foster Farms has been in operation since the 1930s. The company has weathered numerous market changes to become a leading provider of poultry on the West Coast. It is best known for its fresh, locally grown chicken and turkey products. Foster Farms has continually adapted to consumer needs, developing a range of antibiotic-free and certified organic products.
#6 Koch Foods
Koch Foods, not to be confused with Koch Industries, started as a one-room chicken de-feathering business and has grown into a billion-dollar corporation. They are a major supplier of fresh and frozen poultry in the US and focus on delivering quality food products to retail and foodservice establishments. Despite its size, Koch Foods maintains an approach that values consistent growth, cost management, and product quality.
#5 Mountaire Farms
Mountaire Farms is one of the largest privately-owned poultry companies in the US. With a strong focus on the production of broiler chickens, Mountaire Farms offers an extensive range of products, including fresh chicken, frozen chicken, and fully-cooked chicken ready for consumers. Their commitment to providing premium quality food is demonstrated through their healthy and efficient animal husbandry practices.
#4 Jennie-O Turkey Store
A subsidiary of Hormel Foods, Jennie-O Turkey Store has risen to become one of the largest and most beloved turkey manufacturers in the United States. They produce over 1,500 products, from whole turkeys to ready-to-eat meals. Jennie-O has established a reputation for innovation, constantly expanding its product lines to meet changing consumer tastes and dietary needs.
#3 Butterball LLC
Butterball is synonymous with Thanksgiving turkey and is the largest producer of turkey products in the US. They not only rule the roast during the holiday season but also provide a comprehensive range of turkey options year-round, including ground turkey, sausage, and deli meats. Sustainability and animal welfare are important considerations for Butterball, and they run various programs to ensure the company meets high ethical and environmental standards.
#2 Tyson Foods
Tyson Foods is not only one of the largest poultry companies in the US but also a globally recognized brand. They offer a wide range of chicken, turkey, and egg products to 130 countries. Tyson is well-known for its innovation, not only in product development but also in sustainability initiatives. The company’s commitment to animal well-being and environmental stewardship sets it apart in the industry.
#1 Pilgrim’s Pride
At the pinnacle of our list stands Pilgrim’s Pride, the second-largest chicken producer in the world, serving nearly 100 countries. It’s a name that brings to mind affordability, reliability, and quality. Pilgrim’s Pride’s vast product portfolio includes fresh chicken, prepared chicken, and exports. A heavy emphasis on operational excellence and customer satisfaction keeps this juggernaut at the top of the poultry pyramid. Pilgrim’s Pride’s dedication to the industry standard in sustainability practices and animal welfare also holds it in good stead among consumers.
The poultry industry in the United States is a dynamic and evolving sector, with these companies leading from the front. They have mastered the delicate balance between scalable production and quality, ensuring Americans have access to some of the best poultry products in the world. Each company has carved out a niche for itself, whether through ethical farming practices, sustainable operations, customer satisfaction, or innovative product offerings, they are an integral part of the country’s agricultural fabric. While these are the top feathers in the flock, the industry is teeming with competition and the potential for more companies to rise through the ranks in the coming years.