​Food Contract Manufacturers in the US: 2026 Shortlist

The most expensive flight I ever booked wasn’t a vacation to the Alps. It was a last-minute red-eye to a contract manufacturing facility in Ohio that had assured me—in writing, repeatedly—that they could hit our tray sealing specs at scale. I arrived to find a line that wasn't just struggling; it was effectively held together with duct tape and optimism.

In food operations, the gap between a glossy capabilities deck and the reality of the production floor is where margins (and careers) go to die. We live in a landscape where capacity is tight, labor is tighter, and sales teams will promise physics-defying throughput just to get you to sign the LOI.

You don’t need a phonebook of every facility with a business license. You need to know who can actually execute in 2026. I’ve filtered the noise to bring you the partners who treat your SOPs as law, not suggestions. Here is the shortlist.

Major US Food Contract Manufacturers Directory

Early in my career as an Operations Director, I treated partner sourcing like a treasure hunt. I convinced myself that if I just dug deep enough, I’d find a "unicorn" partner who offered the massive scale of a multinational and the flexibility of a startup. That was a mistake. I eventually learned that sourcing isn't a treasure hunt; it is a trade-off. In practice, you usually face two choices: access massive scale with strict Minimum Order Quantities (MOQs), or prioritize flexibility and easier QA (Quality Assurance) access with regional players. This section serves as a vetting longlist of food contract manufacturers. It is not an endorsement. I don’t define "major" by who has the flashiest website or the most Instagram followers. I define it by capacity and footprint—filtering for active facilities that can actually handle volume. This isn't just a generic manufacturer directory; it’s a breakdown of the partners that keep the American food supply chain moving.

National Scale Contract Manufacturing Partners

When you approach the top food companies in the us for contract work, you aren't just buying line time; you are buying into a rigorous, often inflexible infrastructure. These partners are the backbone of the industry, designed for established brands moving millions of units annually. I learned the hard way that these giants do not "work with you" on spec. Years ago, I approached a national bar manufacturer with a pilot concept, assuming my "projected volume" would win them over. I was laughed out of the room. I realized then that "National" implies stricter credit terms and MOQs that often start in the hundreds of thousands. Conversely, if you are already moving volume, these are the few food contract manufacturers capable of stabilizing your supply chain without blinking. Below is a company list of heavy hitters that dominate the domestic landscape:

Company NameHQ StatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications & FocusHearthside Food SolutionsILBars, Snacks, Cookies, CrackersSQF Level 3 (the "PhD" of food safety audits), Gluten-Free, massive scale bar production.TreeHouse FoodsILPrivate Label, Beverages, DressingsBroad spectrum private label; huge focus on retail store brands and snacking categories.Kerry GroupWI (US HQ)Ingredients, Flavors, Functional FoodsHeavy R&D focus; integrated ingredient solutions for functional brands.Schreiber FoodsWIDairy, Yogurt, Cream CheesePrivate label dairy giant; heavily automated processing lines.Simmons FoodsARPoultry, Pet FoodVertical integration in poultry; specialized protein processing.

Engaging these giants requires your house to be in perfect order. They execute what you specify—down to the exact gram—across their network of us food manufacturers.

Regional and Mid-Market Players

While the national giants offer volume, the regional tier offers agility. In my experience, the "Mid-Market" is the sweet spot for growing brands. These are the us food manufacturers that might actually return your phone call if your opening order is under 50,000 units. The primary advantage here is what I call the "Proximity Factor." I once had a production run at a facility four hours away where the vertical seal on our pouches started popping open. Because I could drive there instead of waiting for a flight, I was on the production floor with the plant manager by noon. We adjusted the dwell time on the jaws and saved the run. If I had been working with a national partner across the country, that entire batch likely would have been scrapped before I even landed. Easier access for QA visits equates to faster problem solving and less dead inventory. Mid-market players often possess lower overhead structures, allowing for better unit economics on medium runs. They are the engine of this database of manufacturers, often willing to negotiate pilot runs that a Hearthside or TreeHouse would reject outright.

• Agility: Faster changeovers allow for more SKUs (Stock Keeping Units, or distinct flavor varieties) on the same line.
• Access: You are more likely to speak with the owner or plant manager directly, rather than a junior account rep.
• Transparency: There are fewer corporate layers between your R&D team and the production floor.

If you are building your own internal manufacturer directory, I recommend starting by mapping players within a 300-mile radius of your distribution hub. The logistics savings and the ability to put eyes on the line often outweigh the pennies you might save per unit by going national too early. As you build your list of food contract manufacturers, remember that the best partner is the one that fits your current stage, not just your future ambition.

WEST

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesNellson LLCAnaheim, CAOntario, CA (bars); Anaheim, CA (powders); Salt Lake City, UT (powders)Nutritional bars (layered, extruded, enrobed), functional powders, bites; flow-wrap, pouches, canistersHACCP, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, Halal, OrganicNorth America's largest dedicated nutrition bar & powder co-manufacturer. 300k-sq-ft Ontario facility with segregated allergen lines. $70M+ invested in modern plant. Best for brands needing scaled bar/powder production.nellsonllc.com · Food Manufacturing profile · comanufacturers.comNational Frozen FoodsSeattle, WAPasco, WA; Moses Lake, WA; Albany, OR; Chehalis, WAPrivate-label frozen vegetables, fruits, blends; IQF processingNot stated (GFSI expected per retail partners)Founded 1912. One of the Pacific Northwest's largest frozen produce processors. Grows, packs, and ships year-round. Ideal for retailers and brands needing private-label frozen veg.nationalfrozenfoods.com · ZoomInfo overview · cbinsights.comYouBarMonterey Park, CASingle facility, Los Angeles metro areaProtein bars, bites, balls, nut-butter-filled bars, snacks; full-service R&D through packagingSQF Level 2, Kosher, Organic, Non-GMO Project VerifiedSpecialist bar co-manufacturer known for working with emerging and mid-size brands (Whole Foods, Costco, Target clients). Offers low-MOQ pilot runs. Strong for DTC/natural channel bar brands.youbar.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Snacks · kokoquest.comCo-Packer LASanta Fe Springs, CASingle facility, Los Angeles areaFrozen food processing, liquid filling, dry blending, retort processing, HPPSQF, USDA OrganicVersatile Southern California facility. Handles frozen, ambient, and HPP products in one location. Good fit for emerging brands needing multi-format co-packing near West Coast ports.kokoquest.com listing · calpackfoods.com · UC Food Safety co-packer listWest Coast CoPackerSalem, ORSingle facility, Salem, ORHot fill and cold fill beverages, sauces, condiments, jams; glass & plastic bottles, sachets, pouchesFDA registered, Certified Organic, KosherSpecialty food & beverage manufacturer for small-to-mid brands. In-house formulation and R&D. Good for natural/organic products needing West Coast production.westcoastcopacker.com · UC Food Safety · pickyourown.org/OregonOrca BeverageMukilteo, WASingle facility, Mukilteo, WABeverage co-packing: bottling, canning, labeling; specialty and craft sodasNot statedEstablished Pacific Northwest beverage co-packer with craft/specialty focus. Known for legacy soda brands and flexible short-to-mid runs for emerging beverage brands.kokoquest.com · orcabeverage.com · partnerslate.comBumbleBarSpokane Valley, WASingle facility, Spokane Valley, WAOrganic bars, cookies, snacks; co-packing for gluten-free, vegan, Non-GMO products; variety packsSQF Level 2, Organic, Kosher20+ years in gluten-free and organic bar manufacturing. Offers both large-scale ongoing orders and flexible smaller batches. Good partner for natural/organic bar brands needing West Coast capacity.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · bumblebar.com · UC Food SafetyInnovation BakersFullerton, CASingle facility, Fullerton, CAFresh bakery: Hispanic pastries, donuts, cakes, breads, cookies, brownies; flexible manufacturingSQF CertifiedSouthern California bakery co-packer with flexible lines for diverse baked goods. Strong in Hispanic and specialty bakery categories. Mid-market scale with emphasis on B2B partners.kokoquest.com · innovationbakers.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Bakery

MIDWEST

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesRoskam FoodsGrand Rapids, MI8 facilities in U.S. & Canada; Grand Rapids, MI (multiple); San Dimas, CA (Organic Milling); Toronto, ONFrozen meals, breakfast (waffles, pancakes), snacks, pretzels, confectionery, dry mixes, cereal, granola; 50+ production linesSQF Level 2 & 3, FSMA compliant, GMPFounded 1923. One of North America's largest diversified co-manufacturers: 2M+ sq ft of manufacturing. Handles allergens (peanut, tree nut) and gluten-free/Non-GMO in controlled environments. Near-national scale but partner-oriented culture.roskamfoods.com · roskamfoods.com/capabilities · comanufacturers.comHarvest Food GroupNaperville, IL184,000-sq-ft SQF facility (Warrenville, IL area); second facility opening Spring 2026IQF fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, herbs; frozen entrees, side dishes, meal kits, blends; cups, bowls, bagsSQF CertifiedFamily-founded frozen specialist (est. 1999). 1,000+ unique formulations developed in-house. Serves retail, private label, industrial, and foodservice. New high-care facility planned for 2026.harvestfoodgroup.com · harvestfoodgroup.com/what-we-do · cbinsights.comPacMooreHammond, INHammond, IN; Mooresville, IN; Gridley, IL (extrusion innovation lab)Dry blending, spray drying, extrusion, liquid blending, consumer packaging, re-packing; powders, inclusions, snacks, cerealsBRCGS AA+ (both IN facilities), Kosher, Organic, Gluten-Free, Halal, Grade A PMOLeading dry-ingredient contract manufacturer. Pilot equipment for product development. Toll or turnkey. Only Grade A dry dairy handler in Indiana. Ideal for powder, blend, and extruded-inclusion projects.pacmoore.com · LinkedIn · pacmoore.com/contract-manufacturingRequest FoodsHolland, MI903,000-sq-ft facility, Holland, MIFrozen entrees, side dishes, sauces; 800+ recipes including lasagna, ethnic dishes; co-packing, custom packagingGFSI Certified, USDA inspectedLarge single-site frozen-meal co-manufacturer with deep recipe library. High-speed lines and custom packaging. Revenue $50–$100M range. Strong for frozen meal brands needing Midwest production.comanufacturers.com/Michigan · requestfoods.com · kokoquest.comStone Gate FoodsPlymouth, MN40,000-sq-ft facility, near Minneapolis, MNHigh-labor hand-assembled products, automated lines, packaging & bottling, refrigerated & frozen storage; full product developmentSQF Level 2, USDA inspected, HACCPManagement-owned mid-market co-packer 20 min from Minneapolis. On-site test kitchen. Excels at complex, high-labor products that larger plants won't handle. Versatile for both small and large batches.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · stonegatefoods.com · specialtyfoodresource.comSnackCraftGrand Rapids, MIManufacturing facility, Grand Rapids, MIBaked crackers, baked and fried salty snacks; uses non-GMO corn, lentils, quinoa and other wholesome ingredientsNot statedDedicated salty snack manufacturer using on-trend, better-for-you ingredients. Co-manufacturing and private label. Good partner for brands in the natural/plant-based snack space.kokoquest.com · snackcraft.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comcreative werksElk Grove Village, ILMultiple facilities, Chicago metro areaCo-packing: rigid containers, flexible packaging, seasonal/promotional packs, variety packs, club packs; 50+ packaging linesNot stated (food-safe facilities)One of the largest independent co-packers in the US. 50+ lines, automated seasonal expertise, full turnkey from design to execution. Partners with top-tier national food brands for packaging.creative-werks.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Snacks · comanufacturers.comSt. Paul Beverage SolutionsSaint Paul, MNSingle facility, Saint Paul, MNFluid milk, plant-based beverages, shakes, creamers; HTST, ESL, UHT aseptic processingSQF Level 3, Kosher, OrganicSpecialized dairy and plant-based beverage co-packer with range of thermal processes (HTST through UHT aseptic). SQF Level 3 is the highest tier. Strong for brands in the emerging plant-milk and protein shake space.kokoquest.com · stpaulbeverage.com · partnerslate.com

SOUTH

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesThe Food CraftorySan Antonio, TXSingle facility, San Antonio, TXReady-to-eat snacks, sandwiches, salads, wraps, meals; flexible small and large batchingUSDA, FDA, SQF CertifiedSan Antonio-based co-packer handling RTE products with lower minimums than most. Recipe replication, material sourcing, and distribution. Good fit for emerging prepared-food brands.kokoquest.com · thefoodcraftory.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comRicos ProductsSan Antonio, TX100,000-sq-ft facility, San Antonio, TXNacho chips, tortilla chips, ready-to-eat popcorn; custom seasoning blends; private labelSQF Food Safety & Quality Ed. 8.0Established Texas snack manufacturer with dedicated private-label contract manufacturing. 100k-sq-ft modern facility. Strong in tortilla and nacho chip categories.kokoquest.com · ricos.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comAmeripack FoodsHughes Springs, TXSingle facility, Hughes Springs, TXFrozen and fresh production; form-fill-seal, vacuum packaging, MAP; custom flavor profilesUSDA, FDA CertifiedEast Texas co-packer specializing in private label and custom brand food products. Culinary team develops market-specific flavors. Handles both frozen and fresh.kokoquest.com · ameripackfoods.com · specialtyfoodresource.comRon's FoodsHouston, TXSingle facility, Houston, TXDeli salads, dips, spreads, desserts, frozen entrees; authentic recipe replicationSQF Food Safety CertifiedHouston-based co-packer and private labeler with strength in refrigerated deli products and frozen entrees. Good regional partner for brands in the deli/prepared foods aisle.kokoquest.com · ronsfoods.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comValley International Cold StorageHarlingen, TXHarlingen, TX (cold storage + co-packing)Co-packing, re-packing, cold storage; meal kit packaging, IQF sauces; compostable trays, biodegradable bagsNot statedSouth Texas co-packing and cold storage specialist with sustainability focus (compostable trays, biodegradable packaging). Good for frozen meal-kit and IQF sauce brands.kokoquest.com · vics.com · specialtyfoodresource.comG&S FoodsHanover, PASingle facility, Hanover, PA (border of South/Mid-Atlantic)Snack food manufacturing: pretzels, popcorn, snack mixes; product development through packagingNot statedFull-service snack manufacturer assisting from prototyping through production and packaging. Deep expertise in pretzels and popcorn. Strong for brands launching into the salty snack category.kokoquest.com · gsfoods.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/SnacksTaylor Gleason EnterprisesCarrollton, TXSingle facility, Carrollton, TXStick packs, pouches, sachets; dry blending; supplements, food products, personal careSQF Level 2, FDA RegisteredStick-pack and pouch specialist since 2012. Flexible run sizes and quick turnaround. Dedicated facility for dry packaging. Great for supplement and functional food brands needing single-serve formats.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · taylorgleason.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/SnacksTampa Bay Co-PackTampa, FLSingle facility, Tampa Bay area, FLBeverage co-packing: turnkey concept-to-shelf, or toll co-packing with customer-supplied materialsNot statedFlorida-based beverage co-packer offering both toll and turnkey models. Serves the growing Southeast functional/craft beverage market. Good for brands needing Southeast production.claytowne.com · tampabaycopack.com · mrcheckout.net

NORTHEAST

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesLiDestri FoodsFairport, NYFairport & Greece, NY; Fresno, CAPasta sauces, salsas, dips, spreads, soups, oils; hot fill, cold fill, HPP; jars, PET, tubsGFSI, USDA Organic, KosherLeading US pasta sauce manufacturer (80M+ cases/year). 50-year track record with blue-chip partners (Newman's Own, Wegmans, Aldi). Innovation Center for product co-development. Near-national scale but privately held, family-run.lidestrifoodanddrink.com · comanufacturers.com · KPMG transactionKettle CuisineLynn, MALynn, MA; Portland, OR; Everett, WA; Chelsea, MARefrigerated and frozen soups, sauces, broths, proteins; small-batch artisan process; single-serve and bulkNot stated (clean label, all-natural focus)First coast-to-coast fresh soup supplier in the US (after acquiring Harry's Fresh Foods). Artisan, clean-label positioning. Serves restaurant chains, retail, and foodservice. Strong for brands in the premium soup/broth space.kettlecuisine.com · Food Manufacturing · kokoquest.comGourmet KitchenNew Jersey (exact city not stated)Single facility, New JerseyAppetizers, entrees, ready-to-eat; hors d'oeuvres, brunch items; full-service co-packing and co-developmentSQF Certified, USDA, FDA30+ years serving foodservice, military, education, retail, and travel sectors. Culinary-centric team with chef-led R&D. Good for brands needing complex prepared foods and appetizers.gourmetkitcheninc.com · specialtyfoodresource.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comThe Farm BridgeKingston, NY30,000-sq-ft facility, Kingston, NYShelf-stable and frozen products: sauces, pickles, IQF, roasting, hand-made products; institutional packagingNot statedHudson Valley facility with processing lines for sauces, pickles, IQF, and hand-crafted products. 8,000 sq ft of cold/frozen/dry storage. Good for Northeast specialty food brands.specialtyfoodresource.com · thefarmbridge.com · cals.cornell.eduMaryland PackagingElkridge, MDSingle facility, Elkridge, MDCoffee grinding, juice production, beverage co-packing; retail containers, pouches, food service bulk packsFDA CompliantFamily-run Mid-Atlantic co-packer handling beverage and food products. Focus on food safety and integrity. Good for brands needing East Coast proximity (near Baltimore/DC corridor).marylandpackaging.com · UC Food Safety · specialtyfoodresource.comSpecial Touch BakeryRochester, NYSingle facility, Rochester, NYBakery co-packing: extensive production and packaging equipment for commercial baked goodsSQF Level 2Dedicated bakery co-packer in upstate New York with SQF Level 2 certification. Fully equipped for diverse baked goods at commercial scale. Strong for Northeast bakery brands.kokoquest.com · specialtouchbakery.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/BakeryGreyston BakeryYonkers, NY23,000-sq-ft facility, Yonkers, NY (30 min from NYC)Brownies, cakes; commercial baking with social mission; co-packing for chocolate baked goodsNot statedSocial enterprise bakery (open hiring model) known as a Ben & Jerry's brownie supplier. 23k-sq-ft facility near NYC. Good for purpose-driven brands seeking a mission-aligned bakery partner.claytowne.com · greyston.org · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/BakeryUniversal PureLincoln, CT & Rancho Cucamonga, CALincoln, CT; Rancho Cucamonga, CAHPP tolling and co-packing; high-volume rotary filling; premium juices, cold brews, teas, functional beveragesNot stated (HPP-focused food safety)Bi-coastal HPP specialist with high-volume rotary filling. One of the few dedicated HPP co-packers in the US. Essential partner for brands in the cold-pressed juice, cold brew, and functional beverage space.kokoquest.com · universalpure.com · UC Food Safety

Manufacturers by Category and Capability

I once watched a founder try to run a high-moisture protein bar at a standard commercial bakery. It seemed like a logical fit—they baked cookies, and this was a bar. But the bakery’s ovens were tuned to dry out dough, not pasteurize a wet matrix. Three weeks later, $40,000 worth of inventory bloomed with mold in the warehouse.

The bakery wasn’t incompetent; it was just a mismatch. The first step in filtering food and beverage companies isn't price or location—it’s physics. You must align your product’s water activity and preservation needs with the manufacturer's specific line capabilities.

Dry Goods: Form Factors and Allergens

In the dry category, the "how" matters more than the "what." A private label manufacturer listing "cookies" on their website might only have rotary moulders—machines designed to stamp out hard, snap-style biscuits. These are useless if you are trying to scale a soft-baked, wire-cut product; the dough will simply stick to the die.

For bars, the distinction is even sharper. You are looking for specific form factors. A facility set up for slab-forming—gently rolling out dough and slitting it—cannot handle the high-pressure crush of cold extrusion. If you scale a functional snack, you also face a hidden cost: the segregation premium. This is the price of keeping allergens separate, often requiring dedicated lines or entire rooms.

Finding a private label manufacturer with dedicated allergen free manufacturing suites is no longer a luxury. Retailers don't view these as "nice-to-haves"; they view them as baseline requirements. If you treat these facility attributes as optional rather than engineering constraints, you will waste months sending samples to partners who physically cannot make your product types.

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesNellson LLCAnaheim, CAOntario, CA; Anaheim, CA; Salt Lake City, UTNutrition bars (layered, triple-layer, extruded, enrobed, bites, custom shapes), functional powders; flow-wrap, canisters, sachets, bagsHACCP, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Kosher, Halal, OrganicDominant bar & powder co-manufacturer with segregated allergen-controlled lines. $70M Ontario facility. 40+ food scientists on staff. Best for established bar/powder brands at scale.nellsonllc.com · comanufacturers.com · Food ManufacturingPacMooreHammond, INHammond, IN; Mooresville, IN; Gridley, ILDry blending, spray drying, extrusion, liquid blending, consumer packaging, re-packing; powders, inclusions, cereals, confectioneryBRCGS AA+ (both IN plants), Kosher, Organic, Gluten-Free, Halal, Grade A PMOPremier dry-ingredient specialist. Pilot extruder and spray dryer for product development. Toll or turnkey. Only Grade A dry dairy handler in Indiana.pacmoore.com · pacmoore.com/spray-drying · LinkedInYouBarMonterey Park, CASingle facility, Los Angeles metroProtein bars, bites, balls, nut-butter-filled bars, brownies; full-service R&D to packaging; FDA compliance and label creationSQF Level 2, Organic, Kosher, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan/Plant-BasedFull-service bar manufacturer with retail experience (Whole Foods, Costco, GNC, Target). Offers R&D, commercialization advice, and regulatory testing. Lower MOQs than national players.youbar.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com · kokoquest.comRoskam FoodsGrand Rapids, MI8 facilities across US & Canada; Grand Rapids, MI; San Dimas, CASnacks (pretzels, popcorn, crackers, snack mixes), cereal, granola, confectionery (molded/enrobed chocolate), dry mixes, frozen doughSQF Level 2 & 3, FSMA compliantMassive diversified co-manufacturer with deep snack and dry-goods expertise. 2M+ sq ft, 50+ lines. Handles peanuts, tree nuts, and allergen-controlled environments.roskamfoods.com/what-we-make · roskamfoods.com/capabilities · comanufacturers.comInbiteNot stated (US-based)Not statedCertified gluten-free snacks and baked goods: cookies, bars, granolas, muffins, biscotti, coffee cake, dinner rolls, buns; vegan, lactose-freeCertified Gluten-Free (GFCO expected)Dedicated allergen-free co-manufacturer. Specializes in certified GF baked goods across a wide product range. Strong for brands targeting the allergen-free aisle.kokoquest.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Bakery · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/CookiesNummies BakeryNot stated (US-based)Single dedicated facilityCookies, pasta, muffins/cupcakes, breads, pizza dough, ice cream inclusions; all produced in dedicated Top-8 allergen-free facilitySQF Certified, GFCO Certified Gluten-Free, OK Kosher PareveDedicated gluten-free, dairy-free, peanut-free, and soy-free facility. 100% private label / co-pack / contract manufacture — no competing branded products. Rare Top-8 free operation.specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Cookies · nummiesbakery.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/BakeryG&S FoodsHanover, PASingle facility, Hanover, PAPretzels, popcorn, snack mixes; full product development through manufacturing and packagingNot statedEnd-to-end snack manufacturer: takes concepts from development and prototyping through production to shelf. Deep pretzel and popcorn expertise.kokoquest.com · gsfoods.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/SnacksSnackCraftGrand Rapids, MIManufacturing facility, Grand Rapids, MIBaked crackers, baked and fried salty snacks; non-GMO corn, lentils, quinoa, on-trend wholesome ingredientsNot statedDedicated salty snack facility with plant-based / better-for-you positioning. Good for brands in the natural crackers and vegetable-based chips segment.kokoquest.com · snackcraft.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/SnacksKim & Jake'sLongmont, COSingle facility, Longmont, COCo-packing, white labeling, product development for certified gluten-free baked goods; simple, wholesome ingredientsCertified Gluten-FreeColorado-based dedicated gluten-free bakery. Offers co-packing, white label, and product development. Good for natural-channel GF bakery brands needing a smaller, hands-on partner.kokoquest.com · kimandjakes.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/BakeryFirebird Artisan MillsNot stated (US-based)Single dedicated facility40+ gluten-free flours and blends; milling, mixing, packaging in same GF facilityBRCGS AA (4 consecutive years), ICS Gluten-Free, USDA Organic, KosherDedicated 100% gluten-free and allergen-free flour mill. AA-rated by BRC four years running. One-stop-shop for GF flour sourcing and custom blend co-manufacturing.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · firebirdartisanmills.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/SnacksBumbleBarSpokane Valley, WASingle facility, Spokane Valley, WAOrganic bars, cookies, snacks; vegan, Non-GMO, variety packs; flexible batch sizesSQF Level 2, Organic, Kosher20+ years in organic/GF bars. Combines corporate-scale efficiency with small-company flexibility. Co-packs for brands needing organic certification on bars and snacks.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · bumblebar.com · comanufacturers.comTaylor Gleason EnterprisesCarrollton, TXSingle dedicated facility, Carrollton, TXStick packs, pouches, sachets; dry blending; dedicated gluten-free and Top-8 allergen-free facility; baking mixes, rice blends, pasta, spice rubs, coatingsSQF Certified, USDA Organic, Gluten-Free (GFCO), Kosher, Whole Grain Stamp availableAllergen-free dry blending and packaging specialist. Bag-in-box, flexible pouches, single-serve cups, club packs, tins, canisters. Among the lowest minimums and fastest turnarounds in the industry.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · taylorgleason.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Snacks

Beverages: The Kill Step

In beverage, the preservation method—the "kill step"—is the ultimate gatekeeper. Many food and beverage companies default to hot-fill because it is cheaper, but you cannot put a fresh, cold-pressed juice into a hot-fill line without destroying the flavor profile that makes your brand unique.

Modern consumer palates demand speciality product capabilities, which often leads brands to high pressure processing (HPP) or aseptic lines. HPP uses cold water pressure to kill pathogens without heat, preserving nutrients, but it requires specific flexible packaging that can withstand the crush. Aseptic processing, on the other hand, sterilizes the liquid and package separately, allowing for shelf stability without refrigeration. Before you vet a partner's capacity, ask for their preservation flowchart. If they can’t support your required shelf-life method, hang up.

CategoryStandard MethodThe Physics ConstraintThe Mismatch RiskDry GoodsRotary MouldingCannot process sticky/soft doughs.Product sticks to dies; loss of texture.BeverageHot FillRequires heating liquid to ~194°F.Flavor destruction; "cooked" taste.FrozenBlast FreezingSlow center-freezing for dense items.Large ice crystals ruin texture.

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary Capabilities (Process Tags)Certifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesLiDestri FoodsFairport, NYFairport & Greece, NY; Fresno, CAHot fill, cold fill, HPP; juices, energy drinks, milk products; PET, glass jars, tubsGFSI, USDA Organic, KosherMajor food manufacturer that also runs advanced beverage lines (recently divested aseptic subsidiary). HPP capabilities for clean-label beverages. 80M+ cases/year across food & beverage.lidestrifoodanddrink.com · comanufacturers.com · KPMG transactionBig Brands LLCNot stated (Southeast / Southwest / Midwest)Facilities in Southeast, Southwest, and Midwest USHot fill, cold fill, tunnel pasteurization, retort, aseptic (Tetra Pak); canning (8–24 oz); PET, glass, aluminum cans, shot bottles, stick packsNot statedFamily-owned since 1874. Among the leading carbonated small-batch beverage co-packers. Multiple regional facilities with high-speed lines and broad process capabilities. Serves both alcoholic and non-alcoholic.beveragecopackers.com · bigbrandsllc.com · kokoquest.comUniversal PureLincoln, CTLincoln, CT; Rancho Cucamonga, CAHPP, cold fill; high-volume rotary filling; premium juices, cold brews, teas, functional beveragesNot stated (HPP-focused food safety)Bi-coastal HPP specialist. Among the few dedicated HPP co-packers at commercial scale. Essential for cold-pressed juice, cold brew, and fresh functional beverage brands needing shelf-life extension without heat.universalpure.com · kokoquest.com · UC Food SafetySt. Paul Beverage SolutionsSaint Paul, MNSingle facility, Saint Paul, MNHTST, ESL, UHT aseptic; fluid milk, plant-based beverages, shakes, creamers; various container formatsSQF Level 3, Kosher, OrganicDedicated dairy & plant-based beverage co-packer. Offers the full thermal spectrum from HTST through UHT aseptic. SQF Level 3 (highest tier). Key partner for protein shake and plant-milk brands.kokoquest.com · stpaulbeverage.com · mrcheckout.netCalifornia Aseptic BeveragesFontana, CASingle facility, Fontana, CAAseptic (high-acid focus); beverage co-packing for juices, teas, watersNot statedSouthern California aseptic specialist focused on high-acid beverages. Useful for brands needing shelf-stable juice and tea without refrigeration. Aseptic is relatively rare among mid-market co-packers.kokoquest.com · partnerslate.com · claytowne.comNewport Bottling & CanningAnaheim, CASingle facility, Anaheim, CACold fill, hot fill, canning, bottling; beverage formulation, flavor chemistry, R&D, consulting; RO water filtrationNot statedFull-service beverage co-packer with in-house formulation and flavor chemistry lab. Offers consulting and R&D alongside production. Good for brands still developing their formula.kokoquest.com · newportbottling.com · partnerslate.comBlue Marble ProductionsNot stated (US-based)425,000-sq-ft facilityTunnel pasteurization, cold fill, canning; alcoholic and non-alcoholic; bulk spirit storage, water plant, in-house lab testing; dairy and allergen-free facilityNot stated (dairy- and allergen-free facility)Massive 425k-sq-ft facility operating 24/7. One of the most reliable high-volume beverage co-packers. Dairy- and allergen-free facility is a differentiator for clean-label brands. Private labeling available.partnerslate.com · bluemarbleproductions.com · mrcheckout.netWest Coast CoPackerSalem, ORSingle facility, Salem, ORHot fill, cold fill; beverages, sauces, condiments, jams; glass & plastic bottles, sachets, pouchesFDA Registered, Certified Organic, KosherSpecialty beverage/food manufacturer for organic and natural brands. In-house formulation. Good for small-to-mid brands needing Pacific Northwest production.westcoastcopacker.com · pickyourown.org/Oregon · UC Food SafetyOrca BeverageMukilteo, WASingle facility, Mukilteo, WABottling, canning, labeling; craft and specialty sodas; various container formatsNot statedPacific Northwest beverage co-packer known for craft soda production. Flexible runs for emerging and craft beverage brands.kokoquest.com · orcabeverage.com · partnerslate.comMidwest Custom BottlingPewaukee, WISingle facility, Pewaukee, WICold fill, bottling, blending; custom recipe design, brewing, bottling, distribution; liquid and dry storage, blending tanksNot statedWisconsin-based beverage co-packer offering recipe development through distribution. On-site storage tanks and blending. Good for Midwest brands needing a vertically integrated beverage partner.kokoquest.com · midwestcustombottling.com · mrcheckout.netNiagara BottlingDiamond Bar, CAMultiple facilities nationwideAseptic, hot fill, real brew, water, sparkling; protein shakes, juices, teas; unique PET bottle formats, high-speed lines, on-site batchingNot statedLarge-scale beverage co-packer with multi-process capability (aseptic through sparkling). High-speed lines and on-site batching for consistency. Serves diverse brand portfolio. Borders on national scale.kokoquest.com · niagarabottling.com · partnerslate.comTampa Bay Co-PackTampa, FLSingle facility, Tampa Bay area, FLToll co-packing and turnkey beverage development; concept-to-shelf serviceNot statedSoutheast-based co-packer. Offers both toll (you supply everything) and turnkey (they handle everything) models. Good for Florida/Southeast brands.claytowne.com · tampabaycopack.com · mrcheckout.net

Frozen: The Cold Chain Handoff

The frozen aisle is unforgiving of logistics failures. When vetting a frozen co packer, the primary question is how they freeze, not just what they cook. There is a massive operational gap between a facility that throws pallets into a blast freezer and one with Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) tunnels.

Blast freezing takes time. If your product is dense, the center might freeze too slowly, allowing large ice crystals to form that puncture cell walls and ruin the texture upon reheating. IQF freezes small pieces instantly, preserving integrity. A capable frozen co packer also understands the "cold chain handoff." They don't just produce; they have the loading docks and temp-controlled staging areas to ensure your product never breaks temp before it hits the truck.

If a private label manufacturer or co packer treats freezing as an afterthought rather than a technology, your product will inevitably degrade before it ever reaches the shelf. You need a partner who treats the cold chain as a critical ingredient.

Company NameHQ (City, State)Where They OperatePrimary CapabilitiesCertifications / Food SafetyBest-Fit NotesSourcesRoskam FoodsGrand Rapids, MI8 facilities, US & Canada (Grand Rapids, MI; San Dimas, CA; Toronto, ON)Frozen waffles, pancakes, meals, breakfast staples, dough; 50+ production lines across frozen, refrigerated, and shelf-stableSQF Level 2 & 3, FSMAOne of the largest diversified co-manufacturers. Acquired Marsan Foods (2023) for frozen meals. Broad capability from frozen breakfast to snacks to confectionery.roskamfoods.com/what-we-make · roskamfoods.com/about-us · comanufacturers.comHarvest Food GroupNaperville, IL184,000-sq-ft SQF facility, Warrenville, IL area; 2nd facility opening Spring 2026IQF fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, herbs; frozen entrees, side dishes, meal kits, blends; bags, cups, bowlsSQF CertifiedFamily-founded IQF specialist (est. 1999). 1,000+ unique formulations. In-house Innovation Center. Serves retail, private label, and industrial customers. New high-care production facility in 2026.harvestfoodgroup.com · harvestfoodgroup.com/what-we-do · cbinsights.comRequest FoodsHolland, MI903,000-sq-ft facility, Holland, MIFrozen entrees, side dishes, sauces; 800+ recipes (lasagna, ethnic dishes, etc.); custom packaging; high-speed linesGFSI Certified, USDA inspectedMassive single-site frozen meal operation in Michigan. 800+ recipe library. Built for volume. $50–$100M revenue range. Ideal for frozen meal brands needing Midwest capacity.requestfoods.com · comanufacturers.com/Michigan · kokoquest.comKettle CuisineLynn, MALynn, MA; Chelsea, MA; Portland, OR; Everett, WARefrigerated and frozen soups, sauces, broths, fully cooked proteins; artisan small-batch process; single-serve and bulkNot stated (clean label, all-natural focus)Coast-to-coast fresh/frozen soup producer (4 plants). Artisan, clean-label positioning. Acquired Harry's Fresh Foods (Portland). Strong for premium soup, broth, and protein brands.kettlecuisine.com · Food Manufacturing · kokoquest.comNational Frozen FoodsSeattle, WAPasco, WA; Moses Lake, WA; Albany, OR; Chehalis, WAIQF private-label frozen vegetables, fruits, blends; grows, packs, and distributes Pacific Northwest produceNot statedFounded 1912. Heritage frozen produce processor with farm-to-freezer model. Over a century of experience in IQF vegetables and fruits. Year-round availability.nationalfrozenfoods.com · ZoomInfo · kokoquest.comReady FoodsDenver, COSingle facility, Denver, COQuick-chilled fresh and frozen soups, sauces, cheese sauces, grains, beans; kettle and immersion cooking; pouches; glass-free facilityNot statedFamily-owned for 52+ years. Specializes in quick-chilled pouched foods. R&D chefs develop and scale recipes. Glass-free facility is a food-safety plus. Strong for soup and sauce brands.readyfoods.biz · cals.cornell.edu · specialtyfoodresource.comCo-Packer LASanta Fe Springs, CASingle facility, Los Angeles areaFrozen food processing, liquid filling, dry blending, retort processing, HPPSQF, USDA OrganicSouthern California multi-format facility. Combines frozen processing with HPP and retort — unusual versatility for a mid-market player. Good for brands needing both frozen and ambient lines.kokoquest.com · calpackfoods.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comFavazza Specialty FoodsMidwest (exact city not stated)Single USDA-certified facility, MidwestFrozen pizzas, appetizers (jalapeño poppers), signature appetizer lines; machine-made and handmade product capability; blast freezing, MAP, vacuum sealingUSDA CertifiedNiche co-manufacturer offering both machine-made and handmade frozen products. Blast freezing and MAP for shelf-life extension. Midwest location gives central shipping advantage.specialtyfoodcopackers.com/Frozen-Entrees · favazzafoods.com · specialtyfoodresource.comGourmet KitchenNew JerseySingle facility, New JerseyAppetizers, entrees, ready-to-eat; hors d'oeuvres, brunch items; co-development and turnkey executionSQF Certified, USDA, FDA30+ years in prepared foods for foodservice, military, education, retail, and travel. Culinary-centric team. Good for brands needing complex frozen appetizer and entrée development.gourmetkitcheninc.com · specialtyfoodresource.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comDay-Lee FoodsSanta Fe Springs, CAFrozen food processing plant, Southern CaliforniaAsian-inspired frozen entrees and appetizers; co-pack and contract packaging services; global ingredient sourcingSQF Level 2Southern California frozen specialist in Asian-inspired products. SQF Level 2 audited. Also sources ingredients and finished goods globally. Good for brands in the ethnic frozen aisle.kokoquest.com · dayleefoods.com · specialtyfoodcopackers.comThe Farm BridgeKingston, NY30,000-sq-ft facility, Kingston, NYFrozen soups, sauces, pickles, baked desserts; IQF, roasting, hand-made products; 8,000 sq ft cold/frozen/dry storageNot statedHudson Valley co-packer with IQF capability and diverse processing lines (sauces, pickles, roasting). Good for artisan/specialty frozen food brands in the Northeast.specialtyfoodresource.com · thefarmbridge.com · cals.cornell.eduStone Gate FoodsPlymouth, MN40,000-sq-ft facility, near Minneapolis, MNHigh-labor hand-assembled products, automated lines, state-of-the-art refrigeration and freezer storage; on-site test kitchenSQF Level 2, USDA inspected, HACCPManagement-owned Minnesota co-packer with strength in complex, hand-assembled frozen products. Test kitchen for product development. Accommodates small and large batches.specialtyfoodcopackers.com · stonegatefoods.com · specialtyfoodresource.comValley International Cold StorageHarlingen, TXHarlingen, TXCo-packing, re-packing, cold storage; meal kit packaging, IQF sauces; compostable trays, biodegradable bagsNot statedSouth Texas cold storage + co-packing combo. Sustainable packaging focus (compostable, biodegradable). IQF sauce capability. Good for frozen meal-kit and sustainable packaging brands.kokoquest.com · vics.com · specialtyfoodresource.com

Vetting Partners Beyond the Google Search

The Research and Outreach Phase

I once gathered a list of 50 potential co-packers, drafted a polite "Introduction" email, and blind-copied every single one of them. The result? Silence.

I learned the hard way that the best facilities are already at capacity. They delete generic inquiries because they signal a "tire kicker"—a founder who asks a million questions but never signs a contract. If you want a manufacturer to actually take your call, you need to stop asking for help and start building a case. The process of finding a food manufacturing company requires a forensic approach, not just a casual browse.

Start by using industry directories to search and filter manufacturers by category—don't waste a bakery's time with a beverage inquiry. But simply knowing how to search and filter manufacturers isn't enough; you must prove you are a serious lead in your very first email.

Never say, "I have a great idea for a cookie." Instead, present the "Three Pillars of Viability" to show you are a prepared manufacturing partner:

PillarWhat to Say (The Script)Why It Works1. Volume"We need 50,000 units/month starting Q3."Tells the plant manager you meet their Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ).2. Formulation"We have a commercial-ready formula scaled for 2,000lb batches."Proves you understand industrial processing, not just home cooking.3. Timeline"We are targeting a retailer launch in six months."Creates urgency and shows you have a go-to-market strategy.

If you only have a kitchen recipe, you aren't ready for a manufacturing partner. You need a university pilot plant—a facility designed to help you scale that recipe using industrial equipment—or a commercial kitchen first. Finding a food manufacturing company is impossible if you cannot speak their language of scale.

Conducting the Site Visit

Most founders treat the site visit like a museum tour. They put on a hairnet, nod at the shiny stainless steel mixers, and assume everything is fine because the floor is swept. This is a fatal error. You are there to conduct an audit, not a tour.

While you need to verify their technical capabilities—ensuring the line speeds and packaging equipment match the sales pitch—the real risks are usually hidden in the "human layer."

I always ask to see the break room and the employee bathrooms. It sounds trivial, but these spaces are the barometer for workforce culture. If the break room is filthy, the microwave is broken, and morale is visibly low, that apathy will eventually bleed into your production run. A disengaged worker is the single biggest threat to food safety.

Next, validate their capabilities and certifications against physical reality. Don't just look at the pest control certificate on the wall; look at the trap in the corner of the warehouse. Is the inspection card signed for this month, or has it been empty since 2022? True capabilities and certifications are maintained on the floor, not just in a binder.

Finally, when vetting contract manufacturers, test their safety reflexes. Do not ask, "Do you have a recall plan?" Everyone says yes. Ask this instead:

"Show me the documentation from your last mock recall. Did you achieve 100% trace-back within two hours?"

Two hours is the gold standard for traceability exercises. If they fumble for the logs or can't produce the data, walk away. finding a food manufacturing company is difficult, but partnering with an unsafe facility is a business-ending mistake.

The Economics of Co-Manufacturing

I walked into my first negotiation with a contract packer armed with a spreadsheet of flour, sugar, and labor costs. I thought I had calculated the unit economics down to the penny. The plant manager just looked at me, slid my paper back across the table, and said, "You’re calculating the wrong math." In the world of co manufacturing, you are not paying for ingredients. You are buying "line time." It took me years to truly internalize that a facility sells machine hours, not cookies or bottles. Whether that machine is filling pouches or sealing cartons, its value is tied to throughput. If a high-speed line creates $5,000 of retail value per hour, every minute of downtime—whether for cleaning, setup, or changeovers—is revenue incinerated. Understanding this shift from "product cost" to "opportunity cost" was the only way I started negotiating deals that actually stuck.

The Reality of MOQs and Orphan Hours

I used to think the minimum order quantity (MOQ) was just an arbitrary hurdle designed to weed out small players. Then I spent a week on a factory floor in the Midwest. The Site Director pointed to a line that had been down for four hours. "It takes four hours to sanitize that filler and two to calibrate it for your specific bottle size," he told me. "That’s six hours of zero revenue before we produce a single unit." If my run only lasted three hours, the factory lost money. It was simple physics. Most contract manufacturers operate on rigid 8-hour or 10-hour shifts. If my volume didn't fill a full shift, I was leaving them with "orphan hours"—awkward gaps of time they couldn't sell to anyone else. Once I understood that MOQs were about protecting the facility’s yield, I stopped fighting the number and started solving for the shift. Once you clear that volume hurdle, you face the service model decision. I’ve negotiated both sides of this table, and it always comes down to negotiating terms and moqs versus cash flow.

FeatureToll ManufacturingTurnkey ManufacturingWho Buys Materials?I source and ship everything.The manufacturer sources everything.Cash Flow ImpactHigh. I pay for inventory upfront.Lower. I pay when finished goods ship.ControlHigh. I control input quality/price.Medium. I rely on their vendors.Hidden MarkupNone. I see raw costs.Yes. Usually a % markup on materials.

Hidden Costs and Contract Red Lines

The base toll fee is rarely where margins go to die. In my experience scaling a cpg brand—that’s Consumer Packaged Goods, for those new to the acronym—the real killers are buried in the operational appendices. I nearly torpedoed a product launch in 2019 because I ignored the "extras." I had secured a great toll rate, but I hadn't read the fine print on changeovers. The Red Lines I Now Refuse to Cross:

• Changeover Fees: We were running three flavor variants in a single day. The contract allowed the manufacturer to charge a "wash down" fee for every flavor switch. Those fees ran into the thousands, completely erasing the profit from our smaller runs. Now, I model the run schedule before signing.
• Palletization and Storage: I once assumed shrink-wrapping was included. It wasn’t. Furthermore, I now demand clarity on how long finished goods can sit on the dock before "storage fees" kick in.
• CPI Caps: This is critical. Most contract manufacturers include a clause allowing them to raise prices annually based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI). I always fight to cap this—typically at 3% to 5% annually. If you don’t, a high-inflation year can spike your costs faster than you can raise prices at retail.
• IP Ownership: If the manufacturer helps tweak your formula to run better on their equipment, who owns that new version? I learned to ensure the contract explicitly states that any "process improvements" remain my intellectual property.

My manufacturer was my partner, sure. But they were also a business protecting a bottom line that didn’t include me. A vague contract is a future liability; specificity is the only leverage I have left.

Beyond the Capabilities Deck

That trip to Ohio taught me that a partnership isn't forged in the boardroom; it’s proven when the palletizer jams at 2 AM. The manufacturers listed above represent the tier of operators who understand that distinct difference. They are the ones who pick up the phone when the supply chain breaks, rather than hiding behind force majeure clauses.

Your job isn't just to find a facility that can make your product. It's to find a partner who cares as much about the integrity of the seal as you do. Close the capabilities deck, book the site visit, and don’t sign until you’ve seen the line run with your own eyes.