Top 10 Largest Turkey Meat Producers in the USA

Explore the top 10 turkey producers in the USA in our comprehensive report. Discover key insights into the largest players like Butterball and Jennie-O, industry trends, sustainability practices, and market challenges. Ideal for industry professionals and those interested in the U.S. poultry market.

Unveiling the Top 10 Turkey Producers in the USA – Industry Giants, Trends, and Challenges

1. Butterball, LLC
   • Headquarters: Garner, North Carolina
   • Market Position: Largest turkey producer in the U.S.
   • Production Capacity: Known for a wide range of turkey products.
   • Key Features: Recognizable brand, extensive distribution network.
2. Jennie-O Turkey Store, Inc. (a subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corporation)
   • Headquarters: Willmar, Minnesota
   • Market Position: A major player in the turkey production market.
   • Production Capacity: Offers a variety of turkey products.
   • Key Features: Focuses on health-conscious and convenient turkey options.
3. Cargill Meat Solutions
   • Headquarters: Wichita, Kansas
   • Market Position: A significant producer with a global presence.
   • Production Capacity: Supplies both fresh and frozen turkey products.
   • Key Features: Part of the larger Cargill, Inc., one of the largest privately-held corporations in the U.S.
4. Farbest Foods Inc.
   • Headquarters: Huntingburg, Indiana
   • Market Position: Known for high-quality turkey products.
   • Production Capacity: Operates one of the largest turkey processing facilities.
   • Key Features: Focus on sustainable and humane practices.
5. Foster Farms
   • Headquarters: Livingston, California
   • Market Position: A key player in the Western U.S.
   • Production Capacity: Offers a wide range of poultry products, including turkey.
   • Key Features: Known for quality and food safety.
6. Perdue Farms
   • Headquarters: Salisbury, Maryland
   • Market Position: A well-known brand in the poultry industry.
   • Production Capacity: Produces a variety of turkey products.
   • Key Features: Commitment to animal welfare and sustainable practices.
7. Koch Foods
   • Headquarters: Park Ridge, Illinois
   • Market Position: A leading producer, not just in turkey.
   • Production Capacity: Focuses on both fresh and frozen poultry.
   • Key Features: Large-scale operations with a broad market reach.
8. Plainville Farms
   • Headquarters: New Oxford, Pennsylvania
   • Market Position: Known for organic and antibiotic-free turkey.
   • Production Capacity: Specializes in higher-end turkey products.
   • Key Features: Focus on sustainability and animal welfare.
9. Cooper Farms
   • Headquarters: Oakwood, Ohio
   • Market Position: A significant regional player.
   • Production Capacity: Offers a range of turkey products.
   • Key Features: Family-owned with a focus on community and sustainability.
10. Norbest, LLC

• Headquarters: Moroni, Utah
• Market Position: Known for mountain-grown turkeys.
• Production Capacity: Specializes in whole bird products.
• Key Features: Emphasis on quality and tradition.

Key Trends in the Industry

• Sustainability: Many producers are increasingly focusing on sustainable farming practices.
• Animal Welfare: There is a growing consumer demand for humanely raised turkey.
• Product Diversity: Companies are expanding their product lines to include organic, antibiotic-free, and convenience-oriented options.

Challenges

• Market Volatility: Feed prices and international trade issues can impact profitability.
• Regulations: Changing regulations regarding animal welfare and environmental impacts can affect production methods.

Conclusion

The U.S. turkey production industry is led by a mix of large corporations and family-owned businesses, each bringing unique strengths and focusing on quality, sustainability, and market responsiveness. As consumer preferences evolve, these companies are adapting to meet the demand for healthier, more sustainable food choices.

Related: Top 10 Poultry Producers in USA

Other Sources: Wattagnet