Food Processing Manufacturing Companies in Arkansas

Arkansas has approximately 2,800 manufacturing establishments and 160,000 manufacturing employees. Arkansas has a diverse manufacturing base including food processing, steel production, and plastics, with Nucor and Dassault Falcon anchoring key sectors.

Arkansas contributes to the national food processing manufacturing landscape. Food processing manufacturing transforms raw agricultural products into packaged food for consumers and food service operations. It is the largest manufacturing sector in the US by employment, with operations ranging from meat processing plants and bakeries to snack food factories and frozen food producers.

Meat & Poultry Processors: Companies operating slaughter, cut, and processed meat facilities, from large packers like Tyson to regional processors.

Bakery & Snack Producers: Manufacturers of bread, cookies, crackers, chips, and other baked and snack food products.

Dairy Processors: Companies producing milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, and other dairy products.

Beverage Manufacturers: Producers of soft drinks, juices, water, and other non-alcoholic beverages.

Frozen & Prepared Food Makers: Companies producing frozen meals, prepared foods, and ready-to-eat products for retail and food service.

Major industrial centers in Arkansas include Little Rock, Fort Smith, Springdale, and Jonesboro. These cities have concentrations of manufacturers across sectors including food processing manufacturing, steel manufacturing, and plastics manufacturing.