Food & Drink

The 10 Largest Poultry Companies In The United States

Largest Poultry Companies Research Summary

The largest poultry company in the U.S. is Cargill Meat Solutions, with $165 billion in sales and a market share of 22%.
The U.S. poultry industry has a market size of $57.8 billion in 2026.
Americans consume over 8 billion chickens annually.
The global poultry industry is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% through 2030.

Have you ever considered the origins of your chicken or Thanksgiving turkey? If you reside in the United States, it’s likely that your poultry products are sourced from one of the top poultry producers in the country.

Whether you’re purchasing prepared chicken, like frozen nuggets, or fresh turkey, most poultry in the U.S. is supplied by a handful of major companies.

In this article, we will explore the largest poultry companies in the U.S. As of 2026, the U.S. produces approximately 23 million tons of poultry annually. Let’s delve into the top ten poultry companies in America and examine some insights into global poultry production.

10 Largest Poultry Companies in the United States

Cargill Meat Solutions

Wichita, KS
2022 sales: $165 billion

Cargill is a significant player in the meat industry, known for its beef, turkey, and extensive food distribution services. The company raises and processes poultry for both consumers and food companies, offering a variety of food service solutions.

From its humble beginnings as a packing company in 1936, Cargill has grown into one of the leading poultry companies in the U.S.

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Sysco Corp

Houston, TX
2022 sales: $68.636 billion

Sysco is a major food service distributor catering to various sectors, including restaurants, healthcare, schools, and hotels. They offer a broad range of poultry products, including chicken and turkey, as well as specialty meats and cuts, serving both wholesale and direct food service markets.

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Tyson Foods

Springdale, AR
2022 sales: $53.282 billion

As the largest poultry producer in the U.S. and globally, Tyson Foods is renowned for its chicken products, including Buffalo wings, chicken nuggets, and tenders, while also producing beef and pork. They employ over 140,000 staff across various states, including Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas.

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Pilgrim’s

Greeley, CO
2022 sales: $17.5 billion

Pilgrim’s specializes exclusively in poultry production, with product lines such as Just BARE Chicken and Gold’n Plump. They supply products to consumers and major clients like Costco and KFC and employ over 35,000 individuals across their operations.

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Hormel

Austin, MN
2022 sales: $12.459 billion

Hormel, known for its consumer-facing products, offers a wide variety of items in grocery stores, including brands such as Applegate and Jennie-O. Their broad product range solidifies their position as a significant poultry producer.

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Perdue Farms

Salisbury, MD
2022 sales: $8.9 billion

Perdue is recognized for its chicken, turkey, and pork products, offering both raw and ready-made options. Founded in 1920, the company still retains family involvement in its management and employs around 21,000 people across multiple states.

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OSI Group

Aurora, IL
2022 sales: $7.9 billion

OSI is an international corporation with operations in 35 countries. They offer a wide range of meat products, including poultry. OSI is recognized for its commitment to health and safety management, distinguishing it from other firms in the industry.

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Koch Foods

Park Ridge, IL
2022 sales: $4.7 billion

Beginning as a small chicken processor in 1973, Koch Foods has expanded significantly, dealing with both raw and pre-made poultry products. They serve large restaurant clients, employing approximately 14,000 people across several states.

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Mountaire Farms

Millsboro, DE
2022 sales: $2.4 billion

Founded in 1914, Mountaire Farms distributes both retail and wholesale poultry products across the U.S. They cater to grocery stores and food service operations, offering a diverse range of poultry items.

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Wayne Farms

Oakwood, GA
2022 sales: $2.2 billion

Established in 1965, Wayne Farms manages all aspects of poultry production, including hatcheries and processing facilities. They supply products to retailers and food service operators, employing around 10,000 individuals across multiple states.

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Poultry Industry FAQ

Which country produces the most poultry?

The United States continues to be the largest poultry producer, with 21 million tons in 2022. China, once the largest producer, has seen a significant decline in its poultry production. The top three producers are:
- United States
  
  Poultry produced in 2022: 21 million tons
- China
  
  Poultry produced in 2022: 14.3 million tons
- Brazil
  
  Poultry produced in 2022: 14.7 million tons
Which country exports the most poultry?

Brazil leads in poultry exports in 2023, with 4.75 million metric tons, while the U.S. ranks second. The largest poultry exporters include:
- Brazil
  
  Poultry exported in 2023: 4.75 million tons
- United States
  
  Poultry exported in 2023: 3.35 million tons
- European Union
  
  Poultry exported in 2023: 1.69 million tons
- Thailand
  
  Poultry exported in 2023: 1.03 million tons
- Turkey
  
  Poultry exported in 2023: 600 thousand tons

Understanding the dynamics of the poultry industry is essential for consumers and professionals alike. The leading companies not only shape the market but also influence food trends and sustainability practices. As we move further into 2026, staying informed about these key players will be crucial for anyone involved in the food supply chain, whether you’re a consumer, employee, or industry stakeholder.

Food & Drink

Author

Amanda Covaleski

Amanda is a writer with experience in various industries, including travel, real estate, and career advice. After taking on internships and entry-level jobs, she is familiar with the job search process and landing that crucial first job. Included in her experience is work at an employer/intern matching startup where she marketed an intern database to employers and supported college interns looking for work experience.

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