American Agriculture at a Glance
The United States is one of the world's largest agricultural producers, with farming contributing more than a trillion dollars to the national economy when combined with related industries. From the corn fields of Iowa to the citrus groves of Florida and the cattle ranches of Texas, American farming companies feed the nation and supply customers around the world. The companies highlighted below represent the strength and diversity of U.S. agriculture.
1. Cargill, Incorporated
Cargill, headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, is one of the largest privately held companies in the United States. With operations spanning grain, beef, poultry, animal nutrition, and food ingredients, Cargill plays a foundational role in American agriculture and global food systems.
2. Tyson Foods, Inc.
Tyson Foods, based in Springdale, Arkansas, is the largest meat and poultry producer in the United States. The company processes chicken, beef, pork, and prepared foods sold across grocery stores and restaurants nationwide.
3. JBS USA
JBS USA is the American arm of one of the world's largest meat processing companies. Operating across multiple states, JBS USA is a major employer and supplier in the beef, pork, and poultry segments of American agriculture.
4. Smithfield Foods
Smithfield Foods, headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, is the largest pork producer in the United States. The company operates vertically integrated farms, processing plants, and packaged meats brands serving consumers across the country.
5. Perdue Farms
Perdue Farms, family owned since 1920 and based in Salisbury, Maryland, is a leading producer of chicken, turkey, and pork in the United States. Perdue is known for its commitment to no-antibiotics-ever poultry and animal welfare practices.
6. Land O'Lakes, Inc.
Land O'Lakes, headquartered in Arden Hills, Minnesota, is a farmer-owned cooperative producing dairy products, animal nutrition, and crop inputs. With members across the country, Land O'Lakes is a cornerstone of American dairy and agribusiness.
7. Dole Food Company
Dole Food Company is a leading producer of fresh fruits and vegetables in the United States. From bananas and pineapples to packaged salads, Dole supplies grocery retailers and foodservice operators across the country.
8. Driscoll's
Driscoll's, headquartered in Watsonville, California, is the world's largest fresh berry producer. Through partnerships with hundreds of independent growers across the United States, Driscoll's supplies strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries to retailers nationwide.
9. Sun-Maid Growers of California
Sun-Maid is a cooperative of family farmers in California specializing in raisins and dried fruits. Founded in 1912, Sun-Maid remains one of the most iconic American agricultural brands, sold in homes across the country.
10. Sunkist Growers, Inc.
Sunkist Growers is a cooperative of citrus farmers based in California and Arizona. They supply fresh oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and mandarins to retailers and foodservice operators across the United States.
Trends Shaping American Farming
U.S. farming companies are embracing precision agriculture, regenerative practices, and supply chain transparency. Innovations like GPS-guided equipment, drone monitoring, and data-driven irrigation are helping growers boost productivity while reducing environmental impact. Consumer demand for organic, plant-based, and locally sourced foods is also reshaping how leading farming companies plan their operations.
The Future of U.S. Agriculture
From large-scale meat processors to cooperative berry growers, the American farming industry is diverse and resilient. As climate variability and global supply chain pressures grow, leading companies are investing in technology, sustainability, and workforce development to remain competitive. These ten farming companies illustrate the breadth and innovation that defines American agriculture today.