Introducing USAPEEC Members: Sanderson Farms

February 18, 2026

Sanderson Farms is one of the largest fully integrated poultry producers in the United States. Founded in 1947 in Laurel, Mississippi, the company has grown from a small regional business into a major national supplier of fresh and frozen chicken products. Today, Sanderson Farms operates an extensive production network across the southeastern and south-central United States, supplying retail, foodservice, and export customers.

The company’s vertically integrated structure includes approximately 12 processing plants, 11 hatcheries, and 9 feed mills strategically located in Mississippi, Texas, Louisiana, Georgia, and North Carolina. Through this system, Sanderson Farms controls every stage of production — from breeder flocks and egg incubation to feed manufacturing, grow-out, processing, packaging, and distribution. This integrated model allows the company to maintain consistent product quality, food safety, and animal welfare standards.

Sanderson Farms processes roughly 13 million chickens per week, producing several billion pounds of chicken annually. The company employs more than 14,000 people and partners with over 900 independent contract growers who raise birds according to strict company guidelines. By supplying chicks, feed, veterinary support, and technical expertise, Sanderson Farms ensures uniform production standards while supporting family farms and rural economies.

The company serves customers throughout the United States, with distribution covering nearly all 50 states. In addition to its strong domestic presence, Sanderson Farms exports chicken products to more than 50 international markets. Its portfolio includes fresh tray-pack products, bulk foodservice cuts, and further-processed items tailored to customer specifications.

Website: https://sandersonfarms.com/

Contact: 1-800-844-4030