Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨

The food processing industry in Latin America plays a vital role in transforming raw ingredients into consumables for various markets. This sector includes companies of all sizes, ranging from established giants like JBS and Grupo Bimbo to emerging startups focused on health-conscious and plant-based foods. The industry offers a wide array of products, from meat and dairy to snacks and beverages. As tastes evolve and sustainability becomes a priority, innovations such as plant-based proteins and clean label products are gaining traction, driving substantial growth opportunities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ region. Investments are increasingly directed towards technology-driven solutions that enhance efficiency and reduce waste.

This article highlights 16 notable food processing investors, with a mix of corporate and venture capital firms active in Latin America. Headquartered primarily in Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors vary in size, from small firms to large enterprises. Most were established in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ early 2000s or earlier, showing a trend of enduring presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ market. Collectively, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y engaged in 94 investments in 2024, demonstrating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector. Some, like JBS and BRF, are top-tier players shaping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industry, while oÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rs focus on innovative startups transforming food tech.

Top 16 Food Processing Investors in Latin America

1. bossa invest

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 56
• LinkedIn:

Bossa Invest is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in investing in innovative startups, particularly in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ technology sector, while also supporting entrepreneurs with capital, strategic guidance, and access to a network of co-investors. In addition to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir focus on technology, Bossa Invest has participated in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry. Notable investments include Banza, which raised $20 million to enhance its food service and brand development, and The Better Meat Co., which closed an $8.1 million seed round to develop hybrid protein products. These investments highlight Bossa Invest's engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food sector, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to fostering growth in diverse industries, including food processing.

2. Jbs

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 1953
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

JBS S.A. is a prominent corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 1953. As a leading food processing company, JBS specializes in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ production of beef, pork, poultry, fish, and plant-based products. The company serves a diverse range of customers, including food retailers and restaurants, by providing high-quality meat and food products. JBS operates globally and is committed to sustainability and responsible practices in its operations. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Pilgrims Pride for $800 million in 2009, Seara Alimentos for $2.5 billion in 2013, and Cargill's US-based pork business for $1.45 billion in 2015, which positioned JBS as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ second largest pork producer in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ United States. Additionally, JBS acquired Primo Smallgoods in 2015 and announced plans to acquire Empire Packing Co. LP for $238 million in 2020, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r expanding its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry.

3. Grupo Bimbo

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

Grupo Bimbo is a prominent corporate investor based in Mexico City, Mexico, and is recognized as a leading manufacturer of baked goods, including bread, pastries, and snacks. Founded in 1945, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has established a global presence, serving consumers with convenient and nutritious options. Grupo Bimbo has been actively expanding its portfolio through strategic acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Canada Bread Company for $1.83 billion in 2014, which significantly enhanced Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir market position in North America. In 2022, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired St. Pierre Groupe, a UK-based baker of premium brioche-style products, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r diversifying Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir offerings. Most recently, in 2024, Grupo Bimbo acquired Pagnifique, a Latin American producer of baked goods, aligning with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic expansion goals. These acquisitions reflect Grupo Bimbo's commitment to growth within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a key player in this sector.

4. Semillero Partners LLC

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 1
• LinkedIn:

Semillero Partners LLC is a venture capital firm based in San Juan, Puerto Rico, founded in 2016. The firm specializes in empowering entrepreneurs within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Food & Beverage, Food Tech, and Wellness industries by providing investment capital and strategic guidance to foster sustainable growth. Notable transactions include a $5 million Series A investment in The Jackfruit Company, which focuses on producing jackfruit-based food products, and a $3 million Series A investment in Afia, a Mediterranean food company aiming to scale its product line and expand manufacturing capabilities. These investments highlight Semillero Partners' commitment to supporting innovative food processing companies and contributing to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growth of Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food industry.

5. Enfini Investments

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn:

Enfini Investments is an investment firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2020. The firm specializes in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food tech sector, focusing on fostering technology initiatives that promote sustainable food production. Enfini Investments collaborates closely with its portfolio companies to enhance Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir business plans and operational strategies. Notable transactions include participation in Series B funding rounds for Aleph Farms, a company known for its cultured meat products, and UPSIDE Foods, which focuses on lab-grown meat. They also invested in BlueNalu, a company developing cell-cultured seafood, and Mission Barns, which specializes in cellular agriculture. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y were involved in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ funding of Good Catch, a plant-based seafood brand. These investments reflect Enfini's commitment to advancing innovative solutions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food industry, particularly in areas that intersect with food processing.

6. Femsa

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico
• Founded year: 1890
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

Fomento Económico Mexicano S.A.B. de C.V. (Femsa) is a multinational corporation based in Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, primarily operating in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage and retail sectors. As Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ largest Coca-Cola bottler globally, Femsa has a significant presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ beverage industry. However, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has also diversified its portfolio through strategic acquisitions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing and restaurant sectors. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of a minority stake in Jetro Restaurant Depot, a U.S.-based wholesale cash and carry business, which allows Femsa to expand its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food supply chain. Additionally, Femsa acquired Grupo Torrey, a leading commercial kitchen equipment company, and Doña Tota, a quick-service restaurant operator, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r solidifying its involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry. These investments reflect Femsa's commitment to enhancing its offerings and leveraging its retail expertise to create value in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food sector.

7. Kptl

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2020
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

KPTL is a venture capital firm based in São Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2020. With over 15 years of experience, KPTL has made more than 124 investments, focusing on innovative startups across various sectors. Among Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir notable transactions, KPTL invested in Raizs, a Brazilian foodtech that raised BRL 20 million to expand its offerings in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food sector, including dairy and grains. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y supported Ecotrace Solutions, which specializes in blockchain-based traceability for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ agrifood value chain, securing funding to enhance transparency in food processing. These investments highlight KPTL's strategic focus on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food industry, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir broader investment portfolio.

8. Brf

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 1934
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 4
• LinkedIn:

BRF is a corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 1934. As a leading food manufacturing company, BRF specializes in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ production and distribution of meat and poultry products, serving a diverse customer base that includes both consumers and businesses in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food industry. The company emphasizes quality and sustainability in its operations. BRF has been actively expanding its footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector through various strategic acquisitions, such as a 70% stake in FFM FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r Processing in Malaysia and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ full acquisition of Alimentos Calchaquí Productos in Argentina, which owns Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Bocatti cold-cut brand. Additionally, BRF's investment in Aleph Farms, a company focused on innovative meat production, showcases its commitment to advancing food technology. With a total of 52 plants globally, including nine in Argentina, BRF continues to enhance its operations and market presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry.

9. SP Ventures

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

SP Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2007. The firm specializes in investments in technology-driven solutions for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ agriculture and food sectors, supporting early-stage startups with capital and consulting services to foster innovation and growth. SP Ventures has been actively involved in several relevant transactions, including a R$2 million investment in Pink Farms, an agrotech startup, and participation in a $6 million Series A funding round for ZoomAgri, a startup focused on Ag&Food technology. These investments demonstrate SP Ventures' commitment to enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ AgFood value chain and addressing challenges within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, particularly in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Latin American context.

10. Monashees

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 18
• LinkedIn:

Monashees is a venture capital firm based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2005. The firm specializes in investing in technology-based companies across Latin America, providing not only funding but also support in areas such as talent acquisition and fundraising. Notably, Monashees has been active in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, particularly through Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investments in Fazenda Futuro, a Brazilian foodtech company that produces plant-based meat alternatives. They led Fazenda Futuro's Series A round in 2019, contributing $8.5 million, and participated in subsequent funding rounds, including a Series B round of $21.3 million in 2020 and a Series C round of $42 million in 2021. These transactions highlight Monashees' strategic focus on innovative food processing solutions, particularly in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growing plant-based market.

11. Marfrig Global Foods

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn:

Marfrig Global Foods is a leading meat producer based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, specializing in beef and processed meat products. Founded in 2000, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has grown to operate in multiple countries, providing high-quality meat to food service and retail customers globally. Marfrig's strategic acquisitions have significantly enhanced its position in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry. Notably, in 2018, Marfrig acquired a 51% stake in National Beef Packing Company for $969 million, positioning itself as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ world's second-largest beef processor with consolidated sales of $13 billion. Additionally, in 2019, Marfrig acquired U.S.-based Iowa Premium from Sysco in a deal valued at $150 million, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ning its foothold in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ U.S. beef market. These transactions highlight Marfrig's focus on expanding its production capacity and international presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector.

12. Santatera Capital

• Website: santatera.com
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Santatera Capital is a venture capital firm based in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, founded in 2022. The firm specializes in investments within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ Food & Beverage industry, targeting early-stage startups that are innovating in food products and technologies. Santatera Capital aims to provide both capital and strategic support to help Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se businesses thrive in a competitive market. Notable transactions include leading a $2.6 million seed funding round for Tia Lupita Foods, a brand focused on Mexican-inspired food products, and participating in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ seed round for BeanVIVO, which emphasizes innovative food solutions. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y invested in Mezcla, a company recognized for its innovative nutrition bars, which raised $4 million in Series A funding. These investments highlight Santatera Capital's active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector.

13. Grupo Lala

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Rancho Playa, Veracruz, Mexico
• Founded year: 1950
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn:

Grupo Lala, S.A.B. de C.V. is a leading food manufacturer based in Rancho Playa, Veracruz, Mexico, specializing in dairy and meat products. Founded in 1950, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has established a strong presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, offering a diverse range of products including milk, yogurt, cheese, and processed meats. Grupo Lala has been actively expanding its operations through strategic acquisitions, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ purchase of Vigor Alimentos, a Brazilian dairy company, for approximately $1.83 billion, which significantly enhances Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir footprint in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ dairy market. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Laguna Dairy's U.S. branded business for $246 million aims to strengÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨n Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir presence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ U.S. Hispanic market. OÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Farmland Dairies in New Jersey and National Dairy from Dairy Farmers of America, both of which have expanded Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir distribution capabilities in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ U.S. market. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Eskimo in Nicaragua allows Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m to enter Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ ice cream category, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to growth in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector.

14. Moriah Asset

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Moriah Asset is a corporate investor based in Sao Paulo, Brazil, founded in 2019. The firm specializes in technology and wellness, offering innovative tech solutions and health-related products aimed at health-conscious consumers and businesses. Moriah Asset has been actively investing in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector, with notable transactions including a Series A investment in Naturanic, which focuses on health-oriented food products, and an investment in Haoma, a Brazilian chocolate company that is expanding its geographic reach. They also invested in Oakberry, which is known for its healthy food offerings. These transactions highlight Moriah Asset's commitment to supporting companies that align with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir focus on wellness and healthy eating, making Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing investment landscape.

15. Crescera Capital

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Rio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• Number of deals in 2024: 7
• LinkedIn:

Crescera Capital is a private equity and venture capital investment firm based in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, founded in 2008. The firm specializes in providing growth capital and strategic guidance to mid-sized companies across various sectors, including education, technology, health, and notably, food processing. Crescera has made several investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, including notable transactions such as Villa Germania Alimentos, Forno de Minas, Laticinios Sao Vincente, Rede Oba Hortifruti, and Hortifruti. These investments reflect Crescera's commitment to enhancing operational performance and preparing food processing companies for market opportunities, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in this sector.

16. Veronorte

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Sabanalarga, Antioquia, Colombia
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn:

Veronorte is a venture capital firm based in Sabanalarga, Antioquia, Colombia, founded in 2012. The firm is dedicated to sustainable development in Latin America, investing in early and growth-stage companies across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and healthcare. Veronorte aims to facilitate access to sustainable opportunities, helping businesses navigate Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ regional market effectively. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have participated in significant funding rounds for companies relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry, such as Jumbotail, which raised $25 million in a Series B3 round, and Nuritas, a biotechnology company that closed a $45 million Series B funding round. Their investment in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se companies highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing sector, aligning with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir mission of driving value and innovation.

Food Processing Insights: Key Investors in Latin America

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	11-50	2011	56
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	10001+	1953	1
	Mexico City, Mexico City, Mexico	10001+	1945	4
	San Juan, San Juan, Puerto Rico	1-10	2016	1
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	1-10	2020	0
	Monterrey, Nuevo Leon, Mexico	10001+	1890	3
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	11-50	2020	5
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	10001+	1934	4
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	1-10	2007	3
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	11-50	2005	18
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	10001+	2000	0
Santatera Capital	Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico	1-10	2022	2
	Rancho Playa, Veracruz, Mexico	10001+	1950	0
	Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	11-50	2019	5
	Rio De Janeiro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil	11-50	2008	7
	Sabanalarga, Antioquia, Colombia	1-10	2012	0

Want to find more investors focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ food processing industry?

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• Deal History: Number of deals and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir sizes.
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• ...and much more!