10 High Growth Food Stocks to Buy

7. Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC)

Number of Hedge Funds Holders: 25

5-year Revenue CAGR: 10.22%

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) is known globally in the protein industry. It provides a diverse range of fresh, frozen, and value-added chicken and pork products across the U.S., Europe, and Mexico. The company serves retailers, food service operators, and international markets through its portfolio of well-known brands, such as Pilgrim’s, Just BARE, and Moy Park, establishing a broad and reliable presence in the food industry.

In Q4 2024, Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) reported strong financial results with net revenues of $4.4 billion and adjusted EBITDA of $526 million, reflecting a 12% margin. Furthermore, revenues for the full year totaled $17.9 billion, while adjusted EBITDA stood at $2.2 billion with a slightly higher margin of 12.4%.

Key sectors experienced significant growth, including the U.S. Fresh portfolio, which was driven by consistent pricing and operational efficiencies in Big Bird and continued expansion in Case Ready and Small Bird. Prepared foods were also in higher demand in retail and food service, while European operations improved through manufacturing optimization. Moreover, fresh and prepared foods were in higher demand in Mexico.

Thus, Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) is showing positive industry trends. Looking ahead, the USDA reports a 2.5% increase in the U.S. ready-to-cook chicken production in Q4, driven by higher sector headcounts.

Despite hatchability issues, poultry demand continues to rise, particularly as beef availability decreases, making chicken the preferred protein. The food service industry experienced consistent growth, with increased sales in both commercial and non-commercial channels.

With no immediate debt maturities, Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC) has demonstrated disciplined capital allocation and is well-positioned for further growth. For 2025, the company plans to allocate between $450 million and $500 million for capital expenditures, demonstrating its commitment to long-term expansion. Accordingly, Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation (NASDAQ:PPC)’s investor confidence remains high, with 25 hedge funds holding stakes in the company, as of Q4 2024. This points toward the company’s commitment to efficiency, sustainability, and product innovation, which has allowed it to maintain its position as a global protein market leader.