Nothum Food Processing Systems, headquartered in Springfield, Missouri, United States, is a third-generation, family-owned manufacturer specializing in high-performance equipment for the global food processing industry. Since its founding in 1971, Nothum has become a trusted supplier of innovative machinery for coating, frying, and filtration processes in poultry, seafood, plant-based, and red meat production facilities.
Core Business
Nothum designs, engineers, and manufactures a full range of battering, breading, frying, and filtration systems tailored for industrial-scale food processors. The company supports clients through every step of the value-added meat and protein processing chain, helping them optimize yield, consistency, and food safety.
Key product categories include:
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Predust & Breading Systems:
- SuperFlex: Highly adaptable predust and breading machine offering precise control for a variety of coating styles
- PankoPro: Engineered for delicate coatings like panko, ensuring minimal crumb breakdown
- VersaCoat: Versatile breader for heavy and irregular coatings
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Batter and Tempura Systems:
- BatterPro: High-capacity batter applicator capable of handling a wide range of viscosities and coating specifications
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Continuous Frying Equipment:
- ProTherm: Precision-controlled fryer designed for uniform cooking and optimized oil turnover
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Support Equipment:
- EzFlow: Automated frying oil filtration system that enhances oil longevity and reduces operational downtime
Specialization and USP
Nothum's strength lies in delivering modular, hygienically-designed systems that integrate seamlessly into both high-speed and specialty processing lines. The company emphasizes tool-less design for easy sanitation, PLC-based automation, and custom configurations for line integration.
Unique Selling Points (USP):
- Third-generation expertise with over 50 years in food processing innovation
- Equipment suitable for poultry, seafood, plant-based proteins, and red meat
- Focus on water and oil efficiency, reducing utility costs and environmental impact
- USDA and CE compliant designs, with global service and support
Financials and Market Reach
While privately held, Nothum is considered a mid-sized U.S. manufacturer with a strong international footprint. Based on industry insights and trade activity:
- Estimated annual revenue between USD 25–50 million
- Equipment installed in over 30 countries
- Major markets include United States, Canada, Germany, Mexico, South Korea, and Australia
Clients range from regional processors to multinational food manufacturers, including brands in quick service restaurant (QSR) supply chains, retail-ready meal producers, and plant-based meat innovators.
Shipment and Export Performance
According to global trade data and industry directories:
- Over 200 international system installations as of 2023
- Export formats include both fully assembled units and modular components
- Strong presence in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia
- Machinery complies with local electrical standards, sanitation codes, and export documentation
Nothum provides remote technical assistance, on-site commissioning, and custom operator training to ensure system performance from day one.
Target Market
Nothum’s systems are designed for:
- Meat, poultry, and seafood processors
- Frozen food manufacturers
- Plant-based and alternative protein producers
- Central kitchens and institutional food production plants
- Integrated QSR supply chain partners
Its equipment is suitable for operations requiring high-throughput with minimal downtime, especially those in ready-to-eat (RTE) and fully cooked product categories.
Capabilities
Nothum’s operational capabilities include:
- Full in-house mechanical and electrical engineering
- Dedicated equipment testing and product R&D center
- Custom machine fabrication using stainless steel and food-grade components
- Advanced CNC machining, welding, and assembly lines
- SCADA/PLC integration for automation and control systems
Nothum also offers factory acceptance testing (FAT) and virtual machine demos, enhancing transparency and client confidence prior to delivery.
Certifications and Compliance
- USDA-compliant hygienic design across all machinery
- CE certified equipment for European Union markets
- Equipment engineered to meet NSF/ANSI standards
- Materials and fabrication processes adhere to 3-A Sanitary Standards where applicable
- Ongoing investment in R&D to meet evolving regulatory requirements
Major Achievements
- Recognized as a preferred equipment supplier for multiple global protein processors
- Developed SuperFlex, the industry's most adaptable coating applicator with proven performance across multiple food categories
- Installed systems in more than 30 countries, serving clients with customized line layouts and throughput goals
- Praised for post-sales technical support and <1% system downtime across multi-year evaluations
- Featured at leading food technology exhibitions including IPPE (Atlanta), IFFA (Germany), and ProPak Asia
Nothum Food Processing Systems remains committed to engineering food processing solutions that deliver consistent quality, operational efficiency, and long-term value. With innovation at its core, the company continues to evolve alongside the dynamic demands of the global food industry.