20 Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software
Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Food manufacturing ERP software integrates production, inventory, and compliance management into one system. It can help businesses reduce waste, improve efficiency, and ensure regulatory compliance. However, choosing the right food manufacturing ERP software is tough with so many options. Don’t worry, I got you!
Drawing from years of experience using various digital software, I tested and reviewed several ERP software options to help teams find their ideal solutions. Whether you're looking to improve your inventory management or reduce waste and costs, I'll help you find the best ERP systems to meet your food manufacturing needs.
Why Trust Our Software Reviews
We’ve been testing and reviewing accounting software since 2023. We know how critical and difficult it is to make the right decision, which is why my team of software analysts and I have put together this software list.
We’ve tested more than 2,000 tools for different finance and accounting use cases and written over 1,000 comprehensive software reviews. Learn how we stay transparent & our food manufacturing ERP software review methodology.
Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software Summary
This comparison chart summarizes pricing details for my top food manufacturing ERP software selections to help you find the best software for your budget and business needs.
| Tools | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| DELMIAWorks Manufacturing ERP | From $35/user/month | Website |
| BatchMaster | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Genius ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Deacom | Pricing upon request | Website |
| QAD ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| SYSPRO | From $199/user/month | Website |
| Datacor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| JustFood ERP | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Infor | Pricing upon request | Website |
| Aptean | Pricing upon request | Website |
Compare Software Specs Side by Side
Use our comparison chart to review and evaluate software specs side-by-side.
Compare SoftwareHow to Choose Food Manufacturing ERP Software
As you work through your unique software selection process, keep the following points in mind:
- Scalability: As the food manufacturing business grows, the ERP system should be able to accommodate increased demand and complexity. Look for a system that can handle a large number of users, transactions, and data without compromising performance. For example, a scalable ERP system can support production line expansions and new product lines without requiring a complete system overhaul.
- Industry-Specific Features: Food manufacturing has unique requirements such as recipe management, batch tracking, and compliance with food safety standards. Ensure the ERP software you choose offers these specialized features. For instance, recipe management capabilities allow ingredient tracking, ensuring consistent product quality.
- Regulatory Compliance: Compliance with food safety regulations like HACCP, FSMA, and GFSI is critical in the food industry. The ERP system should manage and document compliance efforts, including features for traceability, quality control, and recall management. For example, batch tracking can help quickly identify and recall affected products in case of contamination issues.
- Integration Capabilities: An ERP system should integrate seamlessly with other systems such as accounting software, CRM, and e-commerce platforms. This ensures smooth data transfer and reduces the need for manual data entry, saving time and minimizing errors. For example, integrating your ERP with your CRM system can provide a unified view of customer orders and inventory levels.
- Vendor Support and Reputation: The reputation and track record of the ERP software provider are crucial. Look for vendors with a proven history of successful implementations in the food manufacturing industry. Additionally, consider the level of customer support and training they offer. For instance, a vendor with extensive experience in the food industry can provide valuable insights and best practices during the implementation process.
Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software Reviews
This in-depth analysis provides overviews of each food manufacturing ERP software. It walks through the pros and cons, key features, and their best use cases.
Best for ingredient traceability and compliance
DELMIAWorks offers ERP and MES software for the food and beverage manufacturing industry. It excels in ingredient traceability and compliance, ensuring a transparent and accurate supply chain.
Why I picked DELMIAWorks: I chose DELMIAWorks for its ingredient traceability and compliance, which are critical for food manufacturers. Its comprehensive two-layer traceability from raw materials to finished products and adherence to global food safety regulations set it apart from other ERP solutions.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include batch processing, multi-plant seasonal demand forecasting, and robust scheduling. It supports multiple units of measure and offers private labeling functionality.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, Sage, Infor, Epicor, and JD Edwards.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- High level of customization is available
- Comprehensive modules for all business functions
- Real-time access to critical information
Cons:
- Updates can disrupt previous user settings
- Complex features mean there is a slight learning curve
BatchMaster offers a well rounded ERP solution for batch production and quality control. It excels in managing batch production processes, compliance, and inventory management.
Why I picked BatchMaster: I chose BatchMaster for its formula management and advanced quality control features. Its focus on regulatory compliance makes it ideal for food manufacturers needing precise and reliable operations.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include efficient formula management, comprehensive quality control, complete lot traceability, advanced tools for production and planning, and effective inventory management.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, SAP, Shopify, Magento, Amazon, WooCommerce, Salesforce, and FedEx.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- End-to-end features for entire company operations
- Strong quality control
- Advanced formula management
Cons:
- Slight learning curve
Genius ERP is an ERP solution tailored for custom manufacturers, including those in the bakery and food equipment manufacturing sector. It offers a complete suite of tools to streamline production, manage inventory, and ensure quality control.
Why I picked Genius ERP: Genius ERP is the best for bakery and food equipment manufacturing because it simplifies complex manufacturing processes, integrates engineering with production, and provides real-time insights to boost efficiency and product quality. It addresses unique challenges in this particular industry, such as managing complex production schedules and ensuring product quality.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include smart scheduling, inventory management, production planning, and quality control. It also provides real-time data analytics and integrates finance and accounting with manufacturing operations.
Integrations include QuickBooks Online, Salesforce, Shopify, HubSpot, Magento, Pipedrive, ShipStation, WooCommerce, Xero, Zapier, and Ware2Go.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Manages the entire manufacturing process efficiently
- Real-time data analytics
- Comprehensive production planning
Cons:
- Limited basic KPIs and standardized terms
- Scheduling can be complex and confusing
Deacom ERP software provides solutions for food and beverage manufacturing. It excels in hyper-tight process control, ensuring all systems work cohesively to maintain strict quality and operational standards.
Why I picked Deacom: I chose Deacom for its ability to integrate all necessary functionalities into a single ERP system, eliminating the need for additional bolt-ons. Deacom's cohesive system ensures strict lot control and efficient production planning, making it the best for maintaining stringent process standards.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include material requirements planning (MRP), lot tracking, quality control, and document generation. Its built-in MRP system helps plan and schedule production efficiently, while its lot tracking ensures full traceability. The software also supports multi-facility environments, allowing seamless transactions across different locations.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Salesforce, Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, Amazon, Shopify, Magento, eBay, FedEx, and UPS.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Effective for inventory, production, and finance
- Highly customizable
- No bolt-on approach, fully integrated system
Cons:
- Requires manual operations and limited automation
- Generates multiple windows
QAD offers ERP solutions for adaptive manufacturing and supply chain integration. It provides flexible and integrated solutions that adapt to evolving business models and supply chain disruption.
Why I picked QAD ERP: I chose QAD because it synchronizes all aspects of the supply chain, enabling agility and responsiveness to market changes. It has strong adaptive manufacturing capabilities and supply chain management, ensuring efficiency and compliance.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include integrated supply chain management, serialization and traceability, and a future-proof cloud-based delivery stack. These features ensure compliance with government regulations and enhance productivity from supply chain planning to shop floor operations.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, SAP, IBM, Infor, Epicor, Sage, NetSuite, and Workday.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Compliance with regulations
- Future-proof cloud-based stack
- Comprehensive supply chain integration
Cons:
- Requires some support training
- Outdated user interface and design
SYSPRO is an ERP software designed to streamline and manage critical business areas for manufacturing and distribution sectors. It provides industry-specific solutions for managing data and enhances operational efficiency.
Why I picked SYSPRO: I selected SYSPRO for its capabilities in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. It has real-time data analytics, comprehensive inventory management, and the ability to streamline complex business processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include embedded analytics for real-time data and business intelligence, supply chain management, and complete traceability throughout production.
Integrations include Microsoft Office, Salesforce, Shopify, QuickBooks, Sage, Oracle, SAP, Google Analytics, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and IBM Watson.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Industry-specific solutions for Recipe Management/ BOM
- Advanced inventory management features
- Real-time data analytics
Cons:
- Setup and maintenance costs can add up
- Slight learning curve and training may be required
Datacor is an ERP software that provides solutions for manufacturers and distributors to optimize their operations and meet regulatory requirements.
Why I picked Datacor: I chose Datacor for its lot tracking, which is crucial for maintaining quality and compliance in the food and beverage industry. It also provides end-to-end traceability from raw materials to finished products.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include cradle-to-grave lot tracking, quality control and assurance, warehouse management, and compliance with FDA, EPA, and OSHA regulations.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Salesforce, HubSpot, Magento, Shopify, WooCommerce, Xero, Zapier, ShipStation, and BigCommerce.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Regular updates with new functionalities
- Well-integrated modules for accounting and inventory
- Responsive and knowledgeable support team
Cons:
- Licensing changes can be costly and restrictive
- Reporting functions need better customization
JustFood is designed for food manufacturers and distributors to improve food safety, streamline operational efficiency, and manage business growth. It captures the data and processes needed to ensure quality control and meet safety standards.
Why I picked JustFood: I selected JustFood for its focus on food safety and compliance, which is crucial for food manufacturers. The software stands out for its comprehensive approach to capturing and managing data to meet strict safety standards.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced lot traceability, quality control management, recipe management, and regulatory compliance.
Integrations include Microsoft Dynamics, QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle, Sage, Infor, Epicor, NetSuite, Salesforce, and Zoho.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- End-to-end compliance features
- Cloud-based updates
- Focus on food safety
Cons:
- Limited business intelligence features
- High customization costs may be cost prohibitive to small businesses
Infor ERP software is designed to enhance food and beverage manufacturing with advanced automation and AI capabilities. It leverages real-time data and machine learning to optimize operations, improve traceability, and reduce waste.
Why I picked Infor: I chose Infor because of its advanced automation and AI. It integrates real-time data and machine learning to innovate and optimize food manufacturing processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time data analytics, machine learning, IoT-enabled Manufacturing Execution System (MES), advanced lot traceability, integrated quality management, and supply chain visibility.
Integrations include Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, SAP, QuickBooks, Sage, IBM, Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud, and Shopify.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Extensive data for future predictions
- Strong supply chain planning tools
- Reliable and efficient feature set
Cons:
- Navigation process is not always user friendly
- Slight learning curve
Aptean is an ERP software for the food and beverage industry specializing in contract manufacturing. It helps manufacturers meet unique customer needs, pivot product lines quickly, and maintain profitability.
Why I picked Aptean: I chose Aptean for its flexibility in managing diverse customer requirements and tracking capabilities. It is the best for contract manufacturing because it facilitates quick production line changes, enables end-to-end product tracking, and strict quality control.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include recipe and formula consistency, packaging and pallet labeling, inventory management, production management, traceability, quality control, and reporting & analytics.
Integrations include SAP, Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, Sage, QuickBooks, Salesforce, EDI, Infor, JD Edwards, and NetSuite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Robust quality control
- Flexible production management
- Comprehensive tracking capabilities
Cons:
- Limited mobile and EDI functionalities
- May require some technical expertise for full integration
Other Food Manufacturing ERP Software
Below is a list of additional food manufacturing ERP software that we shortlisted, but did not make it to the top list. Worth checking them out.
- Deskera
Best for real-time reporting and analytics
- MRPeasy
Best for cost control and inventory management
- NetSuite
Best for comprehensive financial management
- Oracle ERP
Best for integrated business processes
- Acumatica
Best for cloud-based operations
- Microsoft Cloud
Best for leveraging AI and analytics
- Bista
Best for custom ERP solutions
- Total ETO
Best for engineer-to-order manufacturing
- WhereFour
Best for traceability and compliance
- Sage X3 ERP
Best for scalable manufacturing solutions
Related ERP Software Reviews
If you still haven't found what you're looking for here, check out these tools closely related to ERP software, that we've tested and evaluated.
- Accounting Software
- POS Systems
- Billing Software
- Payroll Services
- Merchant Account Services
- Inventory Management Software
Food Manufacturing ERP Software Selection Criteria
Selecting the right ERP software for food manufacturing involves evaluating various criteria to ensure the software meets specific functionality and use cases. This process is crucial for addressing the unique needs and pain points of food manufacturing, such as compliance with food safety regulations, efficient resource allocation, and effective supply chain management.
The following criteria are based on extensive research and personal trials of various ERP tools, ensuring they align with the core requirements of food manufacturing businesses.
Core Food Manufacturing ERP Software Functionality: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Tracking ingredients, quantities, and costs, and making adjustments as needed
- Analyzing data from sales, production, and inventory to gain insights and make data-driven decisions
- Managing relationships with suppliers, tracking performance, and monitoring inventory levels
- Scheduling and assigning tasks, tracking resource usage, and monitoring production costs
- Managing customer orders, tracking inventory levels, and generating shipping labels and invoices
Additional Standout Features: 25% of Total Weighting Score
- Mapping out processes, identifying bottlenecks, and making adjustments to improve efficiency
- Handling a large number of users, transactions, and data without compromising performance
- A clean and intuitive interface that is easy to navigate and requires minimal training
- Seamless data transfer with accounting software, CRM, and e-commerce platforms
- Ensuring adherence to food safety standards and efficient recall management processes
Usability: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Easy-to-use dashboards and menus
- Ability to tailor the interface to specific user roles and preferences
- Access to key functionalities via mobile devices
Onboarding: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Availability of training videos, templates, and interactive product tours
- Comprehensive guides and FAQs
- Chatbots and webinars for real-time assistance
Customer Support: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- Round-the-clock support for critical issues
- Phone, email, and live chat options
- Personalized support for complex queries
Value For Money: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- A clear breakdown of costs, including any hidden fees
- Options for monthly or annual subscriptions
- Evaluating the ROI based on the software's impact on efficiency and productivity
Customer Reviews: 10% of Total Weighting Score
- High ratings for functionality, ease of use, and support
- In-depth feedback on specific features and performance
- Success stories from similar businesses in the food manufacturing industry
Trends for Food Manufacturing ERP Software
Choosing ERP software is a big decision, especially in the food manufacturing industry where precision is everything. Whether you're still considering your business ERP readiness or just keeping tabs on what's new, it's essential to stay informed about the latest trends. Here’s what the ERP food industry forecast looks like:
- AI and Machine Learning Integration: AI and machine learning are integrated into ERP systems as these technologies help in predictive maintenance and demand forecasting. This leads to reduced downtime and better inventory management.
- Blockchain for Traceability: Blockchain technology is used for traceability in food manufacturing. It ensures transparency and food safety by tracking the entire supply chain. This builds consumer trust and meets regulatory requirements.
- IoT for Real-Time Monitoring: IoT devices are increasingly used for real-time monitoring in food manufacturing as sensors track conditions like temperature and humidity. This ensures product quality and reduces waste.
- Cloud-Based ERP Solutions: Cloud-based ERP solutions are gaining popularity because they offer scalability and remote access. This is crucial for businesses with multiple locations.
- Sustainability and Green ERP: Sustainability features are being integrated into ERP systems as these features help track and reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing processes. This aligns with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
Staying on top of the latest trends is key, from AI predicting maintenance needs and managing inventory, to blockchain ensuring traceability and transparency. We are already looking at IoT devices monitoring your production environment in real-time and now cloud-based solutions are gaining traction for their flexibility. Keep these trends in mind as you navigate your ERP options and how these trends might shape future features and capabilities.
What is Food Manufacturing ERP Software?
Food manufacturing ERP software is a specialized enterprise resource planning system designed to meet the unique needs of the food and beverage industry. It helps manufacturers streamline operations, improve efficiency, and ensure compliance with stringent food safety regulations.
The primary components of food manufacturing ERP software include recipe and packaging management, costing, inventory control, production scheduling, quality assurance, compliance tracking, and mobile warehousing. These modules provide real-time visibility into production activities, automate routine tasks, and optimize resource allocation, ensuring the delivery of high-quality products while minimizing costs and waste.
Features of Food Manufacturing ERP Software
When selecting ERP software for food manufacturing, it's crucial to understand the key features that will support your business operations. These features ensure that your processes are efficient, compliant, and able to meet the demands of the industry.
- Inventory Management: This feature helps track raw materials and finished goods, ensuring the right stock levels to meet production demands.
- Quality Control: Ensuring all products meet safety and quality standards is essential for maintaining customer trust and regulatory compliance.
- Traceability: Tracking every ingredient from supplier to finished product is vital for managing recalls and ensuring food safety.
- Production Scheduling: Planning and optimizing production runs reduces downtime and ensures timely delivery of products.
- Compliance Management: Being up-to-date with industry regulations and standards helps avoid costly fines and ensure product safety.
- Recipe Management: Managed and standardized recipes ensure consistency in product quality and help control production costs.
- Costing: Provides detailed cost analysis for each product to manage margins and make informed pricing decisions.
- Supplier Management: Tracks supplier performance and manages relationships to get the best quality ingredients at the best prices.
- Reporting and Analytics: Having insights into production performance helps make data-driven decisions to improve efficiency and profitability.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Customer interactions and sales help build strong relationships and improve customer satisfaction.
Choosing the right ERP software with these features will help you manage your food manufacturing business more effectively, ensuring you meet industry standards and customer expectations.
Benefits of Food Manufacturing ERP Software
In food manufacturing, efficiency, compliance, and quality control are vital. Implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software specifically designed for food manufacturing can significantly enhance these aspects, providing numerous benefits to users and organizations. Below are five main benefits of using food manufacturing ERP software.
- Improved Inventory Management: By providing real-time tracking and management of inventory levels, ERP software helps businesses reduce waste, avoid stockouts, and ensure that raw materials and finished products are always available when needed.
- Enhanced Traceability and Compliance: ERP software ensures that all ingredients and products can be traced throughout the supply chain, which is crucial for meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring food safety. This traceability helps in quickly addressing any quality issues or recalls.
- Streamlined Production Processes: With ERP software, production schedules can be optimized, and workflows can be automated, leading to increased efficiency and reduced downtime. This streamlining helps in meeting production targets and reducing operational costs.
- Better Quality Control: ERP systems provide tools for monitoring and maintaining quality standards throughout manufacturing. This ensures that the final products meet the required specifications and reduces the risk of defects and customer complaints.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: By consolidating data from various departments, ERP software provides comprehensive insights and analytics. This data-driven approach enables managers to make informed decisions, improving overall business performance and strategic planning.
Implementing food manufacturing ERP software can transform the way businesses operate, leading to increased efficiency, compliance, and profitability. By leveraging these benefits, organizations can stay competitive and meet the ever-evolving demands of the food industry.
Costs & Pricing for Food Manufacturing ERP Software
When considering an ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) system for food manufacturing, it is essential to understand the various pricing plans and their associated costs. However, the costs can vary significantly based on the size of the business, the number of users, and the specific features required. Below, we provide a detailed overview of different plan options and their pricing to help you make an informed decision.
Plan Comparison Table for Food Manufacturing ERP Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free | $0 | Basic inventory management, order processing, limited user access |
| Basic | $5,000 - $8,000 | Financials, basic reporting, limited customization, up to 3 users |
| Standard | $30,000 | Financials, sales, inventory management, basic CRM, up to 10 users |
| Professional | $48,000 | Financials, sales, inventory management, advanced CRM, quality control, up to 15 users |
| Enterprise | $75,000 - $750,000 | Full suite including advanced analytics, supply chain management, compliance tracking, unlimited users |
When selecting a food manufacturing ERP software, consider the size of your business, the number of users, and the specific features you need. Each plan offers different levels of functionality and pricing, so choose the one that best aligns with your operational requirements and budget.
Food Manufacturing ERP Software FAQs
How does ERP software help with compliance and traceability?
ERP software helps with compliance and traceability by providing tools to track and document every step of the production process. This includes recording batch numbers, expiration dates, and supplier information. The software can generate reports and audits to ensure compliance with food safety regulations such as FDA, HACCP, and FSMA. Traceability features allow manufacturers to identify and address any issues related to product recalls or quality control.
Can ERP software integrate with existing systems?
Yes, most modern ERP software solutions are designed to integrate with existing systems such as accounting software, CRM systems, and other specialized applications. This integration ensures a seamless flow of information across different departments, reducing data silos and improving overall efficiency.
How can ERP software improve production efficiency?
ERP software improves production efficiency by providing tools for better planning, scheduling, and resource management. It helps in optimizing production workflows, reducing downtime, and minimizing waste. Real-time data and analytics enable manufacturers to make informed decisions, identify bottlenecks, and implement continuous improvement strategies.
How does food manufacturing ERP software improve inventory management?
Food manufacturing ERP software improves inventory management by providing real-time visibility into stock levels, tracking raw materials and finished goods, and reducing waste. It automates reorder points and manages lot and batch tracking. The software ensures accurate inventory records and prevents stockouts or overstock situations. This leads to better resource utilization and cost savings.
How does food manufacturing ERP software enhance quality control?
Food manufacturing ERP software enhances quality control by automating quality checks, tracking production processes, and ensuring compliance with standards. It provides real-time monitoring and alerts for deviations. The software maintains detailed records of quality tests and results. This helps identify and address issues promptly, ensuring consistent product quality.
What are the challenges of implementing food manufacturing ERP software?
The challenges of implementing food manufacturing ERP software include high upfront costs, complex customization, and extensive training requirements. Integration with existing systems can be difficult as it may require changes in business processes and resistance from staff. Proper planning and support are essential for successful implementation and adoption.
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