18 Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software
Best Food Manufacturing ERP Software Shortlist
Here’s my pick of the 10 best software from the 18 tools reviewed.
Managing finances in the food manufacturing industry is no small feat. As a CFO, you juggle budgets, supply chains, and compliance, often with outdated systems. That's where food manufacturing ERP software comes in. It can help you gain better control over your operations, reduce waste, and ensure compliance with industry standards.
I've independently tested various ERP solutions to provide you with an unbiased review of the best options available. In my experience, choosing the right software can transform how your team operates, focusing more on growth and less on administrative headaches.
In this article, you'll find detailed reviews of top ERP software that cater specifically to the food manufacturing industry. You'll learn about their features, pros, and cons to make an informed decision.
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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.
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for cost control and inventory management | 30-day free trial | From $49/user/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for ingredient traceability and compliance | 15-day free trial | From $35/user/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for manufacturing and distribution | Free demo available | From $199/month | Website | |
| 4 | Best for batch production and quality control | Free demo available | Pricing available upon request | Website | |
| 5 | Best for adaptive manufacturing and supply chain integration | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 6 | Best for cradle-to-grave lot tracking | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best for bakery and food equipment manufacturing | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 8 | Best for food safety and compliance | Not available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 9 | Best for advanced automation and AI | Free demo available | Pricing is customized based on business needs | Website | |
| 10 | Best for contract manufacturing flexibility | Free demo available | Pricing available upon request | Website |
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Rippling Spend
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.8 -
LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
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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.
MRPeasy is a cloud-based ERP solution for food and beverage manufacturers that provides comprehensive insight into the production process.
Why I picked MRPeasy: I chose MRPeasy for its flexible inventory management and cost control features, which are essential for food manufacturers to reduce waste and maintain financial health.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include flexible inventory management, end-to-end traceability, quality control, built-in recipe and bill of materials functionality, and batch production capabilities. MRPeasy also offers an easy-to-implement, fully cloud-based solution that scales with your business.
Integrations include Amazon, QuickBooks Online, Xero, Shopify, Magento, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, Pipedrive, ShipStation, Zapier
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Facilitates production scheduling effectively
- Excellent for inventory control visibility
- Easy to implement and use
Cons:
- Limited customizations
- Limited advanced analytics
New Product Updates from MRPeasy
MRPeasy Adds Unattended Operations for Passive Processing
MRPeasy adds support for unattended operations, allowing passive processing for steps like drying, cooling, or quarantine that don’t require active supervision. This helps manufacturers reduce labor costs and improve production efficiency. For more information, visit MRPeasy's official site.
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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
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
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
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
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
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
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.
- Deacom
For hyper-tight process control
- Deskera
For real-time reporting and analytics
- Oracle ERP
For integrated business processes
- Acumatica
For cloud-based operations
- WhereFour
For traceability and compliance
- Sage X3 ERP
For scalable manufacturing solutions
- Microsoft Cloud
For leveraging AI and analytics
- Bista
For custom ERP solutions
Food Manufacturing ERP Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best food manufacturing ERP software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like supply chain transparency and compliance with food safety regulations. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total score)
To be considered for inclusion in this list, each solution had to fulfill these common use cases:
- Manage inventory levels
- Track production schedules
- Ensure quality control
- Handle supply chain logistics
- Facilitate regulatory compliance
Additional Standout Features (25% of total score)
To help further narrow down the competition, I also looked for unique features, such as:
- Real-time data analytics
- Customizable reporting tools
- Integration with IoT devices
- Mobile access capabilities
- Automated recall management
Usability (10% of total score)
To get a sense of the usability of each system, I considered the following:
- Intuitive interface design
- Easy navigation
- Customizable dashboards
- Speed of task completion
- User-friendly terminology
Onboarding (10% of total score)
To evaluate the onboarding experience for each platform, I considered the following:
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Access to chatbots for assistance
- Comprehensive user manuals
- Participation in live webinars
Customer Support (10% of total score)
To assess each software provider’s customer support services, I considered the following:
- 24/7 support availability
- Multi-channel support options
- Response time to inquiries
- Access to dedicated account managers
- Availability of a knowledge base
Value For Money (10% of total score)
To evaluate the value for money of each platform, I considered the following:
- Competitive pricing plans
- Flexible subscription options
- Feature set relative to cost
- Discounts for long-term contracts
- Cost of additional modules
Customer Reviews (10% of total score)
To get a sense of overall customer satisfaction, I considered the following when reading customer reviews:
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Frequency of updates and improvements
- Feedback on customer support
- Ease of implementation feedback
- User testimonials and case studies
How to Choose Food Manufacturing ERP Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Will the software grow with your business? Consider potential increases in production volume and team size. Ensure the tool can scale without major disruptions or costly upgrades. |
| Integrations | Does it connect with your existing systems? Look for compatibility with your current accounting, CRM, and supply chain tools to avoid silos and ensure smooth data flow. |
| Customizability | Can you tailor the software to your needs? Evaluate how much you can tweak workflows, reports, and dashboards to fit your specific processes and preferences. |
| Ease of use | Is the interface intuitive for your team? Test the software's navigation and design. Avoid tools that require extensive training or have a steep learning curve. |
| Implementation and onboarding | How quickly can you get started? Assess the time and resources required for setup. Check for available training resources, like videos and guides, to ease the transition. |
| Cost | Is the pricing clear and within budget? Compare different pricing models and consider the total cost, including any hidden fees for extra users or features. |
| Security safeguards | Does it protect your data? Verify if the software complies with industry security standards and offers features like encryption and regular backups. |
| Compliance requirements | Does it meet industry regulations? Ensure the software adheres to food safety and quality standards relevant to your operations, such as FDA or HACCP guidelines. |
What Is Food Manufacturing ERP Software?
Food manufacturing ERP software is a tool that helps manage and integrate various processes within food production, such as inventory, production, and compliance. Operations managers, production planners, and quality assurance teams commonly use these tools to improve efficiency and ensure compliance with regulations. Inventory tracking, production scheduling, and compliance management features support transparency and efficiency in operations. Overall, these tools help businesses optimize their processes and maintain quality standards.
Features
When selecting food manufacturing ERP software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- Inventory management: Tracks raw materials and finished goods to prevent shortages and overstock, ensuring smooth production flow.
- Production scheduling: Plans and organizes production tasks to optimize resource use and meet delivery deadlines.
- Quality control: Monitors product quality at different stages to maintain standards and comply with regulations.
- Compliance management: Ensures adherence to food safety and industry regulations, reducing the risk of legal issues.
- Data analytics: Provides insights into operations through real-time data analysis, aiding in informed decision-making.
- Customizable dashboards: Allows users to tailor their interface to display relevant metrics and reports for quick access.
- Integration capabilities: Connects with existing tools like accounting and CRM systems for seamless data flow across departments.
- Mobile access: Enables remote monitoring and management of operations, providing flexibility for on-the-go decision-making.
- Automated recall management: Facilitates quick identification and removal of affected products in case of recalls, protecting brand reputation.
- Supply chain logistics: Manages and optimizes the flow of goods from suppliers to production and distribution, enhancing efficiency.
Benefits
Implementing food manufacturing ERP software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Improved efficiency: Automates routine tasks and optimizes production schedules, reducing downtime and boosting productivity.
- Enhanced quality control: Monitors quality at every production stage, helping maintain high standards and compliance with regulations.
- Better inventory management: Tracks stock levels in real-time, preventing shortages and minimizing waste, which saves costs.
- Informed decision-making: Offers data analytics that provide insights into operations, enabling strategic planning and resource allocation.
- Streamlined compliance: Manages regulatory requirements efficiently, reducing the risk of non-compliance and potential fines.
- Increased flexibility: Mobile access allows team members to manage tasks remotely, adapting to dynamic work environments.
- Effective supply chain management: Coordinates logistics to ensure timely delivery of materials and products, enhancing customer satisfaction.
Costs & Pricing
Selecting food manufacturing ERP software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in food manufacturing ERP software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Food Manufacturing ERP Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | $0 | Basic inventory tracking, limited reporting, and basic user support. |
| Personal Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Inventory management, production scheduling, and basic compliance management. |
| Business Plan | $50-$150/user/month | Advanced quality control, data analytics, and customizable dashboards. |
| Enterprise Plan | $150+/user/month | Full integration capabilities, mobile access, automated recall management, and priority customer support. |
Food Manufacturing ERP Software FAQs
How does ERP software support compliance in food manufacturing?
ERP software helps you manage compliance by tracking regulatory requirements and ensuring your processes align with food safety standards. It automates documentation and reporting, reducing manual errors. This keeps your team prepared for audits and minimizes the risk of non-compliance fines.
Can ERP systems integrate with existing software?
Yes, most ERP systems can integrate with your existing software. This allows for seamless data flow between departments, like accounting and inventory. Before purchasing, check if the ERP solution supports integrations with your current systems to avoid costly customizations.
What are the deployment options for ERP systems?
You can choose between on-premise and cloud-based ERP systems. Cloud solutions offer flexibility and lower upfront costs, while on-premise systems give you more control over data. Consider your team’s needs and budget when deciding which option fits best.
How long does it take to implement an ERP system?
Implementation time varies, commonly ranging from a few months to over a year. Factors include the complexity of your operations and the level of customization needed. Plan for training and possible disruptions to ensure a smooth transition for your team.
What’s Next:
If you're in the process of researching food manufacturing ERP software, connect with a SoftwareSelect advisor for free recommendations.
You fill out a form and have a quick chat where they get into the specifics of your needs. Then you'll get a shortlist of software to review. They'll even support you through the entire buying process, including price negotiations.