Del Real Foods

Del Real Foods is a manufacturer and distributor of Hispanic refrigerated foods, operating in the consumer-packaged goods market. The company's history began in 1957 when Jesus Cardenas and his wife, Luz, immigrated from Jalisco, Mexico, to Southern California. Starting with a small farm, the Cardenas family's passion for authentic Mexican cuisine, based on generational recipes, led to the creation of Del Real Foods. The business initially grew as a prepared food commissary for the family's Cardenas Markets, gaining popularity among friends and neighbors for its authentic taste.

The business produces a wide array of heat-and-serve products, including value-added proteins like carnitas and barbacoa, prepared items such as tamales and pupusas, fresh salsas, and side dishes. These products are made with fresh ingredients, without preservatives, and utilize traditional, small-batch cooking methods to maintain authenticity. The company's primary business model revolves around the production and sale of these refrigerated items to a diverse client base that includes large club stores, supermarkets, national restaurant chains, and foodservice distributors. Products are available at major retailers like Costco, Walmart, and Target. The company's USDA-approved facilities are located in California and Oklahoma.

In 2016, Palladium Equity Partners, a private investment firm, made a significant investment in Del Real Foods to help the company expand its geographical reach and distribution channels. Subsequently, in 2024, Corporación Multi Inversiones (CMI), a family-owned multilatina corporation, acquired a majority stake in the company. This partnership, which sees both the Cardenas family and Palladium retaining minority equity stakes, is aimed at accelerating innovation and further growth in the U.S. market. This strategic investment positions Del Real to capitalize on the rising consumer interest in international flavors.

Keywords: Hispanic refrigerated foods, authentic Mexican cuisine, heat-and-serve meals, Cardenas family, consumer packaged goods, prepared foods, carnitas, barbacoa, tamales, pupusas, salsas, private equity, food manufacturing, retail food products, club stores, supermarket supplier, foodservice distributor, USDA-approved, traditional recipes, family-owned business, Corporación Multi Inversiones, Palladium Equity Partners, Jurupa Valley, Mexican food brand, ready-to-eat meals