IRVINE, CALIF. — Golden State Foods (GSF), one of the largest diversified food processors and distributors in the United States, has acquired KanPak China, a manufacturer to the quick-service restaurant industry, located in Xiantao City.

“We are thrilled about our partnership with KanPak, a very professional company with a solid team in China,” said Mark Wetterau, chairman and chief executive officer of Golden State Foods, which now has a 51% ownership stake in KanPak China. “This acquisition is part of our company’s strategy to meet the needs of fast-growing international markets. We are especially looking forward to building our local manufacturing capabilities in China to serve our customers in that region. KanPak has an excellent facility there, providing opportunities to produce a full-range of products.”

Initially, GSF plans to produce portion control liquid products such as ketchup, sauces, dressings and syrups for customers in the quick-service restaurant industry, beginning in 2013. The company is currently one of the largest producers of portion control liquid products in the United States, and also makes meat products, produce, bakery and bulk-packaged liquid products and provides full-line distribution services to the industry.

KanPak China, which is based in Xiantao City in the Hubei Province, currently produces a variety of dairy-based products such as smoothies, ice cream, coffees, creamers, frozen desserts and specialty beverages for the quick-service restaurant and retail industries.

Mr. Wetterau said that the partnership will be “complementary,” enabling both companies to “round out” their offerings.

Established in 1947, GSF has approximately 4,000 employees worldwide, and serves more than 50 customers on six continents from its 33 facilities.

Wichita, Kas.-based KanPak L.L.C. makes aseptically packaged coffee, dairy and fruit beverages and desserts. The company has plants located in Arkansas City, Kas.; Queretaro, Mexico; and Xiantao, Hubei, China, as well as offices and distribution centers in Toronto, Mexico City and Shanghai. KanPak’s dispensing equipment business and facility is located in Southbury, Conn.