meat processing

In a move that could reshape our local food scene, the USDA is stepping up to support small meat and poultry processors. Here’s what it means.

Agricultural data firm Agri Stats has agreed to settle a federal antitrust class-action lawsuit accusing it of helping major U.S. meat processors suppress worker wages by sharing confidential compensation data.

This week, the Meat Institute called for the processing sector, a critical part of the meat and poultry supply chain, to be included in the Trump administration’s plans for a stable and legal agriculture workforce.    “As reforms are considered, we urge the Trump administration to include meat and poultry packers and processors in the efforts to improve agriculture worker programs,” said Julie Ann

The North American beef cattle herd size is at a 40-year low, after several years of drought and feed shortages in primary cattle regions have taken a heavy toll on cow and heifer numbers.  While cattle producers are seeing record-high prices, the beef processing sector is struggling.  ...

With so many commodities struggling right now, it’s nice to hear about sectors of the farming industry that are doing well.  University of Idaho Associate Professor of Meat Science Phill Bass said beef demand is very strong domestically and internationally, which means many producers are making money.  However, whil...

Earlier this month, Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced the Meat Small Business Innovation Act of 2024, which she said will support farmers, ranchers, and small and medium-sized processors.  The Wisconsin Democrat said the bill makes technical assistance and grants available to help improve the meat processing industry.   “...

In a recent press release, Oregon State University Extension Service announced they received a three-year, $650,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

With few options locally or regionally for many livestock producers, legislation was introduced in Washington D.C. to help expand the available meat processing resources.

The funding is part of an ongoing effort to boost economic development and enable Oregonians access to locally produced meat products.

On Monday, Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack announced an $89 million investment to finance the startup and expansion of independent meat processors.  USDA also announced the department's initial steps to create a more competitive marketplace for seeds and other agricultural inputs.  Vilsack...