USDA Targets Small Meat Processing Capacity Shortages Nationwide

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is targeting shortages in small meat processing capacity as ranchers in some areas face long trips to get cattle processed.

USDA Under Secretary for Food Safety Dr. Mindy Brashears says about 80 percent of U.S. beef processing capacity is concentrated among four major processors.

Brashears says another 15 percent of capacity is held by other large processors, leaving only about 5 percent in small and very small plants. Some producers may drive one or two hours for processing, while others travel much farther when nearby capacity is unavailable.

“This is unfortunate because we have local ranchers who might want to have a branded product or even just to have their beef processed for their family and bring it home,” Brashears said.

USDA wants ranchers to have greater access to inspected plants so they can process cattle for family use or sell branded products through legal market channels. Brashears says the goal is to create more opportunities for producers while maintaining federal oversight.

“We want to create avenues where this can occur again. It’s still under inspection. It’s still safe, and we’re not compromising that,” Brashears said.

Brashears says some paperwork, data-entry requirements, and other operating requirements can create hurdles for small and very small processors. USDA is looking at ways to help processors navigate those requirements and reduce outdated requirements without compromising food safety standards.