The last couple of years have seen a strong growth in the number of meat businesses. Entrepreneurs see the need for small-scale slaughter and processing operations, and they have started businesses or expanded existing operations. A new guide helps to bring together some important considerations into one location.
“So You Want to Start a Meat Plant” is a primer that was developed by the Niche Meat Processor Assistance Network with contributions from the USDA, University of Kentucky, Colorado State University and Penn State’s Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development. It discusses some of the requirements, costs and planning that must be considered when you decide to build a new facility. It also provides a case study in a couple of different processors, who give tips on what you need to know ahead of time.