The American Cured Meat Championships featured more than 650 entries this year, from some of the most renowned small meat processors in the country.

At the 2016 American Cured Meat Championships, Holland Brothers broke through, winning twice in the bacon categories.

All total, there were almost 750 products entered at the 2016 Cured Meats Championships, held during the American Association of Meat Processors’ annual convention in Omaha, Neb. in July.

Independent Processor editor-in-chief Sam Gazdziak spoke with Dr. Ryan Cox of the University of Minnesota about judging the semi-dry sausage (non-fermented) category and the specialty cured products.

Independent Processor editor-in-chief Sam Gazdziak spoke with Dave Dewey from Chico Locker & Sausage Co. about judging the boneless commercial hams and snack sticks.

Independent Processor editor-in-chief Sam Gazdziak spoke with Dr. Liz Boyle of Kansas State University about judging the specialty game meats and flavored snack sticks.

Independent Processor editor-in-chief Sam Gazdziak spoke with Roger Alewel about judging the heavy weight bacons.