Articles by Sam Gazdziak

Even a well-established business has to be ready to adapt to change, either by necessity or choice. Tying all of your business to one particular niche is a great concept – as long as that niche remains profitable.

As food trends come and go, it becomes paramount that a meat processor be aware of consumer desires and develop products to meet those desires. In a category like burgers, where multiple trends are taking place, that company must be versatile enough to handle every need.

Pederson's Natural Farms has been pleasing meat lovers for many years with its smoked sausage, hams and especially its uncured bacon. The Hamilton, Texas-based processor is expanding its expertise into a new retail category by introducing a new line of deli meats.

Lower Family Foods has remained a family tradition for four generations and more than 90 years of operation. Now, as a deli meat and cooked meat specialist, it is still working hard to be not only a top meat supplier and a good neighbor to its Richmond, Utah community.

Consumers are projected to eat a record amount of meat, so there must be a steady supply of available protein. However, industry consolidation has reduced the amount of packers to a handful of dominant players, and federal regulations are so strict that some companies are closing down or exiting the slaughter side of the business.

The simple hamburger is a grand opportunity for any chef to don their mad scientist lab coat and get as creative as possible. Read a description of a burger in many restaurants, and you are likely to find exotic toppings, multiple proteins or consumer-friendly buzzwords.

Certified Angus Beef celebrates its 40th anniversary with a nationwide barn-painting campaign.

What are the trends you’re keeping an eye on for the future?

Illinois meat processor plans to double its facility to meet the needs of the meat snack market.