In a normal year, we would be presenting Independent Processor’s annual Processor of the Year Award to a company that best exemplifies all of the qualities of a small or mid-sized meat processor. In a normal year, it’s a difficult process to determine which company to choose. However, there has been nothing normal about this year since mid-March. 

Independent Processor’s Sam Gazdziak speaks with Donna Kilpatrick of Heifer Ranch.

Independent Processor editor Sam Gazdziak and Perry Jones of Heifer USA talk about supporting small-scale farmers and processors.

Independent Processor editor Sam Gazdziak and Perry Jones of Heifer USA talk about supporting small-scale farmers and processors.

Independent Processor editor Sam Gazdziak talks with Fresh Picks co-founder Irv Cernauskas about how the company is thinking local in order to supply the Chicago-Milwaukee area.

Owners and managers of small meat plants have a significant impact on the success of the business with which they are involved. During good times, they can help their company grow and prosper and achieve long term success. 

Typically meat plants are exempt from FDA regulations; however, under certain conditions some meat plants will need to comply with parts of the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).

Consumers will continue to eat, and while the type of food they will buy is largely dependent on their financial stability, protein consumption remains steady.