The ultimate problem with gestation crates is that the public will never understand the need for them.

Small meat processors have the ability to produce products for local or regional markets that are unique in ethnicity, appearance, texture and flavor.

Earlier this year, the Food Safety and Inspection Service began posting notices of humane-handling enforcement actions taken at federally inspected slaughter establishments.

With two decades of experience in the protein business, I have seen the same lesson offered repeatedly; when supply exceeds demand, there are many losers and few winners. Economics should be prominent in the curriculum of poultry science students, because the principal lessons of economics are ignored by key management groups.

ICE interventions and fines associated with the Form I-9 can evaporate thanks to a new DHS worker eligibility screening process unveiled this year.

There are numerous ways for those in the meat business to increase summertime sales

It comes as no surprise that the companies in the Top 75 Report always seem to have something new going on. Whether it's a new product rollout, a plant expansion or the addition of some new equipment, they are continually looking for the next opportunity or growth market.

As the debate over the use of gestation stalls continues, it has become clearer that science is not the trump card in decision making, but it is still an incredibly valuable component.

Before I started writing about meat processing, I spent several years covering the woodworking industry. For much of that time, I focused on custom woodworkers. Although I never learned how to operate a bandsaw or program a router, I did get to see some true artisans in action.

There are many reasons why middle market owners wanting to sell their companies during the next ten years should consummate a sale no later than 2014, preferably sooner.