$35M USDA grants to enhance meat processing in US

Funds increase processing capacity and support US farmers

The USDA, under the guidance of Secretary Tom Vilsack and funded by President’s American Rescue Plan, has announced the allocation of over $35 million in grants to independent meat processors across the United States.

This funding marks the culmination of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP), which began in 2022 to foster a fairer, more resilient meat and poultry supply chain.

The grants are distributed among 15 meat processors in 12 different states, aiming to bolster the national food supply chain by increasing processing capabilities. This initiative not only supports hundreds of rural jobs but also provides greater market opportunities for local farmers, reflecting the Administration’s commitment to creating a more competitive and transparent agricultural market. 

Projects funded under this initiative include significant investments like the $10 million allocated to America’s Heartland Packing in Missouri for building a new beef processing plant and $750,000 awarded to Mark’s Custom Meats in Pennsylvania for facility expansion.

The USDA's strategic investments are part of a broader effort to enhance the sustainability of the American food system, focusing on local production and fair market practices. These investments also aim to provide more accessible and affordable food options for all Americans while supporting rural development and infrastructure, ensuring a thriving, equitable agricultural sector.