Beginning Farmer & Land Access
Beginning Farmer Meat Processing Regulations Guide
A guide to meat processing regulations for beginning farmers. It helps producers learn the processing options and the agencies to contact before selling meat. Print a fresh copy for each project.
GuideBeginning Farmer & Land AccessFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Learn inspected and custom options
- Find nearby processors
- Book processing dates early
- Ask about labeling rules
- Ask about sales limits
- Contact state meat inspection
- Plan transport of animals
- Keep processing records
How to use this guide
Read the steps once through before you start, then keep the page nearby while you work. Use the notes lines to add what your own setup needs.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with USDA FSIS and eXtension.
For more in this area, see the farm money and loan guides. Between chores, farm.FM has farm humor, including Ranch Meat Processing Waiting List So Long Steer Is Advised to Make Retirement Plans, and agribusiness farm stories.