USDA Invests $60 Million to Support Small Meat and Poultry Plants
The USDA has announced a $60 million investment to support small and very small meat and poultry processing plants through the Small Processors Action Plan. This initiative aims to improve customer service, reduce regulatory burdens, and maintain strong food safety protections. The funding is part of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, which seeks to expand capacity, encourage competition, and enhance supply chain resiliency in the U.S. meat processing sector. Eligible applicants include for-profit and nonprofit organizations, producer-owned cooperatives, tribes, and tribal entities, with a focus on facilities primarily processing cattle.