August 31, 2006

Small-scale meat processors in US hope for a piece of the export action

Small-scale meat processors in the US state of Wisconsin are hoping legislation which is currently limiting their ability to export beyond state lines would be changed.

The law, which has been in effect since 1967, cause local processors to lose out on substantial profits while larger processors reap in earnings from exports to foreign countries and those beyond state lines 

The disparity stemmed from the different inspection programmes both groups are subjected to.

While those exporting to foreign countries and outside state lines are inspected by the USDA, those that are only allowed to export within the state are inspected by state inspectors.

About 2,100 small meat establishments in Wisconsin use the state inspection system as they could not afford the higher costs of having a federal inspector on site every day. In the-state based inspections, inspectors are called only when necessary.

Wisconsin State Agriculture Secretary Rod Nilsestuen is calling on support to change the law, pointing out that a change would create a more uniform system and enhance food safety.