Minnesota Supports Small Meat Processors Growth

By Scout Nelson

Minnesota continues to face a growing challenge in local meat processing. Demand for processing services has far outpaced supply, causing delays and financial strain for producers. Contributing factors include industry consolidation, retiring business owners, and a shortage of skilled workers.

To tackle this issue, a dedicated group formed the Meat Processing Bottleneck Team. Supported by the University of Minnesota’s Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships (RSDP), the team began research in 2021 to understand the challenges small- and mid-scale processors face.

“Direct marketing builds relationships with consumers and strengthens the local food economy. When a farmer can’t process their livestock, it impacts both the farmer and the eater,” said Paul Sobocinski, one of the project leaders.

The team conducted 57 interviews with meat processors across Minnesota. The findings led to action steps, including creating an apprenticeship program to connect aspiring entrepreneurs—especially from immigrant communities—with experienced processors.

Partnering with organizations like the Latino Economic Development Center and African Development Center, the team organized community events, built trust, and helped develop workforce training programs. Today, two trade schools offer meat cutting courses, and several new processor-entrepreneur partnerships are in progress.

“Through everything, developing trusting relationships has been key to moving forward,” Sobocinski said.

The effort has received support from many groups, including the Minnesota Department of Agriculture, Farmers Union, Sustainable Farming Association, trade schools, and faith-based organizations.

Recently, the Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture awarded funding to the team to further economic and workforce development, including job training and immigrant community engagement.

“Challenges like this meat-processing bottleneck can’t be solved overnight or by one person or organization,” Sobocinski added. “But we make progress the more we collaborate and coordinate with each other.”

Photo Credits:gettyimages-luoman