April 27th, 2011
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Author: New federal rules for meat inspections approved last week could boost Wisconsin’s already sizable meat processing industry.
The rules, long sought after by agricultural and food industry interests, will allow more small meat processing plants (25 or fewer employees) to ship their products across state line.
Currently, such “interstate commerce” requires inspection by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. But under the new rules, state inspectors can confer the same certification – and the same USDA mark of approval – as long as they hold the meat processors to the same federal standards.
The rules have been in the works since Congress called for them in 2008.
Gov. Scott Walker’s proposed 2011-13 budget authorizes the state to hire new meat inspectors “to ensure food safety and support business growth.”
According to the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, the budget provides funding for five new meat inspectors, and five more are expected to be hired during the coming biennium using a federal grant.
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