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Iowa meat lockers now eligible to sell into other states
Remsen Processing, Remsen, Iowa (Photo credit: Dennis Morrice)The Iowa Department of Agriculture has reached an agreement with USDA that will allow eligible state-inspected butcher shops and meat lockers to sell their products across state lines.
The agreement lifts the rule that said only federally inspected facilities could sell into other states.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the important role that local community meat lockers play in the food supply chain,” says Iowa ag secretary Mike Naig. “I am excited for these meat processors to have the opportunity to grow their businesses, move more products and access new markets. It also gives consumers more access to Iowa-raised and processed meat.”
Iowa is the seventh state to enter into a Cooperative Interstate Shipment (CIS) agreement with USDA. The other states are Indiana, Maine, Missouri, North Dakota, Ohio and Wisconsin.
Naig says meat processors who are interested in applying for the CIS program should visit the ag department’s web site or call 515-281-3338.
Dennis Morrice, KLEM Radio, Le Mars, Iowa contributed to his story.
