(Salem, OR) – In a significant move to bolster the local meat supply, the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) announced an $8.2 million investment on Wednesday. This funding aims to support locally owned slaughterhouses and meat processors, ensuring that more meat remains within the state.
The investment will benefit 14 Oregon-based meat processors. These processors are either already inspected by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or will come under Oregon’s state inspection program, which was initiated in 2022. The state inspection program was established following a $9 million allocation from the state Legislature, after the USDA granted the ODA the authority to set up its own inspection program, provided it adhered to federal inspection standards.
The initiative reflects Oregon’s commitment to enhancing local food security and supporting local businesses. By investing in local meat processors, the state aims to reduce reliance on external sources, ensuring a steady supply of meat for Oregon residents. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy, providing more opportunities for local farmers and processors.
Oregon’s Agriculture Department continues to focus on meeting federal inspection requirements to maintain high standards of food safety and quality. The $8.2 million investment is part of the state’s broader efforts to develop a robust and sustainable agricultural sector.
As this program progresses, it is anticipated that more local meat processors will come under the state’s inspection program, further strengthening Oregon’s local meat supply chain. The state’s initiative is a crucial step towards achieving greater food sovereignty and economic resilience for its agricultural sector.
