Local Meat is Hot; Can You Make it Work?

The COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions across the food and agriculture supply chain, and it accelerated the trend of demand for local products, especially meat. Is it a viable option for your operation? Consider market potential, available price premiums and consumer connections in determining whether it’s worth the investment to create a local beef or pork supply chain starting at your operation. Consumers are likely to pay more for local meat, but small processing capacity was already stressed before the pandemic, and it represents a major hindrance to widespread local meat systems. In the end, balance between small and large processors will be key to the long-term viability of local meat sales. See what else you should know.