PSI-24 Meat and poultry processing workforce development program: Providing market access to Kentucky producers using a mobile processing unit.

Abstract There is a rising concern for the shortage of meat processing services to small-farm producers within the Southeast. Within Kentucky, there are only 26 meat processors offering approved USDA-inspected services to over 100 counties. To address this shortage, a collaborative multi-state Meat and Poultry Processing Workforce Development Program was established in 2021. A Mobile Processing Unit (MPU) was fitted to provide accessible and inspection-approved services to small farmers in Kentucky. The objective of this initiative was to, 1) allow producers the opportunity to raise, process and market several species of small livestock, including poultry, rabbits, freshwater prawns, and finfish and; 2) provide educational training for Facility Managers. The MPU has served 50 small livestock processors with target audiences including 4-H groups, FFA students, schools, and small-farm producers. From year 2021 to 2024, the MPU has hosted processing of 5,642 chickens, 551 turkeys, 200 quail, and 1,108 rabbits. Additionally, it facilitated processing of 25 kg of tilapia and 396 kgs of prawns. Recent project results from KSU include 303 participants across Kentucky, including certification of 22 new facility managers and 4 renewal certifications. Training encompassed operation of the MPU, safety protocols, equipment handling, and regulatory compliance. Since 2005, this effort has certified 347 facility managers around Kentucky. The MPU has served as a vital resource for small-scale, local, and underserved producers to process small animals ensuring food safety, traceability, and humane treatment. Current program efforts demonstrate this MPU has strengthened the capacity of producers and facility managers to operate effectively. Therefore, the MPU may provide a replicable model to strengthen small-scale meat processing infrastructure nationwide.