Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture

Completed Competitive Grant

Co-location of industries with small livestock slaughter facilities

Project ID: 2003-M4

Abstract

This November 2003 study researched the possibilities for Iowa producers who are interested in specialized smaller-scale slaughter facilities and their potential, both for co-products and related industries.

Key Question: What is the potential for receiving premiums for coproduct streams coming from attribute meat markets such as organic, natural, etc.?

Findings: There are few co-product markets that exist for these attribute markets at this time. Additionally, because of the lower volume, disposal costs of coproducts is higher than traditional meat processing.

Lead investigator: Mary Holz-Clause, ISU Extension

Year of grant completion: 2004

This competitive grant project was part of the Leopold Center's Initiative.

Topics: Market research and feasibility studies, Supply networks