USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) announced that $21.9 million was awarded to 111 grant projects in 37 states through the Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grant program.
The funding will help strengthen and develop new market opportunities for meat and poultry processors throughout the U.S., according to AMS.
“The Meat and Poultry Inspection Readiness Grants will help meat and poultry processors make necessary facility improvements, expand their businesses and strengthen the nation’s food supply chain,” said Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. “These grants are one part of USDA’s Meat and Poultry Supply Chain initiatives and will contribute to our efforts to transform our food system.”
AMS is also encouraging awardees and eligible participants in those initiatives to request assistance through the Meat and Poultry Processing Capacity Technical Assistance (MPPTA) Program, which connects participants to a nationwide network of resources and expertise.
For more information about MPPTA and the organizations involved or to initiate a request for assistance, visit AMS’ MPPTA webpage at www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/mppta.
