Meat Processing and Marketing Workshop

This Fall, the Cornell Agricultural Marketing Research Program will offer workshops in 5 locations around Eastern NY on meat processing and marketing topics. The series is possible through funding from the Northeast Risk Management Education program. Consumer demand for locally raised meats, sourced directly from the farm, spiked in 2020 as consumers faced pandemic-induced grocery store shortages and price increases. Market demand remains strong as consumers appreciate the quality and value when they purchase meat from local farms. While new demand presents an opportunity for NY’s livestock farmers, selling meat directly to consumers also presents challenges and risks. This workshop teaches producers how to avoid and address common challenges they encounter with meat processing and direct-to-consumer meat marketing. The Fall presentation series coincides with the announcement of a new Meat Processor Directory, an addition to the MeatSuite.com directory of bulk meat farm products. The workshops will address a variety of topics, including: • Evaluating Livestock for Ideal Harvest Timing • Livestock Handling & Delivery for Meat Quality • How to Work with Your Processor & Navigate Difficult Situations • Carcass Math Break-Down & Pricing • How Much Value does Value-added Add? • Creating Consumer and Processor-friendly Bulk Meat Sales • An introduction to MeatSuite.com, the Cornell Meat Price Calculator, and the forthcoming Meat Processor Directory. Lunch will be Included.