Nevada has officially joined the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s State Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) Program, marking a major step forward for local meat processing capacity, food safety oversight, and small-plant market access across the state.
The announcement came this week from U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins, who confirmed that Nevada met USDA’s rigorous “at least equal to” food safety standards required for MPI approval. With this move, Nevada becomes the 30th state to operate a state-level inspection program in partnership with USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS).
Secretary Rollins said the addition strengthens the resiliency and competitiveness of the U.S. beef industry.
“We are strengthening the backbone of America’s food system by forging true partnerships with states and empowering local producers,” she said. “Today’s action builds on our commitment to deliver clear, accountable food safety standards and support small businesses—while delivering safe food to families and communities.”
Governor Joe Lombardo said the new program will increase processing options for cattle producers across Nevada, reduce bottlenecks, and help keep more food dollars local.
“The Nevada State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program will significantly expand our local meat processing capacity, strengthen the supply chain, bolster Nevada’s agricultural economy and ensure greater access to safe, locally produced food,” Lombardo said.
More Opportunities for Small and Very Small Processors
Nationwide, more than 1,500 small processors operate under state inspection programs. These facilities can sell meat products within state borders while operating under standards equivalent to federal inspection.
With Nevada’s entry into the program, more producers will gain:
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Access to inspected local processing capacity
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A clearer pathway to market for direct-to-consumer and retail sales
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Improved food safety support and oversight
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Opportunities to build value locally instead of relying solely on out-of-state plants
FSIS will continue working closely with the Nevada Department of Agriculture to ensure consistent oversight, technical support, and seamless implementation.
Federal Support Continues to Grow
In 2025, USDA dedicated $14.5 million to help states operate and strengthen their inspection programs. The 2026 federal budget renews that commitment, allocating an additional $15.2 million to support inspection capacity and infrastructure.
USDA has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA), reinforcing collaboration between federal and state partners.
Part of a Larger USDA Livestock Strategy
The move is one piece of a broader effort to strengthen U.S. livestock systems. USDA has recently taken steps to expand access to large-animal veterinary services, prevent the spread of emerging diseases such as New World Screwworm, and invest in robust food-safety systems that safeguard the U.S. beef supply.
For Nevada’s beef sector, the MPI program marks a meaningful opportunity to increase processing options, improve market access, and build additional resilience into the state’s livestock economy.
