WASHINGTON — On Nov. 25, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced that Nevada will be joining the USDA’s State Meat and Poultry Inspection Program, after meeting the department’s “at least equal to” food safety standard.
Nevada’s addition to the program diversifies local inspection capacity, food safety oversight, and boosts market access for small and very small processors, USDA said in a release.
“We are strengthening the backbone of America’s food system by forging true partnerships with states and empowering local producers,” Rollins 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.”
“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,” Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo said. “This initiative was a priority in my first term, and I look forward to seeing the positive impacts of this program and enjoying our Nevada-raised meat products.”
By joining the program, Nevada is now the 30th state with an approved MPI program, supporting more than 1,500 small processors nationwide with the benefit of state inspections, USDA noted. USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service will work closely with the Nevada Department of Agriculture and local stakeholders to ensure seamless implementation and continued trust in food safety standards.
In FY 2025, USDA committed $14.5 million to support state inspection programs, USDA added. In FY 2026, the department remains committed to state inspection programs and will be providing more than $15 million to increase inspection capacity.
These actions build on USDA’s dedication to a strong and vibrant livestock industry, the department said, adding that this also includes preventing the spread of diseases and ensuring that rural Americans have access to the necessary veterinary care for large animals.
