Proposed Changes in Pork and Poultry Processing Rates: A Step Forward for the Meat Industry

The Meat Institute has recently endorsed the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) proposal to amend rules regarding pork and poultry processing rates. This initiative aims to boost production and innovation within the industry, ultimately easing prices for consumers while benefiting livestock and poultry producers alike.

“The Meat Institute has supported changes to line speed rules for pork and poultry processing through four administrations. We applaud the leadership of the Trump Administration in what we hope will be the final action to modernize FSIS rules,” stated Julie Anna Potts, president and CEO of the Meat Institute. Potts emphasized that such regulatory changes would allow member companies to invest in operations, enhancing the overall processing sector and providing more affordable, nutritious food options for consumers.

The USDA announced these proposed updates on February 17, with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins highlighting the changes as essential for removing outdated bottlenecks in the food production process. This initiative aims to lower production costs and enhance the overall stability of the food system.

Details of the Proposed Rules

The proposed rules focus on two distinct areas: swine and poultry processing. These amendments will be open for public comment for 60 days following their publication in the Federal Register.

Background on Pork Slaughter Line Speeds

Line speeds in swine slaughter facilities can vary due to factors such as staffing levels, worker safety protocols, and food safety considerations. The FSIS inspectors maintain the authority to adjust line speeds, slowing or halting operations if necessary for regulatory compliance.

In September 2019, the FSIS implemented its final New Swine Inspection System (NSIS) rule, aimed at modernizing the inspection process. This new framework allows inspectors to prioritize food safety and animal welfare while fostering innovation within the industry. The NSIS is grounded in over 25 years of pilot programs, providing the FSIS with substantial insights into effective inspection strategies.

Under the new system, plant employees in swine slaughter establishments are tasked with manually sorting carcasses to remove defects prior to FSIS inspection, enhancing efficiency. Importantly, FSIS continues to inspect all live animals before slaughter and every carcass post-slaughter in all regulated facilities.

However, a court ruling concerning the Administrative Procedures Act led to the revocation of allowances for faster line speeds under the NSIS, requiring plants to revert to slower speeds as of June 30, 2021. In November 2021, the FSIS invited NSIS establishments to engage in a temporary trial of increased line speeds to collect data for potential rulemaking. A study conducted by the University of California, San Francisco, and released on January 10, 2025, reported no statistically significant links between increased line speeds and heightened worker safety risk.

[RELATED: USDA Proposes Updates To Line Speed Rules For Poultry, Pork Processors]