USDA Processing vs. Custom Processing
Whether you’re raising livestock for your family’s freezer or selling meat to customers, choosing the right type of meat processing is an important decision. One of the most common questions we receive at Easternview Farms is the difference between USDA-inspected processing and custom processing.
While both methods produce high-quality meat, the intended use of the finished product determines which option you need. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right processing service and avoid costly mistakes.
TL;DR: USDA VS Custom Processing
- USDA processing allows meat to be sold to the public.
- Custom processing is for personal use only.
- Both options offer custom cutting instructions.
- Easternview Farms provides both USDA-inspected and custom processing.
- Our team can help determine which option best fits your needs.
What Is Custom Meat Processing?
Custom meat processing is designed for livestock owners who want meat processed for themselves, their families, or individuals who already own a share of the animal before processing.
During custom processing, your animal is cut and packaged according to your preferences. You can request steaks, roasts, ground beef, specialty cuts, and value-added products like bacon, bratwurst, hot dogs, ham, jerky, and summer sausage.
The important distinction is that custom processed meat cannot legally be resold because it is not inspected by a USDA inspector during processing.
For many families purchasing a whole, half, or quarter beef, custom processing is the perfect solution.
What Is USDA-Inspected Processing?
USDA-inspected processing follows federal inspection requirements that allow the finished meat to be sold commercially.
A USDA inspector oversees the inspection process, ensuring the animal and finished product meet federal food safety standards. Once approved, the meat receives the proper USDA markings, making it legal to sell to restaurants, grocery stores, farmers markets, or individual customers.
If you plan to sell beef, pork, lamb, or goat after processing, USDA processing is typically required.
Which Option Do I Need?
The answer depends entirely on what you plan to do with the finished meat.
If you’re filling your own freezer or splitting an animal with family members who purchased their share beforehand, custom processing is generally the appropriate choice.
If you intend to sell individual cuts of meat or processed products to the public, you’ll need USDA-inspected processing.
If you’re unsure which option applies to your situation, our team is happy to explain the requirements before your processing date.
Do I Still Get to Choose My Cuts?
Yes. Whether you choose USDA or custom processing, you’ll still have the opportunity to customize many aspects of your order.
Easternview Farms works directly with every customer to discuss cutting instructions and processing preferences. From steak thickness and roast sizes to specialty products like sausage and jerky, we’ll prepare your order according to your selections.
Why Is It Important to Choose the Right Type of Processing?
Selecting the correct processing option helps ensure your meat can be used exactly as you intend.
Choosing custom processing when you plan to sell meat can create legal issues, while selecting USDA processing ensures your products meet the requirements for public sale.
Our goal is to help every customer understand the differences before processing begins so there are no surprises later.
Why Choose Easternview Farms?
Easternview Farms offers both USDA-inspected and custom meat processing, giving customers the flexibility to choose the option that best meets their needs. As a small processing facility, we emphasize quality cutting, careful packaging, and personalized service. We spend one-on-one time with every customer to make sure we understand exactly how they want their animal processed.
Whether you’re filling your family’s freezer or preparing meat for retail sale, our experienced team is committed to delivering quality you can trust.
If you’d like to learn more about USDA or custom processing, contact Easternview Farms today to discuss your livestock and processing options.
Frequently Asked Questions.
Easternview Farms offers custom and USDA-inspected meat processing with personalized cutting, quality packaging, and exceptional customer service. From farm-raised beef to specialty products, we’re committed to providing safe, professional processing you can trust. Browse our frequently asked questions for additional information, or contact our team if you don’t see your question listed.
Both USDA and custom processing follow proper food safety procedures. The primary difference is that USDA processing includes inspection by a USDA inspector, allowing the meat to be legally sold to the public.
Yes. Whether you choose USDA-inspected or custom processing, you can request your preferred cuts, packaging, and many specialty products.
It depends on what you plan to do with the finished meat. If it's for your family's freezer, custom processing is usually the right choice. If you plan to sell the meat, USDA-inspected processing is generally required. Our team is happy to discuss your situation and recommend the appropriate option.
