The Arkansas State Meat Inspection Program provides inspection services for small and very small slaughter and processing establishments across the state. Operated under a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (USDA-FSIS), the program allows meat products inspected by the state to be sold within Arkansas.
Under this agreement, the Arkansas program must develop, administer, and enforce regulations that are “at least equal to” those established under the Federal Meat Inspection Act (FMIA). State inspectors—certified through USDA—conduct in-plant inspections and ensure compliance with food safety, labeling, and sanitation standards.
The program is part of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s broader effort to strengthen local food systems by supporting small processors and expanding access to locally sourced, high-quality meat products across the state.
Program Contact: Tillman Treat
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (501) 516-7946