A significant development in the beef processing industry is underway in eastern Missouri, with plans for a large-scale beef processing plant progressing smoothly. The facility, named America’s Heartland Packing, is on track to begin cattle contracting later this year, gearing up for its official opening in January 2025, as reported by Brownfield Ag News.
Steve Van Lannen, President of American Foods Group, shared details about the $800-million project, which spans 19 acres in Warren County, Mo.
The plant, whose construction commenced in late 2022, is strategically located to source cows, bulls, and fed cattle from within a 500-mile radius. Initially, the Green Bay, Wis.-based American Foods Group plans to process between 800 and 1,200 head of cattle daily in the initial months following its launch.
The report further highlights that livestock producers will have multiple avenues to market their cattle. These include regional auctions, direct sales, and an on-site buying station at the plant. The beef products processed at America’s Heartland Packing are set to be distributed to various U.S. foodservice outlets, retail chains, and export customers across 38 countries.
American Foods Group, known for its meat processing operations across five U.S. states, is set to add this Missouri plant to its portfolio, marking a significant expansion in its processing capabilities.
