The Southwest Meat Association was founded in 1957 by a group of Texas meat packers who came together to form an organization that would unite packers/processors with the goal of promoting goodwill, friendship, education, legislation, and better labor relations within the meat industry. The association was formally incorporated as the Texas Independent Meat Packers Association, and has evolved through several names into the association it is today. SMA provides information and assistance to packer and processor members across the country, with a scope far exceeding that with which SMA was founded. While our industry operates in an unprecedented regulatory environment, it is increasingly important to establish links with companies of similar interests, and working together, influence positive public policy and promote business growth for the mutual benefit of all members.
Today, SMA assists member companies in 37 states nationwide.
Our Mission
SMA's mission is supporting U.S. processors and their suppliers through networking, advocacy, education, and regulatory expertise.
Vision Statement
SMA’s vision is to be the nation's leading food industry association whose members cultivate a culture of excellence through shared core values, enhancing opportunities for their long-term success.
Core Values
Family
Leadership
Integrity
Excellence
Credibility
Culture
Responsive
Family-oriented
Honest
Loyalty
Inclusive
Actions
Advocacy
Regulatory Support
Technical Assistance
Education
Networking
Information Services
Scholarship Fundraising
What Our Members Are Saying
“Southwest Meat Association provides us a comfort level when dealing with Federal Agencies. Their knowledge base is extensive and the caring and commitment for each member is exceptional. When you have an issue, they quickly help you with a solution. Their ability to reach out to the correct Agency person, anywhere in the country is a difference maker.”
–Ken Cable, Sysco Specialty Meat Group
“Over the years of working together, a meaningful partnership has developed between our company and SMA. We feel this partnership is critical in running a business today.”
–Mark Mar, Quality Sausage Company, Dallas, TX
“Membership in SMA has been invaluable to the success of this company.”
–David Ruff, Morrilton Packing Company
“SMA’s annual conventions are fantastic! The speakers are always quite informative and always current on the topics discussed.”
–Bobby Yarborough, Manda Fine Meats, Baton Rouge, LA
Meat Industry News: FSIS Fee Relief; USDA’s $50M Program; Farm Bill & Mexico Cattle Updates
bymeatpeople
Brittany Moore and Lacey Bates introduce episode 2 of Meat Industry News, a biweekly 10–15 minute segment of the Meat People podcast, and cover four key updates. FSIS extended temporary overtime and holiday inspection fee reductions for eligible small (30%) and very small (75%) federally inspected meat, poultry, and egg product establishments through September 30, 2027, or until funding runs out; overtime inspection applies to services outside regular hours, with rates near $90/hour and holiday rates about $106/hour, and relief requires submitting FSIS Form 5200-16. USDA announced the Stand Up Program (up to $50 million) to help states establish or expand state meat inspection programs in partnership with FSIS; state programs must meet standards at least equal to federal requirements, but sales are generally limited within the state unless using Cooperative Interstate Shipment. The Senate Ag Committee advanced the Farm Bill 12–11, including language directing USDA and USTR to find a WTO-compliant path to reestablish mandatory country-of-origin labeling for beef. Finally, cattle imports from Mexico resumed via Douglas, Arizona on Aug. 24 under a phased reopening after New World screwworm-related closures, with 580–850 head/day moving and heavier cattle (700–900 lbs), while Santa Teresa and Columbus, New Mexico remain closed and future reopening depends on disease risk and progress under the joint action plan.