Researching the Cost-effectiveness of Building a State-licensed, Mobile Poultry Processing Facility as a Regional Farmers' Group

1999 Annual Report for FNC99-250

Project Type: Farmer/Rancher
Funds awarded in 1999: $14,967.00
Projected End Date: 12/31/2000
Region: North Central
State: Michigan
Project Coordinator:

Researching the Cost-effectiveness of Building a State-licensed, Mobile Poultry Processing Facility as a Regional Farmers' Group

Summary

Because pastured poultry requires minimal land, this enterprise creates possibilities for many small farmers to increase production and profitability.

Objectives: 1) To design and build a mobile, state-licensed poultry processing facility, 2) to research the cost-effectiveness of duplicating the facility and 3) to use the facility as a means of educating farmers, students and at-risk youth.

The basic unit is a van on a twin-axle bumper-style trailer. Poultry are slaughtered outside, scalded and plucked in the back of the unit and automatically moved to a processing room. This room consists of an eviscerating table, lung sink, ice water cleaning tank and cooling tanks. Feathers and entrails are composted on the producers' farms.

Results: The unit can handle up to 75 birds per hour. Seven producers used the unit to process 1500 birds. Minor improvements will include better floor drainage and a bagging system.