To find local chicken processing services, check online directories, local farms, or agricultural extension offices for recommendations in your area.
Finding reliable chicken processing services is crucial for backyard poultry owners and small-scale farmers. Whether you’re raising meat birds or need to process surplus roosters, this guide covers all options from DIY to professional facilities.
Local Chicken Processing Options
Several local options exist for getting chickens processed:
1. Amish/Mennonite Communities
Many Amish communities offer affordable poultry processing services. In Missouri, areas like Jamesport and Clark have Amish processors who handle small batches. These services typically charge $3-$5 per bird.
2. Custom Poultry Processors
Specialized facilities like NelsonShine Produce in Minnesota offer complete processing packages. Their services include:
- Butchering
- Plucking
- Packaging
- Optional cuts (halves, quarters, etc.)
3. Mobile Processing Units
Some states have mobile poultry processing units that travel to farms. Check with your local agricultural extension office for availability.
DIY Chicken Processing
Many beginners successfully process their own chickens with proper guidance. As one backyard farmer shared: “The first chicken I butchered was a Cornish X that went down on his legs. I printed out instructions, put on a BIG kettle of water, and used pruning shears.”
Key steps for DIY processing:
- Gather equipment (cones, sharp knives, scalding tank)
- Humanely dispatch the bird
- Scald and pluck feathers
- Eviscerate and clean
- Chill and package
For detailed instructions, see our guide on how to process your own chickens.
Legal Considerations
Processing regulations vary by state:
| Processing Type | Can Sell Meat? | Inspection Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Processing | No | No |
| State Inspected | Yes | Yes |
| USDA Inspected | Yes (nationwide) | Yes |
Finding Processors in Your Area
Use these resources to locate services:
- Local agricultural extension offices
- State department of agriculture websites
- Backyard chicken forums like BackyardChickens.com
- Farmers markets (ask vendors for recommendations)
Cost Comparison
Processing costs vary by service level:
- Basic processing: $3-$5 per bird
- Additional cuts: $1-$2 per bird
- Specialty packaging: $0.50-$1 per bag
- Mobile processing: $5-$8 per bird plus travel fees
Preparing Birds for Processing
Proper preparation ensures quality meat:
Feed Withdrawal
Withhold food 8-12 hours before processing to empty crops and digestive systems. Continue providing water.
Transportation
Transport birds in well-ventilated crates during cooler parts of the day. Avoid overcrowding to prevent stress and bruising.
Timing
Process meat birds at 8-10 weeks for Cornish Cross or 16-20 weeks for heritage breeds. Learn more about raising meat chickens for optimal results.
Alternative Options
For those with just a few birds:
Poultry Processing Co-ops
Some areas have cooperative processing where farmers share equipment and labor. Members typically pay annual fees plus per-bird charges.
Rental Facilities
A few entrepreneurs offer processing equipment rentals with optional guidance. One Missouri resident offers: “I’ll rent out my processing setup and for a bit extra, I’ll help show you the ropes.”
Ethical Considerations
Whether processing yourself or using a service, prioritize:
- Humane handling
- Clean facilities
- Proper chilling
- Safe packaging
Remember that processing is a natural part of raising meat birds. As one former vegetarian turned chicken farmer noted: “We all had to learn.. and it was uncomfortable and none of us enjoy it. Don’t think about it, just do it.”