Establishments have the option to apply for Federal or State inspection. Under the agreement, a State's program
must enforce requirements "at least equal to" those imposed under the Federal Meat and Poultry Products Inspection
Acts. However, product produced under State inspection is limited to intrastate commerce. FSIS provides up to 50%
of the State's operating funds, as well as training and other assistance.
"At Least Equal to" Guidelines for State Meat and Poultry Cooperative Inspection Programs (Jul 14, 2008; PDF Only)
These guidelines are designed to provide information to State Cooperative Inspection Programs on the criteria that FSIS uses
to make its annual determination of whether State Meat and Poultry Inspection (MPI) Programs are "at least equal"
to the Federal inspection program.
Reviews of State Programs FSIS information about comprehensive reviews of State meat and poultry inspection programs.
Listing of Participating States The list of the State meat and poultry inspection programs currently operating appears here.
Listing of States without Inspection Programs List of States which have given up their meat or poultry inspection programs or both. The USDA assumed the
inspection function of these plants in addition to plants already under USDA inspection.
Guidance for State & Local Agencies FSIS provides guidance to State and local government agencies on the use of science-driven, risk-based approaches to
the control of foodborne hazards.
