A grass-fed goat business can be a challenging yet satisfying venture if you're interested in creating a product that provides a healthy meat alternative for consumers. Grass-fed meat businesses tend to be on the smaller scale and give more attention to the pasturing and feeding of their animals than industrial producers. New goat meat producers who can clear hurdles, such as start-up costs and state and federal regulations, can create a sustainable business.
Instructions
1. Apply for business licenses with your state and local agencies. Register your business and business name with the Secretary of State. Contact the IRS to set-up an Employer Identification Number (EIN) if you plan on hiring employees or operating as a corporation or partnership.
2. Contact your state's Department of Agriculture regarding requirements and fees for certification as a grass-fed organic goat meat supplier. If you plan to sell goat meat across state lines, contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture regarding the certification process.
3. Maintain a record keeping system for certification purposes. Your records should document every aspect of your grass-fed goat meat business, including where you purchase your goats and verification that they have been provided with organic feed from at least their third trimester of gestation.
4. Purchase organic feed from a reputable supplier. Keep records of all support materials and invoices demonstrating that the grass feed was organically grown.
5. Maintain detailed records of medical care attesting to the fact that none of your goats are treated with antibiotics.
6. Find a slaughterhouse and butcher in your area that can organically process your goat meat without bringing it into contact with non-grass-fed meats. Contact mobile organic butchers, if possible. These operations are designed to meet small business needs and to lower the stress animals experience during transportation.
7. Develop markets for your grass-fed goat meat products. Determine whether you will sell to a community supported agriculture (CSA) program, directly to customers, independent butchers, restaurants or meat distributors. Make your decision by weighing the time spent making sales directly against the lower prices gained by using middlemen.
8. Brand your grass-fed goat meat products. Communicate with your customers or on your labels about what makes your grass-fed goat meat unique, such as some special features about your farm or the individual care you give your goats.
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