How it Works: From Ranch to Table, Step by Step
Here’s how ranchers and farmers can legally cut, pack, and sell their own meat under the USDA retail exemption
and expand their reach with SNAP/EBT.
Cut and Pack Meat Under the Retail Exemption
With the carcasses or sub-primals on your farm, you are legally allowed to:
- Cut into steaks, roasts, and chops.
- Grind into hamburger.
- Wrap, package, and label.
- Freeze and store.
This is exactly what supermarkets do - except now you can do it on your farm.
Sell Direct to Every Household
Open your farm store and apply for SNAP/EBT retailer status.
With approval, you can:
- Sell directly to consumers in your community.
- Accept EBT cards alongside cash and credit.
- Provide fresh, local food to families who rely on federal food assistance.
- “EBT authorization gives your farm market full federal recognition.”
Expand Your Reach Without Breaking the Rules
Within the exemption, you can also:
- Deliver to families through subscription boxes or CSA models.
- Sell limited quantities to restaurants, schools, or institutions (≤25% of total sales, within FSIS dollar thresholds).
- Partner with other farmers to share distribution routes and reduce costs.
Highlight Box:
✔ Keep at least 75% of sales direct-to-consumer.
✔ Stay under FSIS dollar limits to remain exempt.
The Model at a Glance
- USDA Facility → Farm Butcher Shop → Farm Market + EBT → Local Families & Restaurants.
This streamlined system keeps the value on the farm, not in corporate hands.
Ready to Put This Model to Work?
It’s not theory - it’s USDA federal law.
Ranchers and farmers across the country can use this pathway to protect their independence, strengthen their communities, and build a new future for American food.