To supply federal assistance to south carolina to operate a cross utilization inspection program in order to assure the consumer an adequate supply of safe, wholesome, and properly labeled meat and…

The Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service awarded Clemson University a $585,000 Cooperative Agreement on October 1, 2025, to operate a cross-utilization inspection program assuring an adequate supply of safe, wholesome, and properly labeled meat and poultry products in South Carolina. The award falls under the Meat, Poultry, and Egg Products Inspection program (CFDA 10.477), which enforces federal food safety standards and labeling requirements across meat, poultry, and egg product plants shipping in interstate and international commerce. The period of performance runs through September 30, 2026, with work performed in South Carolina. Clemson University's Division of Research, the ultimate recipient, executes the inspection program as part of the state's delegated oversight role under the Federal Meat Inspection Act and Poultry Products Inspection Act. The program satisfies federal requirements that state cooperators maintain sanitation and operating standards for inspection facilities and equipment, with FSIS conducting an audit every three years to validate compliance with federal standards. Accounting records are subject to review by the Comptroller General and authorized representatives of the Secretary of Agriculture.

To supply federal assistance to south carolina to operate a cross utilization inspection program in order to assure the consumer an adequate supply of safe, wholesome, and properly labeled meat and poultry products.