A handful of companies control the majority of beef, pork and poultry processing nationwide. The Biden Administration blames a lack of competition, saying it hurts farmers and consumers. Veteran economist Steve Meyer disagrees. “They’re pointing to higher prices and saying this is evidence of concentration and it’s not,” said veteran economist Steve Meyer. “The higher prices are due to the excellent demand we’ve had over the last couple years. They’re finding something that conveniently scores political points.” Meyer, who is a consulting economist for the National Pork Producers Council, says packer capacity is currently growing for the swine industry. That includes a proposed packing facility in Sioux Falls and expanded production at facilities in Iowa and Nebraska if sufficient labor is available. “Is this a good use of taxpayer money? I’m skeptical.”
