If you know me, then you know I don’t do anything half-cocked. When I’m in, I’m all in. That’s more evident this time of year than perhaps any other time.
In 2020, when I realized there was an egregious gap in the supply chain when it comes to meat processing at the local and state level, I decided to do something about it. That drove me to open F1Meat Co. in 2023, a full-service meat processing operation to serve local ranchers and — just as importantly — the 28 county fairs within the region.
Since then, I’ve been spending each December through March fully entrenched in the fairs throughout Central Florida, scrambling to meet the need for local processors. That’s the word to focus on here: scrambling.
When I first waded into this scene, I already knew there was a desperate need for local processors. Years later, the demand is flooding not only our operation, but also the other facilities across the state.
I have my crews working six days a week for 10 hours a day to process youth fair animals. Don’t get me wrong, booming business is a great problem to have, but we can only do so much in a day. This can lead to longer wait times for customers, which then introduces the possibility for upset customers.
Even with F1 Meat running at full capacity, our region still needs more processing facilities. It takes a special skillset and capital to build and staff a facility. Don’t forget it takes special knowledge of humane handling, proper nutrition, and ethical processing practices, too.
I jumped into the fight, but we still need more warriors to shift the tide. That’s why recognition of the demand — as well as those currently striving to meet it — is important to highlight along with the impressive educational experiences the fairs offer students.
When most people think of the youth fairs, they think of kids in their blue FFA jackets working the ring. But it takes the support of all participants in the fair community to pull off a successful fair, and that includes those who take on the animals once the fair is over.