There’s been so much buzz about the overhaul and new location for Chop-N-Block that it’s easy to skim over the basics, like what Chop-N-Block does, why we do it, what makes it the best custom meat processor, and what we bring to the community.
Those basics are important to talk about, especially since deer hunting season is ramping up.
Let me start by saying I’m a hunter myself, so I know how important it is for hunters to have a clean, professionally run outlet where they can take their game to be processed. That’s why we started this venture more than a decade ago. For our local folks, having that place right here in Polk County is rare.
So, what else makes us special? That’s easy.
No Limits
We’re a custom processor, which means we have the experience and versatility to handle anything you bring us. While deer is hands down the animal we process most for our customers, we also get plenty of wild hogs, antelope, elk, alligator and even bears.
Safety Inspections
Chop-N-Block is fully inspected by the USDA and FDACS to make sure we adhere to all applicable sanitation regulations. In fact, when the facility was in Winter Haven, we experienced several random inspections. Each time, we passed with flying colors. The inspector even told us our shop was the cleanest, most professionally run meat custom processing facility he’d been to! Those are the kind of rave reviews we strive for — regardless of whether you’re a customer, inspector, neighbor, you name it.
The Extra Mile
Oftentimes, facilities will process hunters’ orders together, so there’s no guarantee the product they pick up is meat from the actual animal they brought in. Fortunately, that’s not how Chop-N-Block does business. We process each customer’s meat individually. While it may take more steps, time, and effort, it’s the best way to provide an even safer experience. The assurance also serves as one more way we provide a unique experience.
Convenience
Hunters can drop off orders any time during normal business hours at the new Frostproof location. For added convenience, orders can also be dropped off at Hardee Ranch Supply at 1309 Highway 17 in Wauchula. We ask our customers to pick up their orders within 24 of notification to ensure we have the freezer space to efficiently accommodate all our other customers.
It’s important to know that the FWC imposed a new rule on deer hunters recently that requires them to log and report harvested deer. Chop N Block must have the harvest report number upon receiving a deer for processing.
Hunters have up to 24 hours to report a deer to the FWC by:
- Logging into or creating a customer account at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or by using the Fish|Hunt Florida mobile app, or
- Calling toll-free 888-HUNT-FLORIDA (888-486-8356), Option “7.”
This article is sponsored by Labor Solutions, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of Central Florida Ag News or of its advertisers.
BIO: Baxter Troutman is founder and chief executive officer of Labor Solutions, a staffing company with offices in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Arcadia, and Plant City. You also can visit his Dark Hammock Legacy Ranch online at www.DH-LR.com. A cattle rancher and citrus grower who served in the Florida House of Representatives, Troutman understands the challenges and concerns of today’s farmer.
