Mobile processing Unit
Virginia’s Own Mobile Processing Unit
An 1890 Capacity Building Grant from the USDA (2015-38821-24338) allowed Drs. O’Brien and Wildeus to design a mobile processing unit (MPU) for sheep and goats in collaboration with Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and Delaware State University. The customized unit was built by Cargo Trailer Services in Lansdale, PA in 2018.
About the MPU
The Mobile Processing Unit (MPU) is a 40-foot-long cargo trailer, outfitted and designed to harvest and fabricate small ruminant species under USDA inspection. It is operated by the MPU Coordinator and overseen by Drs. O’Brien and Wildeus.
The MPU has several priorities.
To increase meat processing capacity, especially for Virginia’s small-scale sheep and goat producers.
To provide meat processing education for community members, including small-scale producers and individuals looking towards careers in the meat industry.
To serve as a model, and offer support to other institutions that are interested in building and operating their own MPUs.
MPU Fact sheets and Resources
The Mobile Processing Unit Certification Program has been put on hold. The unit is now open for processing dates at VSU Randolph Farm. Hands-on training opportunities are also available. Please reach out to the Unit Coordinator to discuss availability. Keep in mind that space is limited. Check the VSU Cooperative Extension Calendar (https://www.ext.vsu.edu/calendar) for meat processing demonstrations, MPU tours, workshops and more.
Yields and loss of a lamb: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/APSC/apsc-203/apsc-203.html
Ritual slaughter: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/APSC/apsc-204/apsc-204.h, and wml
Steps of slaughter: https://www.pubs.ext.vt.edu/APSC/APSC-202/APSC-202.html
MPU Team
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Dr. Dahlia O'Brien
Professor/Extension Specialist
Small Ruminants
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Stephan Wildeus, Ph.D
Professor
Small Ruminant Research
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Davida Rimm-Kaufman
Small Ruminant Mobile Processing Unit Coordinator
(Main point of contact)
(804)-586-3683