South Dakota has entered into the Cooperative Interstate Shipping Agreement which opens new market opportunities for the state’s producers. Under the CIS some State Inspected Meat Processors now will be able to ship their meat across state lines.South Dakota State Veterinarian Dr. Dustin Oedekoven says South Dakota is now the ninth state involved in the CIS program.

He says interested processors must contact the South Dakota Animal Industry Board in order to receive clearance to be able to ship meat across state lines.

Oedekoven says being involved with CIS should increase the diversity in the supply chain to offer more options to consumers.

Oedekoven says meat that’s been inspected at the state level in South Dakota is equal to or better than that receiving federal meat inspection approval.

Oedekoven says CIS gives meat processors and producers another pathway for getting South Dakota products to market.