Overview

The Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Program ensures that meat and poultry products sold in Kansas are safe, wholesome, and accurately labeled. Inspection is required for many types of processing and sales activities. This page will help you determine what type of operation you have, what you can sell, and which licenses or inspections may be required.

If you have questions, please contact our Manhattan office at (785) 564-6776.

Where You Can Sell Products

Licensing & Renewal Information

Licensing Period

All Kansas meat and poultry licenses run on a calendar year (January 1 – December 31).

Renewal Timeline

• Renewal applications are mailed in November.

• Applications must be postmarked by January 15 to avoid late fees.

Fees

Annual fees for all Meat and Poultry license types are $25 per calendar year. Late fees will accrue after January 15th. See K.S.A. 65-6a34.

Inspection vs. Licensing

Inspection

• Required for slaughter and processing activities when products are intended for sale.

• Includes facility standards, sanitation, HACCP systems, labeling, and regular inspections.

Licensing

• Required for exempt activities, such as:

  • Retail sale of inspected products

  • Wholesale distribution of prepackaged inspected meat/poultry

  • Custom slaughter and processing

Some businesses require both licensing and inspection.

Getting Started: Steps for New Businesses

1. Identify what activities your business will perform.

2. Determine who your customers will be (consumer, wholesale, owner only, etc.).

3. Match your activities to the correct operation type.

4. Contact KDA for assistance and verification.

5. Complete and submit the correct application form(s).

6. Prepare your facility to meet necessary standards before inspection.

Related Statutes, Regulations, and Codes

Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act (K.S.A.)
Governing statutes for meat and poultry inspection in Kansas.
Link: Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Act (K.S.A.)

Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Regulations (K.A.R.)
Administrative regulations implementing inspection standards.
Link: Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Regulations (K.A.R.)

Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Code (KMPI Code)
Comprehensive rules, requirements, and guidance for inspected and exempt facilities.
Link: Kansas Meat and Poultry Inspection Code (KMPI Code)

Contact Us

Kansas Department of Agriculture – Meat and Poultry Inspection Program
1320 Research Park Drive, Manhattan, KS 66502
Phone: (785) 564-6776 Email: KDAMeatandPoulty@ks.gov

We encourage businesses to contact us with questions or for help determining the correct licensing or inspection requirements.