A $23 million expansion of Premium Standard Farms’ (PSF) processing facilities at Milan, MO, was completed in late April, increasing the daily processing capacity by 35% and adding 75 jobs.

The project included new processing and cooler space, an upgraded and expanded wastewater treatment system and improved working conditions for employees. It is the first physical expansion of the plant since it opened in the fall of 1994.

The additional capacity will be supplied in part by a newly formed cooperative of independent pork producers in northeast Missouri. NEMO Family Pork is a group of a dozen producers who will raise hogs according to PSF’s Processed Verified Program (PVP) standards.

PVP is a USDA program that assesses quality management processes including traceability through comprehensive documentation. This program provides assurances PSF’s customers are receiving safe, wholesome pork products.

PSF was acquired by Smithfield Foods of Smithfield, VA, in early May.