extension economics report eer 211 january 2003 analysis of the meat processing industry in united states wilder n ferreira department agricultural and applied clemson university south carolina 29634 cooperative service offers its programs to people all ages regardless race color sex religion national origin or handicap is an equal opportunity employer cooperating with agriculture dan b smith director sc issued furtherance work home acts may 8 june 1914 table contents 1 abstract 02 2 overview 03 3 factors that influence demand growth prospects 14 4 cost structures 20 5 trends threats opportunities 25 6 bibliography 27 this study which analyzes major aspects segment within was divided into four topics first deals a number issues relating environment second presents some create third tries explain