A Look Behind Wisconsin’s Iconic Meats with the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors

Hailey Rose

August 13, 2024

As America’s Dairyland, cheese and all things dairy goodness are in our name. But we also pack a mean and meaty punch. In today’s special and savory blog, we’re taking a never-before-seen look behind Wisconsin’s iconic meats. Teaming up with the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors, a.k.a WAMP,  you’re in for a delicious discovery. Tag along as we dig into the meaty history, services, specialties, and more!

A Meaty History

Photo Credit: Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors

Grab your silverware and let’s dig into the meaty history of the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors. WAMP’s roots reach back to the 1930s when it began in a flurry. At the time, processing plants in other regions of the country came up with a revolutionary idea–frozen food lockers. 

As the idea flew into Wisconsin, these frozen food lockers became the foundation of WAMP, established in 1939. Because of one dedicated professor, and his efforts to investigate the meat industry, the Wisconsin Frozen Food Locker Association was born. As time ensued, advancements were made in at-home technology; however, home freezers didn’t stop this meaty and mighty association. 

By 1945, the association changed its name to the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors. Since, its greater mission is to benefit both meat processing firms and businesses scattered across Wisconsin. To date, WAMP continues to grow, with members from Alaska to Michigan. WAMP’s lobbyist, alongside members, strive to support, develop, and expand the state’s meat industry. 

Services & Specialties 

Photo Credit: Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors

Today, thanks to WAMP, Wisconsin’s meat industry is thriving. Working with meat processors across the state, they provide a wide range of services including but not limited to retail, wholesale, custom processing, and wild game processing. There’s a service for all businesses and customers.

In addition to their expert services, WAMP’s operators offer signature specialties you’ll love. Select from local, hand-crafted, and specialty-cut meats. Not to mention, the wide variety of further processed products and unique flavors to choose from, including bratwurst, marinated chicken breast, bacon, and even patties with delicious inclusions! All of these specialty products, plus more, are often locally sourced and affordable, so Wisconsinites can savor the best of the best. 

Find Meat Near You!

Photo Credit: Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors

Are you hungry yet? Find a meat shop near you with the Wisconsin Meat Map, created in partnership with Discover Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Meat Map is brought to you by the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors and represents over 125 processor members throughout the state.  

Shop your local meat market all year round. Can’t get enough of Wisconsin’s iconic meats? Check out WAMP’s annual convention and trade show, happening every April. Attend workshops, sessions, or even the Wisconsin Specialty Cured Meat Championships! Explore more events here.

Don’t let your delicious discovery stop here! Go out and explore Wisconsin’s iconic meats with the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors. Want to learn more about the local meat markets? Or do you have a retail establishment in Wisconsin? Sign up today to receive email communications at www.wi-amp.com

Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.

You May Also Like…