Yosemite Foods Hosts Junior Directors for Industry Tour
- California Pork
- 2 hours ago
- 3 min read
The California Pork Producers Association (CPPA) Junior Directors recently had the opportunity to participate in an industry tour at Yosemite Foods, Inc. in Stockton. This hands-on experience provided an in-depth look at one of California’s leading pork processing facilities and the important role it plays in bringing quality pork to diverse consumer markets.
The visit began with an overview of the company’s history—from its early beginnings in Modesto to its growth and expansion to the current facility in Stockton. Junior Directors toured the plant to observe how pork products are processed, packaged, and prepared for shipment to consumers across the region.
“Visiting Yosemite Foods was an eye-opening experience,” shared Lillie Benafield, 2nd Year Junior Director. “I never realized how much care and precision goes into every step. It really gave me a new appreciation for the work behind quality meat production. My favorite part was learning how they maintain such high standards of safety and efficiency throughout the entire process. That keeps everything running smoothly.”
Throughout the tour, participants learned how Yosemite Foods serves its primary customer base in Hispanic and Asian markets, tailoring its products to meet cultural preferences and demand. They also gained insight into the technology and equipment used to ensure quality and worker safety.
“I’ve been butchering with custom butchers in my area for about five years, and it was really eye-opening to see how large Yosemite Foods’ operation is and how efficient their process was,” said Weston Merriman, 1st Year Junior Director. “What really fascinated me was how their band saws had lasers to line up the primals to reduce the amount of injuries for their workers. I would like to thank Yosemite Foods for allowing us to tour their facility.”
Junior Directors also discussed regulatory impacts on the industry and explored future career opportunities within pork production and processing. The tour allowed them to connect classroom and farm experience to the broader food supply chain—an experience that left a strong impression.
“Attending the tour at Yosemite Foods provided a great opportunity for myself and the rest of the junior board,” noted Adeline Pombo, 2nd Year Junior Director. “We got to see firsthand the processing side of the pork industry, which is something most of us had never really gotten to experience before!”
For many, seeing the process from farm to table deepened their respect for the professionals who ensure food safety and quality every day. “Visiting Yosemite Foods—specifically experiencing the processing firsthand—was eye-opening!” said Cooper Dougherty, 2nd Year Junior Director. “Their blend of efficiency, hygiene, and spot-on standards truly sets the bar for the food industry. Seeing how our product gets from farm to table in such a precise manner is something I’ll never forget.”
The CPPA Junior Directors left the tour with a stronger understanding of California’s pork industry and a renewed appreciation for the work that goes into feeding consumers around the world.
The California Pork Producers Association extends a sincere thank you to Yosemite Foods, Inc. for opening their doors, to Chance Reeder, Plant Superintendent, for his time and expertise during the tour, and to the Lau family for their continued support of the association and its youth programs.
