Smithfield Foods Inc. announced today the full acquisition of the leading U.S. pre-rigor sausage producer and processor Kansas City Sausage Co. LLC. In 2013, Smithfield formed a 50/50 joint venture with the company.

"This latest acquisition will build on the success of our growing packaged meats business and brands. It simultaneously enhances our vertically integrated supply chain, further harmonizing our live production and processing capabilities," said Kenneth Sullivan, president and chief executive officer of Smithfield Foods. "With this transaction, we will strengthen our focus on branded pre-rigor pork products and leverage Smithfield's expansive sales and distribution network to bring these premium offerings to more consumers."

Joseph Sebring, president of Smithfield’s packaged meats division the acquisition further supports the growth of several key packaged meats categories, including breakfast and fresh dinner sausage, as well as Italian-style meal solutions like meatballs. "Kansas City Sausage produces some of Smithfield Foods' fastest-growing products, including Smithfield Breakfast Sausage, Smithfield Craft Collection Seasonal Brats and Carando Meatballs. In fact, Carando currently boasts the fastest-selling fresh meatballs in the U.S."

Kansas City Sausage has operations in Des Moines, Iowa, and Kansas City, Mo. In Des Moines, the company produces premium raw materials for sausage as well as value-added products, including boneless hams. The Kansas City plant is the newest and most modern sausage processing facility in the U.S. and is designed for optimum efficiency to provide retail and foodservice customers with the highest-quality products.