Slightly hidden just north of the big grain silos in Ruthven, Iowa, Ruthven Meat Processing is the best kept secret in Northwest Iowa.  But the secret has gotten out, and in 2018 we opened a 2nd retail store in Downtown Spirit Lake.

Our Locker Plant is located at the former building of the Farmers' Creamery. Our historical brick building that presently houses the hub of Ruthven Meat Processing was long ago converted to a meat locker. Originally meat was stored in locked boxes within the facility's large freezer...hence, the term 'meat locker'.

Although the traditional 'lockers' are gone from Ruthven Meat Processing, our custom processed meats still leave every day with satisfied customers. A line of quality fresh and award-winning smoked retail meats is available along with seasoning rubs, cheese, liquor, pop, and cold beer.  We are a one-stop shop and local favorite!

We accept cash, checks, debit, Mastercard, VISA, and Discover.
Gift certificates available in any amount (may not be used on liquor, wine or beer).

Award Winning Smoked Meats

Iowa Meat Processors Association

  • 2005 Reserved Grand Champion Beef Sticks

  • 2006 Reserved Grand Champion Beef Jerky

  • 2006 Reserved Grand Champion Dried Beef

  • 2011 Grand Champion Dried Beef

  • 2012 Reserved Grand Champion Beef Ring Bologna

  • 2012 Grand Champion Dried Beef

  • 2013 Reserve Champion Frankfurters/Wieners

  • 2013 Reserve Grand Champion Cured & Smoked Beef

  • 2013 Reserve Champion Jerky, Whole Muscle

  • 2014 Reserve Grand Champion Cured & Smoked Beef

  • 2014 Reserve Grand Champion Meat Snack Sticks

  • 2014 Reserve Champion Summer Sausage

  • 2015 Reserve Champion Jerky, Whole Muscle

  • 2015 Reserve Champion Flavored Snack Stick

  • 2016 Reserve Grand Champion Summer Sausage

  • 2017 Grand Champion Innovative Beef (Locker Trash)

Best of the Midwest (Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas)

  • 2012 Grand Champion Dried Beef

  • 2012 Reserve Grand Champion Beef Sticks

  • 2016 Reserve Grand Champion Flavored Bacon (Pepper Bacon)