Q: How many companies belong to AMI?
A: Approximately 1,100 companies are AMI members.

Q: When was AMI founded?
A: AMI was founded in Chicago in 1906 in anticipation of the Federal Meat Inspection Act.

Q: What are the benefits of membership?
A: Located in the nation’s Capitol, AMI keeps its fingers on the pulse of legislation, regulation and media activity that impacts the meat and poultry industry and provides rapid updates and analyses to its members to help them stay informed. In addition, AMI conducts scientific research through its Foundation designed to help meat and poultry companies improve their plants and their products. The Institute’s many meetings and educational seminars also provide excellent networking and information-sharing opportunities for members of the industry.
Members also receive valuable discounts on overnight mail, long distance service, insurance and more through AMI’s many affinity programs. A summary of benefits of membership is available.

Q: Is my company eligible to join AMI?
A: If your company is a packer or processor of animal proteins, supplies goods or services to the industry or has some involvement in the meat industry -- YES, your company is eligible to join AMI.

Q: Can I get a list of AMI member companies?
A: AMI does not sell or rent its membership list. However, the list is available to AMI Members. If you are a member of AMI and would like to request a list, please send your request to memberservices@meatami.com or call (202) 587-4242 and ask for the Member Services Department.

Q: How can AMI assist my company in increasing its market share?
A: There is no question that one of the keys to success in business in the next century may be found in the ability to market products beyond U.S. borders. AMI works hard on behalf of its members to keep them apprised of potential customers and to intervene when barriers are in place. Through AMI’s trade leads, AMI offers its members timely sales leads, and the opportunity to follow up on sales opportunities, both domestic and international, for meat and poultry products and suppliers of equipment and services. Membership includes a directory listing with contact info, links to your websites and is searchable by product codes that you determine. AMI also travels to International trade shows and distributes our member product directory on CD Rom for interested buyers.

Q: What if I need help with an inspector problem or in understanding the HACCP regulation?
A: The meat and poultry industry is one of the most heavily regulated U.S. industries. Therefore, AMI members particularly value the Institute’s regulatory services. The strength of AMI’s Regulatory Affairs team lies largely in its collective experience and education. Staffed by former regulatory and corporate officials, food science, marketing and trade experts, the Institute's regulatory team understands the industry's collective needs -- and the unique needs of individual businesses. Find out more about your AMI Team.

Q: Can AMI help me make friends with the media?
A: Public Affairs professional staff are available to help members manage crises. Among the services offered are general communications counsel, assistance in drafting news releases and advice in preparing for interviews and developing talking points. Combined with the AMI Risk Management Program, which offers a unique opportunity for AMI members to obtain product recall insurance coverage, AMI’s crisis management can help keep members keep covered in the event of a recall or other public relations emergency.

Q: How can I get more information about AMI?
A: The AMI Member Services team is available to assist you Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Eastern Daylight Time. Please call 202-587-4242, email us at member services@meatami.com, or fill out our contact form.