Our story

South Chicago Packing is a 5th-generation family-owned business with a rich heritage beginning in the Chicago Stockyards over 120 years ago. 

What started as a meat-packing operation gradually became a high-end specialty fats business. Though we no longer pack meat, we appreciate our company’s rich, historic past which is reflected in our name and the quality of our products.

Follow South Chicago Packing through the years to see how we transformed into the purveyor of flavor-elevating animal fats we are today.

1896 - 1940s

We evolved from our founder, Michael Miniat’s first horse-drawn meat-peddling cart to running multiple sales routes in refrigerated trucks.

1950s-1960s

As the meat industry evolved, we adapted with it to provide expert butchery and meatpacking services.

1970s

The Miniat family acquired South Chicago Packing, solidifying our ties to the neighborhood and continuing Chicago’s long tradition of family-owned businesses, domestic manufacturing, and community.

1980s

Our company made a critical shift that is still reflected in The Miniat Family of Companies today by pioneering the cutting-edge sous vide cooking method.

TODAY

South Chicago Packing, part of The Miniat Family of Companies, is a premium cooking fats and oils company whose products are used and beloved by all levels of chefs and culinary creators. As we expand our product line and retail footprint, we continue to reinvest in our neighborhood and employees, creating jobs and contributing to the future of Chicago.