Farms Warn of Fallout From Immigration Crackdown

Immigrant workers are essential to Minnesota's food processing industry, readers say

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Readers respond to a recent article highlighting how farms and food processing plants in Minnesota rely heavily on immigrant labor, warning that an immigration crackdown could cripple these industries. They point to the vital role immigrant workers play in producing popular foods like chicken wings, turkeys, and cheese.

Why it matters

Minnesota's food processing industry, a major economic driver in the state, is deeply dependent on immigrant labor. Any policies that restrict immigration or target immigrant workers could have severe consequences for these businesses and the broader agricultural economy.

The details

Readers note that food processing plants in Stearns, Kandiyohi, and other Minnesota counties rely on immigrant workers to prepare turkeys, process cheese, pluck chickens, and perform other essential tasks. They argue these plants "would not be in business" without the labor provided by immigrant workers.

  • The article the readers are responding to was published on February 16, 2026.

The players

Emma Nelson

A reporter who co-authored the original article about the impact of immigration crackdowns on Minnesota farms.

Trey Mewes

A reporter who co-authored the original article about the impact of immigration crackdowns on Minnesota farms.

Jennie-O

A turkey processing plant in Willmar, Minnesota that employs many immigrant workers.

Kraft

A cheese processing plant in Albany, Minnesota that employs many immigrant workers.

Pilgrim's Pride

A chicken processing plant in Cold Spring, Minnesota that employs many immigrant workers.

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The takeaway

This response highlights the vital role immigrant labor plays in Minnesota's food processing industry, which could be severely disrupted by any immigration crackdowns or restrictions. It underscores how deeply dependent these businesses are on immigrant workers and the potential economic fallout if that labor supply is cut off.