Paradise Locker Meats exists to support and serve patrons and families sustainably by processing meats from small family farms, raising awareness of local, natural food, and providing quality, wholesome products with dedication, integrity, and honesty.

Every effort is made to ensure animals are handled humanely with the utmost respect and care, recognizing that humane handling plays an integral role in meat quality. Paradise Locker is audited annually by three different outside organizations: Certified Humane, Animal Welfare, and USDA.

An apprenticeship at Paradise Locker entails learning about livestock nose-to-tail, including understanding every cut of the pig, cow, lamb, and goat through observation of processing and cutting by the Paradise team. Apprentices will delve into crafting value-added products in the curehouse, where a variety of hams and sausages are made for retail shops, restaurants, and markets nationwide. They will also learn about USDA guidelines, food safety protocols, packaging, shipping, and visit local farms to understand the farm-to-table process.

Mario and Teresa purchased the business in 1995, running the locker in Paradise while providing custom processing for local farmers and hunters. They also launched a retail side, offering various cuts of meat to local shoppers. Starting with a team of around 3-5 employees, they processed roughly 10 beef and 10 hogs weekly.

After a fire, Mario and Teresa relocated to Trimble, MO, rebuilding the business. In January 2003, they broke ground, reopening Paradise Locker in September of the same year. With the same crew, they expanded quickly with more capabilities in the new building.

Despite challenges, Mario and Teresa remained determined to continue their mission, supported by the local community and establishing strong relationships with clients locally and nationally. Currently, Paradise Locker Meats employs over 50 individuals and processes 350-400 local animals weekly. The business is now led by Lou Fantasma, along with his parents and brother, Nick.