PETALUMA, Calif. – An upscale meat purveyor announced plans to buy out Rancho Feeding Corp., according to a Los Angeles Timesreport.

Petaluma, Calif.-based Rancho Feeding recently recalled approximately 8.7 million lbs. of meat products that were processed from diseased and "unsound" animals without federal inspection, according to the US Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service. No illnesses have been reported in connection with the products, but FSIS has been investigating the company on concerns Rancho Feeding has been producing meat products without federal inspection. The investigation will continue despite the sale, according to the
Los Angeles Timesreport.

David Evans, CEO of Marin Sun Farms in Point Reyes Station, Calif., said Rancho Feeding was crucial to the network of meat producers who fill a niche market for locally produced, specialty meats. Marin Sun Farms specializes in pasture-raised beef, poultry, pork and lamb. The company advocates sustainable farming practices and locally sourced food.