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Fulton man says fishy idea could save Illinois big bucks

Mike Schafer, owner of Schafer Fisheries, said his carp would be a perfect option for state penitentiaries who need to supply decent food to their prisoners at ...

Mike Schafer, owner of Schafer Fisheries, said his carp would be a perfect option for state penitentiaries who need to supply decent food to their prisoners at a lower cost.

"The nutritional value is very high in carp products," Schafer said. "With protein being so expensive in beef and pork and chicken in today's world, I think fish has a bright opportunity."

Schafer hand makes hot dogs and bologna out of the carp they sell at Schafer's Fisheries in Fulton, Illinois. He said it tastes pretty similar to regular hot dogs and bologna and is a lot cheaper.

"We have a machine that de-bones the fish, and it's like a hamburger when it comes out of the machine," Schafer said. "Took us about three years to come up with the right recipe, texture and taste."

Schafer said he tried to get his product endorsed by previous Illinois administrations but was denied.

Now, he said he is trying to have his carp products endorsed by Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner and supported in prisons across the state.

"I think it's a win-win situation for the state of Illinois and I think we could save the taxpayers a lot of money over other protein sources to feed the prisoners," said Schafer.

It's a big incentive for Gov. Rauner who needs to trim $6 billion from the Illinois budget.

Schaefer said his plan has been inspected and approved by the FDA.

To see what else Schafer's Fisheries offers, click here.

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