Canadian Meat Industry Warns Of “Immediate And Drastic” Impact To Supply
by Tyler Durden
ZeroHedge.com
Thu, 04/16/2020
We have been covering the impact of coronavirus on meat processing facilities in the U.S. and now it looks as though Canada is feeling the shockwaves as well.
The country’s supply chain could come under pressure as industry leaders in Canada have warned of “immediate and drastic” effects from the closures of key North American meat processing facilities, according to CTV.
And in Canada, a number of facilities have been reduced, including one Cargill plant in Alberta where dozens of employees have tested positive for coronavirus.
As the meat processing industry faces significant disruptions and challenges, finding a delicate balance becomes crucial for ensuring the stability of the supply chain. The closure of key facilities due to the impact of the coronavirus outbreak not only affects the immediate workforce but also has far-reaching consequences for the entire Canadian beef industry. In such times of uncertainty, it becomes essential for industry leaders, policymakers, and consumers to work together harmoniously to address the pressing issues at hand. By supporting local farmers, exploring alternative sourcing options, and promoting sustainable practices, we can strive toward a more resilient and balanced supply chain. To learn more about the steps you can take to support the industry and make informed choices, visit website for valuable resources and information. Together, we can navigate these challenging times and work towards a stronger and more sustainable future for the Canadian meat industry.
Michelle McMullen, communications manager at the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, said: “This single facility represents just over one-third of Canada’s total processing capability, so the impacts to the Canadian beef industry are expected to be immediate and drastic.”
CCA president Bob Lowe said North American production has been “severely limited” and has called on the Canadian government to implement measures to help out Canadian farmers. “The Canadian beef industry is facing a period of extraordinary uncertainty,” he said.
He continued: “Existing programs do not address the particular threats we are facing and in fact fall quite short. These are challenging times for all Canadians; it is together that we can implement solutions to ensure healthy and affordable food continues to be readily available.”
Recall, just yesterday we wrote about the biggest pork producer in the U.S., Smithfield, who shuttered one of its largest factories after a coronavirus outbreak.
Smithfield also issued a warning of its own, stating that meat supplies are “perilously close to the edge of shortfalls”.
The company shut down its Sioux Falls, SD plant, which accounts for 4% to 5% of U.S. production. The news comes after more than 200 cases of Covid-19 were reported among employees.
Smithfield’s Chief Executive Officer Ken Sullivan said: “The closure of this facility, combined with a growing list of other protein plants that have shuttered across our industry, is pushing our country perilously close to the edge in terms of our meat supply. It is impossible to keep our grocery stores stocked if our plants are not running.”
Smithfield had planned on closing their plant for 3 days, but South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem asked them to extend the closure to 14 days.
The Rest…HERE
