$13M for Ontario's meat processing industry

The governments of Canada and Ontario are taking a significant step forward with an investment of  $13 million in the province's meat processing industry.

This initiative, part of the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP), aims to enhance the efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness of Ontario's free-standing meat processors and abattoirs.

With 151 projects on the horizon, this funding focuses on modernizing meat handling and processing equipment, adopting new technologies, and improving practices. These upgrades are crucial for increasing production capacity and maintaining Ontario's high standards for food safety.

Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lawrence MacAulay, highlights the increasing demand for high-quality Canadian meat products. This investment will enable the industry to leverage new technologies and equipment, meeting the growing market needs effectively.

Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Lisa Thompson, emphasizes the strategic nature of these investments. The initiative not only aims to boost meat processors' efficiency and capacity but also positions Ontario's meat processing sector for global competition and opens doors to new opportunities.

“The Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative is a prime example of how our government is making the right investments in the right places,” said Lisa Thompson, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “By supporting meat processors who are working to improve efficiencies and increase capacity, we’re ensuring that Ontario’s meat processing sector can compete globally and opening doors to new opportunities.”

From purchasing advanced packaging machines to enhancing refrigeration and processing equipment, the funded projects exemplify the initiative's focus on technological advancement and efficiency improvement.

This approach not only supports the industry's growth but also aligns with Ontario’s Grow Ontario Strategy, aiming for a substantial increase in food production and agriculture exports over the next decade.

With hundreds of provincially and federally licensed abattoirs and meat plants in Ontario, this initiative is a significant boost. It not only aims to increase production capacity but also prioritizes sustainability and innovation, essential for the long-term growth of Canada's agriculture and food industry.