A southeastern Manitoba pork processing plant has picked up a federal loan for upgrades that could allow it to upgrade to federal inspection.
Country Meat and Sausage, based at Blumenort, about 10 km north of Steinbach, will get $567,500 from the federal Slaughter Improvement Program.
The family-run company, which processes hogs for distribution throughout Winnipeg and southern Manitoba, plans to use the funds to cut costs, buy equipment and upgrade its facilities to meet federal requirements.
The loan is also expected to allow Country Meat and Sausage to expand production of processed meats, meals and ready-to-eat food lines it’s already developed.
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“This investment will allow Country Meat and Sausage to expand their production and pursue niche markets, giving livestock farmers more opportunities boost their bottom line,” federal public safety minister and area MP Vic Toews said Friday in the government’s release.
The company has operated in the province’s livestock-rich southeast for about 45 years and also operates a “full-service” delicatessen in nearby Steinbach.
Originally budgeted to provide up to $50 million in loans, the federal government’s Slaughter Improvement Program is meant to back “sound business plans aimed at reducing costs, increasing revenues and improving operations” for Canadian red meat packers and processors.
Last month’s federal budget put up an additional $10 million for the program from the federal Agricultural Flexibility Fund.
