April 30, 2012

A Tyson Foods, Inc. poultry complex in Sedalia, Missouri, has been expanded to include state-of-the-art processes and technologies designed to benefit animal handling, food safety, environmental quality, workplace safety and production.

The company plans to hire about 150 people between November 2012 and March 2013. Another 50 people likely will be required by mid-2014, Tyson officials said.

The plant produces fully cooked chicken for grocery customers, including fully cooked patties, nuggets, wings and breast strips.

"The improvements will help optimise the plant's product mix for our customers and make it even more cost competitive," said Chris McMurrough, vice president of operations for Tyson.

Ergonomics will be incorporated into the new debone and slaughter areas.

In addition to upgraded equipment and infrastructure at the wastewater treatment operations, a third lagoon will be built to ensure there is enough capacity to handle higher volumes.

"The Sedalia complex recently received recognition for its environmental work from the American Meat Institute," said Alan Johnston, complex manager.

The Sedalia poultry complex contracts with more than 125 poultry farmers in seven counties in central Missouri. Complex operations include the poultry processing plant, hatchery, feed mill, live haul operations, wastewater treatment facility and a rendering operation.