March 30, 2020

 

Canadian beef plant stops slaughter operations after positive COVID-19 case

 

Alberta-based Harmony beef closed cattle slaughter operations after one of its workers tested positive for COVID-19, reported Reuters.

 

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) removed some of its inspectors from Harmony Beef, which triggered the partial closure of Harmony Beefs' operations. According to Canadian law, slaughter plants cannot operate without CFIA inspectors.

 

This follows US-based Sanderson Farms, which reported one of its workers testing positive for COVID-19.

 

Crosbie Cotton, Harmony spokesman said they were notified of the positive case from the Alberta health department.

 

Harmony had sent all other workers in that section of the slaughter area quarantined at home for two weeks, even if they did not display any symptoms.

 

Cotton said other types of processing are being carried out in the facility. It aims to fully reopen after discussions with CFIA.

 

Alberta, Canada is the biggest beef producer in the country.

 

Kevin Grier, a meat and livestock analyst said meat production has become a profitable business that JBS and Cargill have added additional Saturday shifts.

 

Grier said meat companies have imposed strict measures to curb the spread of COVID-19, including constructing trailers and tents so workers are at safe distance from each other.

 

Harmony said all workers are screened and the plant is cleaned more often.

 

CFIA said because of its capacity constraints, meat processing plants have been informed that CFIA agency staffed hours have been reduced.

 

-      Reuters