October 8, 2007

Pork plant in Western Australia gains certification

Western Australia now has the capability for processing organic pork, with the certifiction of PPC Linley Valley Fresh's facility in Wooroloo.

The facilitity of PPC Linley Valley Fresh, which is part of the Craig Mostyn Group, has been given organic certification by the National Association for Sustainable Agriculture Australia (NASAA).

Ron Penn, general manager of PPC said the company was leading the market in addressing demand in the organic pork market in both Australia and overseas

The company is currently the top Australian pork supplier to Singapore.

Penn said PPC works with Australian producers in developing the industry, a chief reason why it sought organic certification.

Few changes were necessary at the plant for certification as the facility is modern, according to Julia Zubko, PPC technical manager.

The company spent over AUS $4 million (US$3.6 million) in modernising its boning room last year.

PPC organic pigs will be processed each morning and stored separately from conventional ones.

Zubko stated that processing will be carried out quickly and without stress to the pigs. Producers will have the responsibility to feed only organic feed to their stock, to provide them with adequate shelter and to house their stock based on recommended densities.