October 19, 2020

JBS: Brazil meat production increased but land used is less

Gilberto Tomazoni, global chief executive of JBS SA, the biggest meatpacker in the world, said Brazilian livestock suppliers have increased production but used less land, as concerns amplify on the overuse of natural resource to produce food, Reuters reported.

Tomazoni said Brazilian meat production tripled on a per hectare basis between 1990 and 2019. He was speaking at a panel discussion to mark World Food day.

JBS launched a BRL 1 billion fund in September to foster Amazon forest social and economic development. According to JBS, this initiative will support local communities and make sure the rainforest isn't destroyed by livestock production.

Tomazoni said 100% of their direct suppliers do not deforest the Amazon, adding that JBS will introduce blockchain technology and invest in projects that can monitor the rest of its supply chain.

The JBS fund is part of the company's initiative to battle against deforestation and climate change, which includes monitoring indirect cattle suppliers.

Tomazoni said the global population will hit 10 billion in 2050, citing Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations data, with the challenge to feed the world more greater in future.

-      Reuters