The governments of Canada and Ontario continue to support the meat sector’s growth and strengthen the food supply chain by committing up to $7 million to increase processing capacity in meat processing plants across the province.
“The lack of sufficient processing capacity in Ontario has been a limiting factor to a healthy competitive market for the province’s beef sector,” says Rob Lipsett, President of Beef Farmers of Ontario.
This is the second intake of the Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership. The Meat Processors Capacity Improvement Initiative will provide funding for eligible free standing meat plants and abattoirs.
This investment will provide up to $150,000 per project for handling and processing equipment to increase efficiency, productivity, and food safety, as well as covering consulting and engineering costs associated with planning future projects.
The intake will open for applications on November 19th, 2021.
“Ontario livestock processors have worked tirelessly since the COVID-19 pandemic began to ensure Ontarians had access to fresh, local, and high-quality meat products for their families,” says Lisa Thompson, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.
“While the sector continues to face extraordinary processing capacity challenges, our government is stepping up with this important investment to help Ontario meat processors and abattoirs continue producing the safe and healthy food millions of Ontarians rely on each and every day.”
According to the province, there are 480 provincially license and 230 federally licensed abattoirs and free-standing meat plants in Ontario. The Ontario agri-food sector contributes nearly $47 billion each year Ontario’s economy.