Olymel to gradually reopen meat processing plant in Alberta, Canada

Canadian meat packing food processor Olymel is set to gradually reopen its hog slaughtering, cutting and boning plant in Red Deer, Alberta, after obtaining approval from Alberta Health Services (AHS).

The plant was temporarily closed for 14 days.

Olymel said that it will continue to work with AHS and the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) throughout the entire gradual reopening process in order to restrict the spread of the coronavirus.

The company said that it worked with the task force specifically formed by the AHS to support the company with planning a safe gradual reopening.

In a statement, Olymel said: “Olymel management is pleased to confirm that most of the employees who have had Covid-19 since the outbreak began have recovered. Olymel management wishes a speedy and healthy recovery to those who are still affected.

“Olymel will also ensure that there is a strong collaboration and commitment amongst its workforce to prevent the spread.”

Three of the company’s employees passed away after testing positive for Covid-19.

Olymel said that its slaughter operations at the facility are set to begin today while the cutting room operations will resume tomorrow (5 March).

The company has been recalling employee groups to take part in training sessions covering all implemented health measures, adjustments and the action plan developed for reopening.

In a separate development, the Canadian Government has agreed to provide up to C$5m ($3.95m) to Fromageries Bel Canada to construct a Mini Babybel cheese plant in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec.

The development would mark the first Mini Babybel production facility in Canada. The snack was earlier manufactured in the EU or the US using non-Canadian dairy.

The investment offered under the AgriInnovate programme will be used for the construction of the plant, as well as for introducing new technologies such as moulding lines, waxing and a quality control system.

In addition to creating 140 full-time jobs in the Sorel-Tracy area, the new facility is expected to increase the demand for Canadian dairy by 39 million litres a year.

Upon the completion of the new plant, Mini Babybel cheese will be made using 100% locally sourced milk.