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Europe boasts a rich tradition of pork production, with renowned companies driving innovation and sustainability in the sector. Here, we unveil the top 10 pork producers in Europe, highlighting their contributions to the continent’s thriving swine industry.

Top 10 Pork Producers in Europe: Leading the Continent’s Swine Industry

1. Danish Crown: Denmark’s Danish Crown is a major player in Europe’s pork market, renowned for its high-quality products and commitment to sustainability. The company operates modern processing facilities and maintains stringent quality standards.
2. Tönnies Group: Germany’s Tönnies Group is among Europe’s largest pork producers, with vertically integrated operations spanning pig farming, processing, and distribution. The company emphasizes efficiency and animal welfare throughout its supply chain.
3. Vion Food Group: Based in the Netherlands, Vion Food Group is a leading pork producer in Europe, with a focus on innovation and responsible sourcing. The company’s diverse product portfolio caters to both domestic and international markets.
4. Smithfield Foods: With operations across Europe, Smithfield Foods is a key player in the continent’s pork industry. The company’s commitment to food safety and sustainability has earned it a reputation as a reliable pork supplier.
5. Gruppo Cremonini: Italy’s Gruppo Cremonini is a major pork producer in Europe, operating modern processing plants and distribution networks. The company’s focus on quality and tradition has solidified its position in the market.
6. Cranswick plc: Based in the United Kingdom, Cranswick plc is a leading pork supplier in Europe, known for its premium products and sustainable practices. The company works closely with farmers to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare and environmental stewardship.
7. Westfleisch eG: Westfleisch eG is a prominent pork producer in Germany, with a cooperative structure that emphasizes collaboration and sustainability. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities and efficient logistics ensure the timely delivery of high-quality pork products.
8. Cooperl Arc Atlantique: France’s Cooperl Arc Atlantique is a major player in Europe’s pork market, with a focus on quality, traceability, and environmental responsibility. The company’s cooperative model empowers farmers while ensuring product consistency and safety.
9. Agrosuper: Spain’s Agrosuper is a leading pork producer in Europe, leveraging advanced technology and sustainable practices to meet consumer demand. The company’s commitment to animal welfare and environmental stewardship sets it apart in the industry.
10. Höhenrainer Delikatessen GmbH & Co. KG: Based in Germany, Höhenrainer Delikatessen specializes in premium pork products, catering to discerning consumers across Europe. The company’s artisanal approach and focus on traditional recipes have earned it a loyal customer base.

These top 10 pork producers in Europe epitomize excellence in the swine industry, driving innovation, sustainability, and quality across the continent. As Europe continues to play a pivotal role in the global pork market, these companies are poised to lead the way in meeting evolving consumer preferences and industry standards.

Related: European Pork Industry 2023 Review: Challenging Times

China stands as the world’s largest pork producer, dominating the global market with its vast swine industry. From traditional family farms to modern commercial operations, the country boasts a diverse landscape of pork production. Here, we delve into the top 10 pork producers in China, shedding light on their contributions to this essential sector of the Chinese economy.

Top 10 Pork Producers in China: Powerhouses of the Swine Industry

1. WH Group Limited (formerly Shuanghui Group): As the largest pork company globally, WH Group has a significant presence in China, operating numerous processing plants and breeding facilities across the country. Its flagship brand, Shuanghui, is a household name synonymous with quality pork products.
2. Henan Shuanghui Investment & Development Co., Ltd.: A subsidiary of WH Group, Henan Shuanghui is a leading pork producer in Henan Province, known for its advanced production techniques and strict quality control measures.
3. Muyuan Foods Co., Ltd.: Muyuan Foods is one of China’s largest vertically integrated pork producers, with operations spanning pig breeding, farming, and pork processing. The company’s focus on innovation and sustainability has propelled its growth in the industry.
4. New Hope Liuhe Co., Ltd.: New Hope Liuhe is a diversified agribusiness company with a significant presence in China’s pork sector. Leveraging its extensive network of farms and feed mills, the company plays a pivotal role in meeting domestic pork demand.
5. Wens Foodstuffs Group Co., Ltd.: Wens Foodstuffs Group is among China’s largest integrated pig breeding and pork processing companies. With a focus on technological innovation and quality assurance, Wens has established itself as a key player in the Chinese pork industry.
6. CP Pokphand Co., Ltd.: CP Pokphand is a leading agribusiness conglomerate with operations spanning animal feed production, livestock farming, and pork processing. The company’s commitment to sustainable practices has earned it recognition in the Chinese market.
7. Beijing Dabeinong Technology Group Co., Ltd.: Dabeinong is a prominent player in China’s agricultural sector, with interests in pig breeding, animal health products, and agricultural technology. The company’s integrated approach to pork production ensures efficiency and quality throughout the supply chain.
8. Shanghai Jiaoda Onlly Co., Ltd.: Shanghai Jiaoda Onlly is a leading producer of veterinary drugs and animal health products in China. With a focus on enhancing animal welfare and disease prevention, the company supports the growth of the domestic pork industry.
9. Tecon Biology Co., Ltd.: Tecon Biology specializes in the research, development, and production of animal vaccines and diagnostic kits. Its products play a vital role in safeguarding the health and productivity of China’s pork-producing livestock.
10. Lihua Group Corporation Limited: Lihua Group is a major player in China’s feed and livestock industries, with a focus on sustainable development and technological innovation. The company’s integrated approach to pork production ensures traceability and quality assurance.

These top 10 pork producers in China represent the forefront of the country’s swine industry, driving innovation, sustainability, and quality across the supply chain. As China continues to play a dominant role in the global pork market, these companies are poised to shape the future of pork production both domestically and internationally.

Related: Top 10 Pork Producers in the World

Pork is one of the most consumed meats worldwide, with its popularity spanning across cultures and cuisines. As demand for pork continues to rise, driven by population growth and increasing incomes in emerging economies, the swine industry has become a vital sector in the global food supply chain. Here, we explore the top 10 pork producers in the world, highlighting their contributions to meeting the growing demand for this versatile meat.

Top 10 Pork Producers in the World: A Guide to the Global Swine Industry

1. China: China stands as the world’s largest pork producer, accounting for a significant portion of global pork output. With a long history of pork consumption deeply embedded in its culinary traditions, China’s pork industry is vast and diverse, ranging from small-scale backyard farms to large commercial operations.
2. European Union: The European Union (EU) collectively ranks among the top pork-producing regions globally. Countries like Germany, Spain, Denmark, and the Netherlands are key contributors to the EU’s pork production, leveraging advanced farming practices and stringent quality standards.
3. United States: The United States is a major player in the global pork industry, with leading pork-producing states including Iowa, North Carolina, and Minnesota. American pork producers are known for their efficiency, technological advancements, and adherence to strict regulations governing animal welfare and food safety.
4. Brazil: Brazil has emerged as a significant force in the global pork market, fueled by its abundant land resources and favorable climate for pig farming. Brazilian pork producers benefit from access to international markets and have made strides in adopting sustainable farming practices.
5. Germany: Germany boasts a strong tradition of pork production and is renowned for its high-quality pork products, including various cured meats and sausages. German pig farmers prioritize animal welfare and environmental sustainability, contributing to the country’s reputation as a reliable pork supplier.
6. Spain: Spain is a leading pork producer within the EU, with regions like Catalonia and Castile and León playing pivotal roles in the country’s pork industry. Spanish pork products, such as Jamón Ibérico (Iberian ham), are prized for their exceptional taste and quality.
7. Vietnam: Vietnam has seen remarkable growth in its pork production sector in recent years, driven by increasing domestic demand and government support for agricultural development. Smallholder farmers form the backbone of Vietnam’s pork industry, supplementing larger commercial operations.
8. Russia: Russia has emerged as a key player in the global pork market, leveraging its vast landmass and abundant grain supplies to support large-scale pig farming operations. The Russian government’s initiatives to promote self-sufficiency in pork production have further propelled the industry forward.
9. Canada: Canada is a significant pork producer, known for its modern farming practices, rigorous food safety standards, and commitment to sustainability. Canadian pork products are exported to markets worldwide, contributing to the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier of high-quality pork.
10. Poland: Poland is a major pork producer within the EU, with a strong agricultural tradition and favorable climatic conditions for pig farming. Polish pork exports have grown steadily in recent years, driven by increasing demand from both domestic and international markets.

These top 10 pork-producing countries play integral roles in meeting global demand for pork, supplying a wide range of pork products to consumers worldwide. Despite facing challenges such as disease outbreaks, fluctuating market prices, and environmental concerns, the swine industry remains resilient, adapting to evolving trends and consumer preferences while striving for sustainability and efficiency. As the world’s appetite for pork continues to grow, these leading pork producers are poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the global pork industry.

Related: Top 10 Leading Pork Brands in the World

Thai Union Reports Losses in Q4 2023

Thai Union, an international food and beverage manufacturing company, faces significant losses, largely attributed to its investment in Red Lobster.

Background: Investment in Red Lobster

Thai Union increased its stake in Red Lobster in 2020 but faced challenges due to poor performance. In January 2024, it announced plans to exit the strategic partnership with Red Lobster Master Holdings.

Factors Impacting Red Lobster’s Performance

A combination of factors, including the Covid-19 pandemic, industry challenges, higher interest rates, and rising costs, contributed to Red Lobster’s prolonged negative financial performance.

Decision to Divest and Impairment Charge

Thai Union’s decision to divest from Red Lobster came after a thorough review highlighted discrepancies between Red Lobster’s financial demands and Thai Union’s priorities. The company recorded a significant impairment charge as a result.

Continued Losses and Rising Financial Burden

In Q4 2023, Thai Union’s losses from Red Lobster increased, reflecting ongoing financial challenges within the chain. The decision to divest signals a strategic shift for Thai Union.

Related: Top 10 Largest Seafood Companies in the World

BioMar Achieves Record Success in 2023

BioMar, a leading aquafeed company, announces its best-ever yearly results following a strong Q4 performance.

Impressive Financial Performance

Despite similar volumes and revenue to previous years, BioMar boosts EBITDA by 26%, surpassing market guidance and achieving a turnover of DKK 20 billion.

CEO’s Satisfaction and Strategic Focus

Carlos Diaz, CEO of BioMar, expresses satisfaction with the company’s performance, highlighting proactive market development and improved commercial activities.

Focus on Sustainability and Partnerships

BioMar emphasizes the importance of long-term business relationships and sustainability. Diaz underscores the significance of partnerships with suppliers and customers committed to sustainability.

Prioritizing Quality Over Volume

BioMar prioritizes long-term collaborations with core customers over volume expansion. Diaz emphasizes the company’s commitment to building a healthy business while advancing sustainability goals.

Related: Top 10 Largest Seafood Producers in the USA

Perdue and Sanderson Settle in Chicken Price-Fixing Cases

Perdue Farms Inc., Sanderson, and other chicken suppliers agree to settle claims of conspiring to fix poultry prices, impacting food distributors.

Settlement Agreements Await Court Approval

Plaintiffs’ lawyers representing direct purchasers of chicken announce plans to seek preliminary approval for the settlements from a Chicago federal judge.

Terms and Response from Companies

Details of the settlements remain undisclosed. Perdue and Sanderson, along with other defendants, have denied any wrongdoing. Perdue is yet to respond to requests for comment.

Legal Battles and Preceding Rulings

Perdue and other defendants previously secured a pre-trial ruling, dismissing claims against them. Sanderson, now part of Wayne-Sanderson, emerged victorious in the first trial of the chicken price-fixing litigation.

Allegations of Price Manipulation

Plaintiffs accuse the defendants of keeping chicken prices artificially high by limiting production and sharing confidential data on supply and demand.

Previous Settlements and Denial of Liability

Prior settlements with other chicken producers totaled over $284 million. Companies like Tyson and Pilgrim’s Pride settled for significant amounts, while denying liability.

Related: Wayne-Sanderson & Perdue’s Health Trend Focus

Industry Trends: Meat Processing Plant Closures in Missouri

The closure of Missouri Prime Beef Packers’ plant in Pleasant Hope adds to a concerning trend of meat processing plant closures across Missouri. In the past year, the state has witnessed the shutdown of several significant facilities, including two Tyson Foods poultry processing plants located in Dexter and Noel.

These closures have reverberated through local communities, impacting not only the livelihoods of employees but also the broader economy. Tyson Foods, one of the largest meat processors globally, shuttering operations in Dexter and Noel has dealt a blow to the local workforce and the region’s agricultural sector.

Similarly, Smithfield Foods’ decision to close 35 hog farms in August 2023 further underscores the challenges faced by the meat processing industry in Missouri. These closures reflect a combination of factors, including market dynamics, regulatory pressures, and operational challenges.

The closure of meat processing plants can have far-reaching consequences beyond job losses. It can disrupt supply chains, affect local businesses that rely on these facilities, and lead to a decline in agricultural activity in the region. Additionally, it raises concerns about food security and availability, especially in regions heavily dependent on meat production for their economic well-being.

As Missouri Prime Beef Packers prepares to shut its doors, the broader implications of this closure highlight the need for proactive measures to support the resilience and sustainability of the meat processing industry in Missouri. This includes fostering innovation, investing in workforce development, and addressing regulatory challenges to ensure the continued viability of meat processing operations in the state.

The Latest: Missouri Prime Beef Packers to Close Plant

Missouri Prime Beef Packers announces the closure of its plant in Pleasant Hope, affecting 335 employees, citing uncertainties about permanence. The company withdrew a request to release treated wastewater into the Pomme de Terre River in January, previously used as fertilizer.

Impact on Jobs and Operations

Affected departments include fabrication, maintenance, harvest, accounting, coolers, quality assurance, and warehouse, as outlined in the notification.

Acquisition and Operations Details

STX Beef Co., a subsidiary of JDH Capital LLC, acquired Missouri Prime Beef Packers in May 2023. The plant processed 750 cattle daily, operating five days a week.

Closure Amidst Industry Trends

Missouri Prime Beef Packers joins the list of meat processing plants closing in Missouri, including Tyson Foods poultry processing plants and Smithfield Foods hog farms.

Sources include: MeatPoultry

Related: Tyson Foods & Cargill shut down beef plants

A high-stakes legal showdown unfolds between retail giant Target and commodities powerhouse Cargill, as they clash over alleged beef price manipulation.

Target Joins Forces Against “Big 4”

Target escalates the antitrust lawsuit by teaming up with plaintiffs like Subway and Kroger’s, targeting Cargill, JBS, National Beef, and Tyson. Accusations include coordinated efforts to decrease cattle slaughter volumes, leading to inflated beef prices.

Allegations of Coordinated Production Decrease

Claims in the lawsuit point to incidents like the 2019 fire at a Tyson-owned beef plant in Kansas, alleging competitors slowed production in tandem. Target’s lawsuit questions the simultaneous decrease in production amid supply constraints.

Legal Grounds and Denial of Wrongdoing

Target’s lawsuit invokes the Sherman Antitrust Act to challenge the accused meat producers’ alleged monopolistic practices. However, the accused vehemently deny any wrongdoing, emphasizing their commitment to market integrity and ethical business conduct.

The Continuing Legal Offensive

This legal skirmish adds to the ongoing legal battles against major players in the US meat industry. Settlements totaling hundreds of millions of dollars have already been reached in response to similar allegations, reflecting a broader legal offensive against industry giants.

Related: Cargill’s Ahold Delhaize Meat Acquisitions

Brazilian beef giant JBS is encountering growing opposition to its planned US share listing, as accusations of “greenwashing” intensify.

Lawsuit Allegations and Environmental Concerns

New York’s attorney-general Letitia James filed a lawsuit against JBS’s American arm, alleging misleading environmental claims. The lawsuit challenges JBS’s commitment to achieving “net zero” greenhouse gas emissions by 2040, citing a lack of feasible plans. Additionally, environmentalists have criticized JBS for its role in Amazon deforestation, linking cattle rearing to the destruction of the rainforest.

Political and Regulatory Scrutiny

US senators expressed concerns over the proposed listing, citing potential anti-competitive conduct and environmental impacts. They urged regulators to closely examine JBS’s disclosures, highlighting past corruption scandals involving its controlling shareholder, J&F Investimentos.

JBS’s Response and Sustainability Efforts

JBS refuted the allegations, emphasizing its rigorous monitoring of suppliers to prevent illegal practices. The company stated its commitment to eliminating deforestation from its supply chains and promoting sustainability in agriculture. Despite the controversy, JBS plans to continue its listing proposal, aiming for dual listings in the US and Brazil.

Investor Dissent and Market Dynamics

JBS’s listing proposal faces challenges from minority shareholders and investor dissent. Major asset managers like Vanguard and BlackRock have voiced concerns over governance issues and climate risk disclosures, signaling potential resistance within the investor community.

Trend of Foreign Companies Seeking US Listings

JBS’s listing aspirations align with a broader trend of foreign companies seeking US listings for enhanced liquidity and valuation. This trend includes recent listings by companies like Kazakh fintech Kaspi and British gambling group Flutter.

In summary, JBS’s listing plans face multifaceted challenges, encompassing legal, environmental, regulatory, and investor concerns. The outcome of these challenges will shape the future trajectory of the Brazilian meatpacker in the global market.

Related: The Latest on JBS SA’s Dual Listing Delay

Sources include: Financial Times

Introduction: The meat industry in the United States is a significant sector contributing to the nation’s economy and providing a vital food source for its population. With a diverse range of meat products, including beef, pork, poultry, and others, the industry comprises numerous players, both large-scale corporations and smaller producers. This report aims to highlight the top 10 meat producers in the USA based on various factors such as production volume, market share, revenue, and industry influence.

The top 10 meat producers in the USA:

1. Tyson Foods, Inc.:

Tyson Foods is one of the largest meat producers globally, with a significant presence in the USA. Headquartered in Springdale, Arkansas, Tyson Foods specializes in chicken, beef, and pork products. It operates numerous processing plants and distribution centers across the country, making it a dominant player in the US meat industry.

2. JBS USA Holdings, Inc.:

JBS USA Holdings is a subsidiary of the Brazilian company JBS S.A. and is one of the leading beef and pork producers in the USA. With headquarters in Greeley, Colorado, JBS USA operates multiple facilities across the country, processing millions of pounds of meat annually.

3. Cargill Meat Solutions:

Cargill Meat Solutions is a division of Cargill, Incorporated, a global agricultural conglomerate. Based in Wichita, Kansas, Cargill Meat Solutions is involved in beef, turkey, pork, and chicken processing. The company’s operations span across various states in the USA, contributing significantly to the nation’s meat supply.

4. Smithfield Foods, Inc.:

Smithfield Foods, headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, is one of the largest pork producers in the USA. Acquired by the Chinese company WH Group in 2013, Smithfield Foods operates numerous hog farms and processing plants across several states, supplying pork products to domestic and international markets.

5. Hormel Foods Corporation:

Hormel Foods Corporation, based in Austin, Minnesota, is a diversified food company with a significant presence in the meat industry. It produces various meat products under brands such as SPAM, Hormel, and Jennie-O. Hormel Foods’ extensive distribution network ensures its products are widely available throughout the USA.

6. Perdue Farms, Inc.:

Perdue Farms is a leading poultry producer in the USA, known for its chicken products. Headquartered in Salisbury, Maryland, Perdue Farms operates vertically integrated poultry farms and processing facilities across several states, ensuring quality control and traceability throughout its production process.

7. Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation:

Pilgrim’s Pride Corporation is a major poultry producer in the USA, specializing in chicken products. Based in Greeley, Colorado, Pilgrim’s Pride operates processing plants and distribution centers nationwide, supplying chicken to retail, foodservice, and industrial customers.

8. National Beef Packing Company, LLC:

National Beef Packing Company is one of the largest beef processing companies in the USA. Headquartered in Kansas City, Missouri, National Beef operates slaughterhouses and beef processing facilities in multiple states, supplying high-quality beef products to domestic and international markets.

9. Seaboard Corporation:

Seaboard Corporation, based in Merriam, Kansas, is involved in various industries, including pork production. Through its subsidiary Seaboard Foods, the company operates integrated pork processing facilities in the USA, ensuring the quality and safety of its pork products from farm to fork.

10. Cactus Feeders, Inc.:

Cactus Feeders, headquartered in Amarillo, Texas, is a prominent beef cattle producer in the USA. The company operates feedlots and cattle feeding operations across several states, supplying cattle to meat processors and contributing to the nation’s beef supply chain.

Conclusion: The top 10 meat producers in the USA play a crucial role in meeting the nation’s demand for meat products. These companies, with their extensive operations and distribution networks, ensure a steady supply of beef, pork, poultry, and other meat varieties to consumers across the country and beyond.

Related: Top 10 Meat Councils in the United States