Thursday, March 20, 2014

Maple Leaf gets $5 million from feds


The federal government giving Maple Leaf Foods $5 million to buy fancy equipment for its new plant in Hamilton.

The government says it’s a “repayable investment” but gives no details about the terms for repayment.

In a news release, the federal agriculture department says the equipment “will improve the company’s operating and production efficiencies while enhancing food safety and supporting product innovation." 

It’s for a “fully-automated process that significantly improves food safety and includes built-in features to facilitate product traceability.

“The system is also expected to improve the shape, texture, consistency and shelf-life of deli meat products while reducing sodium content.

“This strategic investment will boost the competiveness of the meat sector and create opportunities for Canadian pork producers for years to come,” the federal agriculture department says.