Covid-19 Coronavirus Pandemic Impacting Canada's Meat Supplies

CTV News: COVID-19 to have 'immediate and drastic' impact on Canadian meat supply: industry group

TORONTO -- Some of North America’s largest meat producers have been forced to close their plants or reduce production amid the spread of the novel coronavirus, prompting industry leaders to warn of “immediate and drastic” effects on Canada’s supply chain.

Beef processing capabilities have been reduced at a number of facilities in Canada and the U.S., including a temporary reduction at a Cargill meat plant in High River, Alta., where dozens of employees have tested positive for COVID-19.

“This single facility represents just over one-third of Canada’s total processing capability, so the impacts to the Canadian beef industry are expected to be immediate and drastic,” Michelle McMullen, communications manager at the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association (CCA), told CTVNews.ca by email Monday.

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Update: Canadian Meat Industry Warns Of "Immediate And Drastic" Impact To Supply (Zero Hedge)

WNU Editor: I always follow trends in food supply and prices because they always give me an indication on national and geopolitical trends. In the case of Canada where I am presently isolated in my chalet, I am already seeing food inflation and some shortages at the town's supermarket . But Canada is one of the lucky countries, where the supply chain is resilient and heavily supported by the government. This is not the case for other countries, particularly in the developing world. Here is an easy prediction. This can only get worse, especially if this year's farm season is disrupted.