We were honored to be able to visit the JBS Swift Beef Plant in Greeley, Colorado, today. JBS is the one largest beef producers in the world. They typically process 400 head of cattle an hour.
While we were there, we saw a steady flow of cattle leaving the large holding pen and then going through the outside serpentine chute designed by Temple Grandin. They were heading for the kill floor inside.
The effort of JBS to oversee humane handling and animal safety is quite obvious. Signs like these remind workers to be cognizant of animal welfare and food safety.
The enormity of this meat cooler is even understated in a photograph. It was impeccably clean and precisely organized according to carcass origin, type and proposed market. Mark Gustafson, Vice President of International Sales, took much time out of his day to teach us all about the operations of the plant.
With about 3,000 employees, the plant stays remarkably clean and sanitary. There is a 24/7 maintenance program for food safety.
