Perdido River Meats opens new US$29M meat processing facility
USA – Perdido River Meats, a division of Perdido River Farms, is opening a new meat processing facility in Atmore, Alabama, after investing US$29 million in the project.
The 23,000-square-foot facility is expected to process approximately 50 cattle per week, with plans to scale up to 125 as demand increases.
John English, director of Perdido River Farms, says the expansion allows the company to provide fresh, locally sourced beef to the community.
The new plant is creating around 15 jobs, contributing to the local economy while offering additional processing options for farmers in the region.
Alabama Agriculture and Industries Commissioner Rick Pate says the facility will support cattle producers who have been seeking more processing locations in the state.
The grand opening event, which was open to the public, featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, food, and giveaways.
Perdido River Meats specializes exclusively in beef products, giving customers the option to have their own cattle processed or purchase whole or half cows directly from the plant.
Its retail store is offering a range of products, from soup bones to filet mignon.
Perdido River Farms operates on 2,900 acres of land owned by the Poarch Creek Indians, managing grazing pastures, hay production, and crop farming.
The agricultural division also runs a commercial cow/calf operation and supports youth events like the Escambia County Youth Livestock Association Steer & Heifer Show and the Alabama South District FFA Fall Eliminations.
The company wants to take advantage of the growing demand for beef in the USA.
In 2021, beef consumption in the United States reached a record high of 30 billion pounds.
The following year, the average consumption per person was 59.1 pounds.
Despite a long-term decline in per capita beef consumption, recent years have shown an upward trend.
The United States remains the leading producer of beef and veal globally, with over 12.6 million metric tons produced in 2022.
Consumption patterns vary based on factors such as location, ethnicity, race, and income levels.
Rural residents tend to consume more beef than those living in urban or suburban areas.
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