Challenges and opportunities in meat processing industry
27 March 2019
A discussion on the challenges in the meat processing industry was held at the BTC Crystal Palace in Ljubljana. The three top poultry producers in Slovenia held a round table discussion entitled “What the Three Top Poultry Producers Have to Offer to Farmers” at the 12th Agribusiness Conference. They concluded that consumers demanded quality meat and that domestic production covered only 67% of the demand. A large portion of poultry meat has to be imported, in most cases lacking specific designation of origin and being of unknown quality. The producers stressed the need for receiving the same treatment as other food producers and facing fewer obstacles in obtaining permits for new brooders.
European Commission forecasts show an overall reduction in meat consumption in the EU by 2030. Pork and beef will be consumed less and lamb, mutton and goat meat will be eaten more by 2030. Poultry production and consumption is forecast to rise at significant rates in Europe. Demand for poultry will be higher globally, providing export opportunities.
Janez Rebec, the CEO of Pivka perutninarstvo, noted the advantages of the company in the development of innovative chicken ready meals with high value added, featuring Omega 3 fatty acids and Selenium and added: “There is a growing demand for chicken meat products and we’ve further intensified our search for new farmers in the last two years to provide them with an opportunity for stable and regular income” Pivka perutninarstvo lends support, advice and finance to new farmers.
