Vion Starts Production in New Beef Abattoir in Leeuwarden

NETHERLANDS - In February, Vion has started production at its new beef abattoir in Leeuwarden, in the north of The Netherlands.
calendar icon 1 March 2018
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After ten months of construction, the production will now be increased - step by step - to a capacity of 2,500 heads of cattle per week.

Vion invested almost €20 million in the site, which is equipped in accordance with the most up to date animal welfare and environmental criteria.

The EU certificated abattoir has an important function in Vion's corporate strategy for sustainable and regional meat production. Some 500 farmers are taking part in the 'Waddenrund' (Wadden cattle) programme.

The animals must be kept at pasture during at least six hours per day and for at least 120 days per year. The farms must be situated within 15 miles inland from the coast.

Owing to the proximity of the Vion abattoir, fast transport times can be ensured, as well as compliance with the highest animal welfare standards.

Apart from Wadden cattle, the operation in Leeuwarden is also equipped for the slaughter of organic cattle. In this way, Vion will be able to serve the increasing demand for organically bred beef.

Bernd Stange, COO Beef, emphasised that Vion, by commissioning Leeuwarden, advances the production of sustainable meat concepts, such as free-range beef, Wadden beef and organic beef.

Mr Stange said: "We strive for a further improvement of shorter food production chains for the market, and in doing so focus on the themes of transparency and food safety as well as the best quality.

"With Leeuwarden, we do not only reinforce our market position in the Dutch beef sector but also further expand our position as one of the leading beef producers in Europe."

Some 45 persons have been employed in Leeuwarden.

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