Guide Reveals Opportunities for Improved Profits for Poultry Processors

07/02/2018

The Poultry Processing Blueprint highlights the increased pressures on the food supply chain fuelled by global population growth, in particular the emergence of a new middle class in developing economies. This is leading to further demand for poultry products, with one of America’s largest poultry producers, Pilgrim’s Pride, estimating a 1.2% annual growth rate in chicken production worldwide.

However, although this offers opportunities for the poultry sector, both consumers and retailers are also seeking more responsible and sustainable practices throughout the food chain while not expecting this to have a significant impact on the final shelf price. Poultry processors therefore have to balance cost increases in meeting new standards with further efficiencies elsewhere in their operations.

The Ishida white paper outlines ways these efficiencies can be achieved. In particular, it points out the cost implications of any unnecessary handling or storage of meat during processing as well the risk of compromising hygiene. By comparison, the adoption of in-line processing, a philosophy derived from lean manufacturing where product is kept on the move at all times, offers the potential to save time, money and factory space, as well as improving the quality of the final product.

Effective in-line processing enables automated technologies, optimised plant design and flexibility of resource to come together to deliver higher speeds, improved accuracy, maximum yield and superior quality. Equally important, it has the flexibility to be adapted to the varying requirements of different sized businesses.

The white paper also includes practical examples of companies where the installation of such systems have made a noticeable difference, and showcases the emergence of a new automated technology for the marinating of products as an ideal example of the effectiveness of in-line processing.

“The poultry industry is already well-regulated and highly scrutinised for its standards of manufacturing, while competition is driving prices down,” comments Ulrich Nielsen, Director of Business Solutions at Ishida Europe.

“This means processors are continually seeking ways to boost profitability. The smarter and more efficient use of resources and raw materials can make a significant contribution and offers a major opportunity for processors in a market where marginal gains can make a huge difference.”