Industry Profile

Ontario’s independent meat processing industry holds a strong position within the province’s manufacturing sector. Meat processing represents 20% of the $33 billion food manufacturing industry, generating over $6.5 billion in sales annually – a significant contribution to the provincial economy. We estimate there are more than 1,500 businesses involved in the meat and poultry industry employing over 20,000 people, representing 20% of Ontario’s food processing workforce.

Our sector can be defined as including abattoirs, primary and secondary meat processors and butcher shops. In addition to positive primary impacts on job creation, farming, retail, food service and consumers, the industry offers further benefit to rural communities and related businesses. These family owned and operated meat plants are manufacturing and retailing a vast array of high quality meat products, servicing many ethnic markets. Provincially licensed abattoirs provide an important service to Ontario's agriculture community and contribute to the rural economy.

Slaughter Statisitcs in Provincially Inspected Plants, Ontario

Red Meat Market Information Federal Slaughter Reports