Minister Visits Linden Foods
UK - As part of a large farmer owned Co-operative, Fane Valley, Linden Foods have an almost unique position as a processor of red meat in Europe and the sector received an added boost with the backing of the Northern Ireland Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew this week.Touring the facility, the minister said: "I am particularly impressed by the continual programme of expansion and development which has ensured that Linden Foods is recognised as one of the major red meat processors in Ireland.
"Linden Foods manufactures an impressive range of added value beef and lamb products which are marketed to the major retailers and the food service sector throughout the British Isles and within Europe.
During the visit, the Minister also took the opportunity to discuss the economic pressures facing the local red meat sector.
She said: "Linden Foods is leading the way in its pro-active development of a dairy bred beef supply chain for their business. It has followed the Red Meat Task Force recommendations closely and engaged with core customers both locally and abroad. I would encourage every business involved in the red meat sector to do likewise and help all of us to ensure that we have a viable industry for years to come."
Richard Moore, Director of Linden Foods welcomed the visit by Minister Gildernew as a positive step in helping the sector realise its full potential.
He said: "As the beef and lamb sector continues to grow, the food processing industry needs to overcome key challenges presented by current economic climate. Higher energy and waste disposal costs will mean businesses including Linden Foods will have to continue to diversify its business and invest in technology enabling it to minimise such costs."
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