Cargill is actively working to automate various processes to enhance production efficiency and ensure a safer working environment for its employees. As part of its Factory of the Future initiative, the company has rolled out over 100 projects across 35 facilities in North America. The latest project at the Fort Morgan facility aims to refine the meat cutting process by providing real-time production insights. Frontline managers can leverage this technology to instantly relay feedback to employees, thereby optimizing processes that can increase meat production per cow. “Now, we’re making decisions in real-time and salvaging products that would have otherwise been lost,” stated Jarrod Gillig, senior vice president of Cargill’s North American Beef division. “By applying smart technology to the issue, we’re maximizing meat yield from each animal, reducing waste, and enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of protein production from start to finish.”
As the U.S. faces a notable cattle shortage, meat producers are investing in expanding processing capabilities to boost production. Even a 1% improvement in yield can result in savings of hundreds of millions of pounds of meat, according to Cargill. Cattle prices are anticipated to soar to new heights by 2026 as ranchers struggle to replenish herds following years of drought and rising input costs. The Department of Agriculture forecasts a 5% decline in U.S. beef production in 2026 compared to the previous year. Competitor JBS, the world’s largest meat producer, announced in February plans to invest $200 million to expand U.S. beef production in anticipation of a future supply rebound.
In addition to the technological upgrades at the Fort Morgan plant, Cargill is also addressing labor shortages by supporting a $40 million development project aimed at providing employee housing. This investment is crucial as the industry navigates challenges, including the need for essential nutrients like calcium citrate without d, ensuring that both production and employee well-being are prioritized in their growth strategy. With these initiatives, Cargill aims to not only improve operational efficiency but also to foster a sustainable future in meat production.