A New Halal Meat Processing Plant

Exciting developments are underway in Willmar, Minnesota, as Clean Chickens and Co. breaks ground on a new halal meat processing facility called Happy Halal. This $3.5 million project started construction in September 2024 and is expected to be completed by this spring.

Quick Construction with Precast Technology

The Happy Halal facility will cover 5,000 square feet and is being built using precast materials, which allows for faster construction. This innovative approach means that the plant can be up and running sooner, meeting the growing demand for halal meat in the community.

Meeting Community Needs

Once operational, Happy Halal will focus on processing goat and sheep using halal butchering methods. This is an important addition to the Willmar area, as halal foods are essential for many in the Islamic community, ensuring they have access to meat that meets their dietary laws.

Job Creation and Training Opportunities

The new facility is expected to create 18 jobs, providing valuable employment opportunities for local residents. Clean Chickens plans to collaborate with Ridgewater College’s meat processing program to train employees, ensuring they have the skills needed for the job.

Support from the Community

The construction of Happy Halal is supported by grants from the Minnesota Farmers Union, which aims to diversify the meat processing industry. At the groundbreaking event on September 18, 2024, Gary Wertish, President of the Minnesota Farmers Union, highlighted the need for more options in livestock processing, as the industry has traditionally focused on beef, pork, and poultry.

A Family-Run Business

Clean Chickens is a family-owned business that started as a mobile chicken processing company based in Elk River. With the establishment of Happy Halal, they are expanding their services to better serve the community and meet the needs of halal consumers.

In summary, the construction of the Happy Halal facility in Willmar is a significant step forward for the local community, providing access to halal meat, creating jobs, and supporting the agricultural industry in Minnesota.

Original Article:

West Central Tribune. (2025, April 20). Construction underway for Happy Halal in Willmar, Minnesota. https://www.wctrib.com/news/local/construction-underway-for-happy-halal-in-willmar-minnesota