Canadian Beef Processor Receives $1.63 Million to Expand Halal Production Capacity
Atlantic Beef Products has obtained federal funding of up to US$1.63 million to enhance halal beef processing capabilities at its federally licensed operation in Prince Edward Island.
The financing comes through Canada’s Kosher and Halal Investment Programme, which assists domestic processors operating in faith-based food sectors.
The company intends to allocate these funds at its Albany facility, where new processing and packaging infrastructure will be implemented to facilitate halal-certified production.
Based on project specifications, the improvements aim to boost processing volume, enhance yield extraction, minimize waste, and enable production of retail-ready halal beef items.
The investment arrives during a period of continuous growth in halal food demand throughout Canada, especially within urban retail and foodservice categories.
Federal representatives indicated the programme helps processors modify facilities to satisfy specific religious certification standards while maintaining Canadian-based production.
Addressing the announcement, Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald characterized the project as part of wider initiatives to modernize food processing infrastructure and broaden market opportunities for Canadian products.
Facility Improvements and Technology Integration
Atlantic Beef Products verified that the project encompasses installing steam vacuum systems designed to enhance sanitation and food safety standards.
The operation will also incorporate upgraded meat recovery machinery to maximize usable yield from each carcass.
Packaging systems will be adapted to handle a broader selection of halal-certified products designated for retail channels.
Furthermore, an in-line X-ray analyzer will be integrated to refine fat-content measurement and reinforce product safety protocols.
Company president and chief executive officer Russ Mallard noted the equipment will enable the business to process and package halal products completely on-site while satisfying certification requirements.
The project additionally corresponds with the federal Buy Canadian Policy, which emphasizes domestically manufactured goods in government purchasing.
Officials have connected the policy to initiatives strengthening domestic supply networks and expanding access to Canadian-processed food items.
Regional Impact
Atlantic Beef Products currently manages the sole federally registered beef processing operation east of Quebec.
The facility handles up to 750 head of cattle weekly, obtaining livestock from producers throughout Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.
Established in 2003, the company provides employment for approximately 180 individuals, positioning it among the region’s larger agri-food employers.
Industry observers suggested the investment will likely expand halal processing capacity within Atlantic Canada and benefit local cattle producers supplying the facility.
They noted that increased domestic halal production could decrease dependence on imported products and enhance availability for Canadian consumers.
Source:
FoodBusiness MEA. (2026). Atlantic Beef Products receives US$1.63m federal funding for halal processing expansion. FoodBusiness MEA.
https://www.foodbusinessmea.com/atlantic-beef-products-receives-us1-63m-federal-funding-for-halal-processing-expansion/
