Brazil rains disrupt meat processing in key southern state - industry group (updated)

BRF SA

03/05/2024 21:28

(Adds impact on meat processors)
    By Roberto Samora
       SAO PAULO, May 3 (Reuters) - Heavy rains and flooding in
Brazil's southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul have reduced or
paralyzed chicken and pork slaughtering at multiple meatpacking
facilities, according to industry groups on Friday.
    Global meat companies including JBS SA  JBSS3.SA  and BRF SA
 JBSS3.SA  operate in the region, where entire towns have
submerged and roads were totally or partially blocked by the
unprecedented downpours. 
    Some 12 chicken processors were affected, Jose Santos, head
of a local poultry lobby, said. 
    Five pork processors have been impacted by lack of animals
for slaughtering and dwindling animal feed stocks, said Rogerio
Kerber, head of a lobby group representing producers, referring
to disruptions in the heavily hit Taquari river valley. 
    Rio Grande do Sul is one of Brazil's largest chicken and
pork producers and exporters.

 (Reporting by Roberto Samora
Writing by Ana Mano, Editing by Franklin Paul and Alistair Bell)
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