Deerview Meats receives Gold Status
Published on November 24, 2011
Deerview Meats, southeast Alberta’s only provincially inspected facility has recently received Gold Status following an intensive facility audit. The results from the Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP) based program position Deerview as one of the top meat processing facilities in Alberta.
Randy Lehr, chair of the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of Southeast Alberta's Agriculture Committee congratulated owners Perry and Chris Deering on receiving Gold Status.
“They put so much work into it; their heart and soul, and life savings,” said Lehr. “The determination and skill they put into the facility, the research and training have all been combined into producing a first class facility. It’s great to see their work being awarded.”
Official Gold Status was given on October 25, 2011 following a facility audit which reviewed manufacturing controls, meat processing procedures and food safety measures. Gold status represents an audit score between 90-100%. Deerview Meats scored 97%, making the facility one of the few in the province to receive this status. Receiving Gold Status is quite impressive considering Deerview Meats only opened its facility earlier this year.
Prior to Deerview Meats, there was a significant need for a regional abattoir. Recognizing the demand for this type of facility the EDA helped by working closely with them throughout the business planning process as well as with local government officials.
When asked to comment on Deerviews impact on Cypress County and the region, Lehr explained that, “despite some setbacks, they bounced back and kept pushing forward to get the plant open. Deerview provides a much needed service for our local ranching community, and has helped support local people who market their own products. The impact that they have had on this area has been tremendous.”
Through public funding, the Economic Development Alliance (EDA) of Southeast Alberta offers business services at no cost to local industry. To find out how the EDA can help your company, contact 403-488-7015 or info@edalliance.ca.