SIOUX CENTER, Iowa – Perdue Premium Meat Company (PPMC), a subsidiary of Perdue Farms, announced it recently completed a $29 million expansion of its pork harvest facility in Sioux Center, Iowa.

The company said the updated plant includes modernized equipment, innovative case-ready offers and new benefits to help employee wellbeing and the environment.

“This expansion of the PPMC processing facility builds on our 20-year leadership in the custom pork processing business,” said Gary Malenke, senior vice president of Perdue Premium Pork Operations. “The growth allows for new case-ready production that will allow for exciting new options for our customers looking to have their products stand out on the shelf.”

The Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) board approved direct financial assistance and tax incentives for a plant expansion project at Sioux-Preme Packing Co. Inc. In August 2018, Sioux-Preme received incentives from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA).

PPMC confirmed it added two-stories and 50,000 sq. ft. during the expansion. The company also reported that 50 jobs will be added to the plant when its fully operational 

New additions allow PPMC to harvest, break down and package products into ground pork, pork chops and other pork items. The company said this method will improve efficiencies and create a simpler process for both customers and the plant.

In addition, the Sioux Center expansion comes with new equipment for packaging that provides longer shelf life, improved product presentation and recyclable components.

The plant’s improvements will also include enhanced employee safety features and expanded employee wellness programs. These include an on-site wellness center, a new training center for staff, improved ergonomic equipment and an expanded cafeteria. 

Perdue Farms acquired the facility in 2015 as part of its acquisition of Natural Food Holdings and Sioux-Preme Packing Co Inc.

The Sioux Center facility runs on 100 percent wind power and uses a closed-loop wastewater system that filters and recycles to provide nutrients to surrounding farmland. PPMC also said the plant is a Certified Humane and incorporates several practices that go farther than industry standards, including live video feed monitored by a third party.