As an experienced home renovator who knows the importance of using quality materials, I’m fascinated by massive global companies like JBS that provide the key ingredients we use in our everyday lives. In this guide, I‘ll provide an in-depth look at JBS, the largest animal protein processor in the world, and explore the incredible variety of meat products made by this meat processing powerhouse.
All About JBS – From Humble Origins to Industry Dominance
Founded in 1953 by rancher Josė Batista Sobrinho in Anįpolis, Brazil, JBS has grown from a small family business into a multinational food processing giant. After gaining success in South America, JBS expanded globally through acquisitions of major meat companies like Swift Foods in 2007 and Pilgrim’s Pride in 2009.
Today, JBS employs over 200,000 people worldwide and operates over 300 production facilities and offices in 20 countries across the Americas, Australia, Europe, and Asia. According to its 2020 annual report, JBS achieved net revenue of $49.7 billion and generated EBITDA of $4.3 billion.
Led by CEO Gilberto Tomazoni, JBS has reached dominant positions in beef, pork, and poultry processing:
- Largest global beef processor, with capacity to process 134,000 cattle per day
- Largest pork processor in the U.S., processing over 500,000 pigs per week
- 2nd largest chicken processor globally after Tyson Foods
By acquiring regional meat companies around the world, JBS now enjoys vast economies of scale and supplies meat to over 300,000 customers in 150+ countries.
The Mind-Boggling Scale of JBS‘ Production Capacity
To provide some perspective on how massive JBS‘ production levels are, here are a few staggering facts about their processing capacities:
- 134,000 cattle, 44,000 hogs, and 12 million chickens processed per day
- Beef production capacity of 14.2 million tons per year
- Pork capacity of 5.5 million tons annually
- Chicken capacity of 4.5 million tons annually
That‘s a whole lot of meat! As one of the largest renovators in my city, I regularly deal with huge material requirements for projects. But JBS’ production volumes are on a whole different level.
To achieve these incredible throughput numbers, JBS leverages innovative technology like automation, robotics, big data analytics, and the internet of things across its global operations. Their scale and operational excellence enables remarkably low costs and high yields.
The Many Types of Meat Products Made by JBS
From classic beef cuts to ready-to-eat meals, JBS produces an incredibly diverse range of products across multiple protein categories. Here is a closer look at their major product lines:
Beef
- Fresh beef – All the primal and subprimal cuts like chuck, rib, loin, round, brisket. Also various steaks, roasts and other retail-ready cuts.
- Ground beef – Ground beef and patties for retail and foodservice. Makes hamburger meat for major fast food chains.
- Processed beef – Includes corned beef, beef jerky, canned meats. Supplies pizza toppings, crumbles and prepared beef items.
- Organic – Organic beef cuts and ground meat.
Pork
- Fresh pork – Loins, hams, bellies, shoulders, trims used for chops, roasts, ribs.
- Bacon – Leading producer and supplier of bacon.
- Hot dogs & sausages – Various wieners, sausages, salami and deli meats. Brands like BallPark, Johnsonville.
- Ground pork – Bulk ground pork for retail and foodservice.
Chicken
- Fresh chicken – Whole chickens, chicken parts like breasts, thighs, etc.
- Prepared chicken – Value added items like nuggets, patties, tenders, wings. Brands like Pilgrim‘s.
- Organic & free-range – Higher-end organic and free-range chicken.
Lamb
- Fresh lamb – Whole and half carcasses, meat cuts, ground lamb.
Prepared Foods
- Ready meals – Meat based prepared meals like lasagnas, pizzas,burgers, meat pies.
- Canned foods – Canned meats, seafood, fruits and vegetables. Brands like Ranch Hand.
- Dairy – Milk, milk shakes, yogurt under brands like Pilgrim‘s Pride.
JBS sells these products globally under famous brands like Friboi, Primo, Just Bare Chicken, 1855, and more. Their attention to quality, safety and innovation allows JBS to deliver delicious flavors in both fresh and prepared forms.
JBS‘ Production Facilities and Operations in the United States
As a major presence in the U.S., JBS operates over 50 processing plants and employs over 50,000 people across the following states:
| State | Key Plants |
|---|---|
| Arizona | Phoenix |
| California | Fresno, Rural Vacaville |
| Colorado | Greeley |
| Florida | Eagle Lake, Haines City |
| Georgia | Tifton |
| Illinois | Beardstown |
| Iowa | Ottumwa |
| Kansas | Liberal, Coffeyville |
| Minnesota | Worthington |
| Missouri | Holden |
| Nebraska | Grand Island |
| North Carolina | Tarheel |
| Ohio | Canton, St.Clairsville |
| Pennsylvania | Jessup |
| South Dakota | Sioux Falls |
| Texas | Cactus, Mt. Pleasant |
| Utah | Hyrum |
| Wisconsin | Green Bay |
With such an expansive U.S. operational footprint, JBS has leading market shares across beef, pork, and poultry:
- 23% of U.S. beef processing capacity
- 20% of pork capacity
- 16% of chicken capacity
JBS USA has major brands like Swift Premium, 1855, Clear River Farms, and Pilgrim‘s Pride. Their products are staples across American grocery stores, restaurants and home kitchens!
Why JBS Has Earned Consumer Trust
In my experience, using reliable high-quality materials is essential for successful renovations. JBS understands this and has made major investments to improve their products and processes:
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Certified facilities – Many JBS plants hold SQF, BRC and other certifications for food safety and quality. This demonstrates adherence to rigorous standards.
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Sustainability efforts – JBS is working to reduce its environmental impact through renewable energy usage, waste reduction, recycling programs and sustainable packaging.
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Animal care – Through training, auditing and standard setting, JBS aims to ensure responsible and humane treatment of all animals in its supply chain. This is critical for an ethical business.
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Quality obsession – By utilizing technology and data analysis, JBS can closely monitor product attributes like marbling, color and texture to deliver perfect quality.
With this dedication to continuous improvement, it‘s no wonder JBS has become a trusted supplier of delicious meats to consumers, restaurants and brands worldwide. The breadth of their product range is seriously mind-blowing!
References
JBS 2020 Annual Report
JBS Company Profile on Craft.co
https://www.provisioneronline.com/articles/102130-meet-the-top-25-meat-and-poultry-processors
