DOWNERS GROVE, IL — The Hillshire Brands Company announced it is actively engaged in advancing continuous, fact-based discussions with its suppliers and the industry in general, on alternatives to traditional gestational housing and intend to have this solution in place by the end of 2022. Though Hillshire Brands does not raise pigs, the company’s plan is to source all pork from suppliers who use housing that provides the animals the opportunity for adequate movement and comfort, while also ensuring their safety. Hillshire Brands’ goal is for our suppliers to combine quality animal care and worker safety with solutions that are adaptable for farm family operations of all sizes.
“Hillshire Brands takes concerns about the welfare of animals seriously, which is why we have a comprehensive Animal Well-Being Program in place,” said Mike Cummins, director of corporate communications, Hillshire Brands. “We know we share a responsibility to ensure the meat we sell is safe and that it comes from animals raised in a humane way.”
All of Hillshire Brands’ meat suppliers must complete appropriate audits and certifications before they can work with the company. These are in addition to the supplier’s routine animal well-being inspections performed by the United States Division of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service professionals.
About The Hillshire Brands Company
The Hillshire Brands Company (NYSE: HSH) is a leader in meat-centric food solutions for the retail and foodservice markets. The company generates nearly $4 billion in annual sales and has approximately 9,500 employees. Hillshire Brands’ portfolio includes iconic brands such as Jimmy Dean, Ball Park, Hillshire Farm, State Fair, Sara Lee frozen bakery and Chef Pierre pies, as well as artisanal brands Aidells and Gallo Salame. The company, formerly known as Sara Lee Corporation, began trading under the “HSH” ticker symbol on June 29, 2012, following the successful spin-off of its international coffee and tea business. For more information on the company, please visit www.hillshirebrands.com
Source: The Hillshire Brands Company
