By Belize Live News Staff: Chicken, a staple in the Belizean diet and the national dish, enjoys immense popularity across the country. With an average annual consumption of approximately 109 pounds per person, the demand for this affordable protein source remains consistently high. Recognizing this trend, Caribbean Chicken, a leading poultry processor in Belize, has embarked on an expansion project to augment its cold storage capacity.
On Thursday, the Minister of Agriculture, Jose Mai, and his technical team were given a tour of Caribbean Chicken’s facility in Blue Creek. The minister expressed his admiration for the company’s progress and commitment to meeting the nation’s food security needs.
“Their sales have been increasing annually, necessitating expansion,” Minister Mai noted. “Their contribution to food security and employment is commendable, with nearly 200 employees at this facility and around 500 across the country.”
The minister also highlighted the positive impact of the government’s minimum wage increase on consumer choices, stating that the sales of whole chickens have risen while the demand for cheaper cuts like neck and back has decreased.
Gerhard Friesen, Chairman of Caribbean Chicken, emphasized the company’s dedication to quality and their appreciation for the government’s support.
“Our aim is to provide the highest quality chicken to consumers nationwide,” Friesen stated. The expansion of their cold storage facility is expected to be completed by the end of the year, ensuring they can keep pace with the rising demand for their products in the coming years.
