In Lethbridge, to supply the Japan market, our selection process begins at the farm. We have a small number of hog producer partners who must pass quality trials before being accepted as a partner. After being accepted we contract with to supply only the best hogs to our facility. The Lethbridge hog payment grid is unique, as it pays a premium for hogs that are very consistently sized and provide a higher percentage of marbling.
These farms, from Southern Alberta, are supplying only LWD hogs to us. LWD genetics provide good marbling and meat quality which suits the Japanese demand.
Our producers are almost exclusively Hutterite family farms. Hutterites are proud and well known for being professional farmers with a focus on running top quality barns. As Hutterites also grow their own Barley and Wheat crops, they are able to ensure only the best quality grains from their onsite feed mills are fed to the hogs.
To ensure that we are continuously improving, the Lethbridge procurement team provides each producer a monthly scorecard. This scorecard lets the producer know how well they are performing. Among other things, it measures trailer and hog cleanliness, the driver’s proper handling of the hogs, and a measure of meat quality, which is all measured against other producers.