Tyson halts production at beef facility while workers undergo coronavirus testing
On 23 April, Tyson Foods Inc temporarily shuttered production at its beef facility in Pasco, Washington to test workers for COVID-19.According to Reuters, this closure adds another facility to the list of idled and closed processing plants as the coronavirus pandemic continues.
On 22 April, the company announced temporary closures of two pork processing plants, including its largest in the US. This restricts meat supplies as other major slaughterhouses shut down to contain the virus.
The unit, Tyson Fresh Meats, said it was working with local health officials to test more than 1,400 workers at the Pasco plant, which produces enough beef in one day to feed four million people.
The closures are adding to stress on farmers as lockdowns prevent them from getting their produce to consumers.
Tyson said workers at the Pasco plant have been asked to self-isolate at home until test results return and they will continue to be compensated while the facility is closed.
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