Largest pork producer in the US is now owned by a $22 billion Chinese meat processing company

Largest pork producer in the US is now owned by a $22 billion Chinese meat processing company

Smithfield Corporation, the largest pork producer in the United States, is a household name when it comes to processed meat. However, many consumers don't know that the company was purchased in 2013 by WH Foods, a $22 billion Chinese meat processing company. This acquisition has raised concerns about the impact of foreign control over a major player in the American food industry, as well as the environmental and social consequences of Smithfield's factory farming practices.

Background and acquisition

Smithfield Corporation, headquartered in Smithfield, Virginia, is known for its sausages, roasts, ribs, bacon and more. In 2013, it was purchased by WH Foods of China, a company that had sales of $22.3 billion in 2017. The acquisition allowed WH Foods to expand its global presence and ensure a constant supply of pork for the Chinese market, which has been affected by African swine fever and declining pig populations. Smithfield doesn't disclose the exact amount of meat it exports to China, but the company has sold about 38.8 million pounds of pork to the country in just a few months.

Environmental consequences

Smithfield Foods' factory farming practices have been investigated for the environmental damage they cause. In 2017, drone footage revealed a large "lake" the size of a football stadium filled with urine and feces from pigs at the company's largest pig breeding facility. The footage, secretly shot by Mark Devries as part of his investigative documentary Speciesism: The Movie, reveals the harsh conditions in which pigs are raised, crammed into long buildings and unable to move. The waste generated by these factory farms is disposed of by spraying it into the air, which has a detrimental effect on the surrounding area.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also cited Smithfield Foods for violations of the Clean Water Act. In 1997, the company was fined $12.6 million for discharging pollutants into Virginia's Pagan River. Despite these incidents, Smithfield maintains that its practices are compliant and that its facilities are clean and well-maintained.

Social implications

The communities surrounding Smithfield's factory farms are predominantly low-income families, who bear the brunt of the pollution and health risks associated with these practices. Dr. Steve Wing of the University of North Carolina explains that the waste sprayed into the air can travel into neighboring communities and cause respiratory problems and other health problems. Studies have found higher rates of asthma and respiratory symptoms among children and adults living near these facilities.

These communities often lack the resources to defend themselves against a large corporation like Smithfield. They are forced to endure the unbearable smell and live with doors and windows closed to minimize exposure to the toxic waste. The social injustice faced by these communities shines a light on the broader problem of environmental racism, in which marginalized populations are disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental hazards.

Economic impact and historical context

WH Foods' acquisition of Smithfield raises concerns about foreign control over a significant portion of the American food supply. Similar concerns arose in the 1980s when Japanese companies began buying American companies, including the famous Rockefeller Center in New York. Critics argue that foreign ownership of critical industries can undermine national security and economic stability.

However, proponents of globalization point to the economic benefits of foreign investment, including job creation and increased trade opportunities. In Smithfield's case, the acquisition expanded the company's reach in the global market and provided a steady stream of revenue from Chinese consumers.

WH Foods' purchase of Smithfield Corporation has drawn attention to the environmental, social and economic impacts of foreign ownership in the American food industry. The practices of factory farmingSmithfield employees have caused significant environmental damage and negatively impacted the health and quality of life of surrounding communities. These issues highlight the need for increased regulation and oversight to protect both the environment and the well-being of those affected by the industry's practices.

Additionally, the acquisition has raised concerns about foreign control over critical industries in the United States. While foreign investment can bring economic benefits, it is important to carefully weigh these benefits against potential risks to national security and economic stability.

The Smithfield case serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting the importance of transparency in the food industry and the need for greater corporate social responsibility. Consumers have the power to demand change through their purchasing decisions by supporting companies that prioritize sustainable, ethical and environmentally friendly practices. As awareness of the hidden costs of factory farming and foreign ownership grows, it is critical for both policymakers and consumers to take action to protect the environment, ensure food security and promote social justice.

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