Quorn CEO Raises Concerns Over Cranswick’s Norfolk Farm Plans in Methwold
In a surprising turn of events, a quiet Norfolk village finds itself at the heart of a clash between a vegetarian food powerhouse and a colossal meat farming entity.
Quorn’s CEO, Marco Bertacca, has launched a stern objection against Cranswick’s controversial proposal to establish two colossal farms, expected to rear millions of chickens and thousands of pigs annually, adjacent to its Methwold site in Norfolk.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to West Norfolk Council, Bertacca voiced apprehensions that these large-scale farms could jeopardize Quorn’s business operations.
While Cranswick refrained from directly responding to Quorn’s objections, they previously stated that these farms would be “sustainable and modern,” contributing to affordable food production, job creation, and local economic upliftment.
This dispute has garnered extensive attention, with tens of thousands expressing dissent, including involvement from animal welfare group PETA.
Among Quorn’s numerous concerns are the potential impact on air quality and pest control measures, affecting the well-being of its 300-strong workforce, as well as the potential threat to food safety standards.
Bertacca emphasized, ”
“I have deep concerns about the impact the proposed development will have on our people and on our ability to continue to operate at our Methwold site.
“Approval of these developments will have a negative impact on Quorn Foods and our ability to continue to operate.
“We hope West Norfolk Council will reject these applications in their entirety.”
The opposition has been steadily growing within the communities of Methwold and Feltwell. A local advocacy group has been mobilizing residents to voice their objections to the farms.
The submitted plans, currently with West Norfolk Council, propose 20 sheds accommodating 870,000 chickens, along with 14 structures for 14,000 pigs on land formerly occupied by an RAF base.
Residents are apprehensive about potential adverse environmental effects, increased traffic on rural roads, and the possibility of an upswing in pest populations in the villages.
The Cranswick Objection Group’s spokesperson expressed gratitude for the support received, underscoring the magnitude of these farms’ impact on local lives.
This proposal has not only drawn ire from various animal welfare groups, including PETA UK, whose petition opposing the farms has amassed over 26,000 signatures, but has also ignited a broader debate among West Norfolk councillors about its alignment with the district’s emission reduction goals and ‘net zero’ targets.
While a decision was expected in the coming months, it has recently been postponed. According to a council spokesperson, this delay is due to the need for “further environmental information,” anticipated to be provided before year-end.
Additional Information:
Quorn utilises fungus in the creation of its ‘mycoprotein,’ a key ingredient in its meat-free products. While some of its range incorporates egg whites for binding purposes, the Methwold site, operating for a quarter-century and employing about 300 personnel, remains a cornerstone of Quorn’s operations.
Founded in Stokesley, North Yorkshire, Quorn has recently expanded to a substantial facility in Billingham, north of Middlesborough. The journey of this ‘revolutionary’ food began in 1985, culminating in its UK launch in 1993.
With the surge in demand for meat-free products, Quorn has experienced significant growth and is projected to reach billion-dollar status by 2027. Its origins trace back to an early 20th-century food company named after the Leicestershire village of Quorn, later integrated into parent company Marlow Foods, as elucidated by a local historian from the region.
We do hope that the information we were able to provide you is helpful. Check out other unique articles on our blog for more detailed information and do well to share with your friends and family. Follow us on our Twitter and Facebook to stay updated with premium details.
Please leave any comments or questions in the area given below.
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in AgriTalker are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of AgriTalker. Any content provided by our bloggers or authors is of their opinion and is not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual, or anyone or anything.
Information is presented to the best of our knowledge and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability concerning the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Therefore, any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.
EXTRA: Be sure to consistently check https://www.agritalker.com/ for an abundance of valuable resources, including tips, news, and updates on agriculture and farming practices to stay informed and enhance your expertise
