Copperstone Foods to Launch Halal Beef Bacon Production in Nebraska

In a strategic move that reflects a shift in consumer appetites, Copperstone Foods of McCook is poised to breathe new life into a former Nebraska pie factory. This initiative aims to address the burgeoning global demand for Halal products. Copperstone Foods plans to transform the now-defunct Eustis facility, previously home to The Village PieMaker, into a bustling hub for Halal beef bacon production—a product designed to cater to both the Muslim community and health-conscious consumers seeking quality alternatives to traditional pork bacon.

The Transformation of The Village PieMaker Facility and Halal Beef Bacon

The Village PieMaker, a symbol of local entrepreneurship, was acquired by tycoon Joe Ricketts and ceased its Eustis operations in 2020, relocating its production line to Omaha. This facility, once known for its dried beef snacks under Copperstone Foods, is set to enter a new chapter. Copperstone Foods to launch Halal beef bacon production in Nebraska will overhaul the site, enabling it to process up to 30,000 pounds of beef bacon daily. This transition is expected to create approximately 18 full-time jobs, serving as a crucial boost to the local economy.

The project will also involve a significant expansion of the plant’s infrastructure. A 2,500-square-foot addition is planned to accommodate more refrigerated storage, necessary to support the company’s growth trajectory. This expansion reflects Copperstone Foods’ commitment to meeting increasing demand and ensuring efficient operations.

Embracing Modern Technology and Innovation

Copperstone Foods is committed to integrating modern technology into traditional food processing practices. The company plans to acquire advanced robotics for smoking and slicing beef bacon, enhancing efficiency and precision in production. This investment in cutting-edge technology highlights Copperstone Foods’ dedication to innovation and quality.

Cal Siegfried, President and Managing Partner of Copperstone, has strategically invested in a company already producing Halal beef bacon. Recognizing the exceptional potential of this specialty product, Siegfried aims to capitalize on the rapidly growing demand for Halal foods, which is expanding globally at a rate of 11% annually. This growth is driven by not only the increasing Muslim population but also a broader consumer base interested in high-quality, ethically produced goods.

The Untapped Potential of the Halal Market

In a largely untapped market, Siegfried sees an opportunity to serve a niche yet rapidly expanding customer base. Copperstone Foods’ venture into Halal-certified beef bacon production is supported by a substantial $15 million grant from the Dawson Public Power District, facilitated through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Meat and Poultry Intermediary Lending Program. This financial backing will fund necessary facility upgrades and the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment.

Beef bacon is made from “beef plates,” a cut traditionally less prized and often used for hamburger meat. By repurposing these cuts for bacon production, Copperstone Foods is not only increasing the value of beef plates but also offering a product with a robust, smoked flavor and reduced sodium content. This strategic shift from a commodity to a premium product demonstrates a responsive adaptation to market trends.

Commitment to Halal Standards and Quality

Copperstone Foods is committed to adhering to strict Halal guidelines during the production of its beef bacon. This includes ensuring ethical treatment of animals and avoiding the use of pork, intoxicants, and other forbidden substances. Although Omaha already hosts several Halal-certified meatpacking facilities, Copperstone Foods is in the process of finalizing its beef sources to ensure compliance with Halal standards and maintain high product quality.

The new beef bacon product will cater not only to Halal-specific markets but also to a broader audience seeking healthier and ethical meat options. The production is slated to begin in the summer of the following year, with the finished product set to be distributed to Crescent Foods in Chicago. Crescent Foods, a leader in Halal products for over 25 years, will serve as a key partner in bringing Copperstone Foods’ beef bacon to market.

Revitalizing a Small Town and Adapting to Global Trends

Copperstone Foods’ launch of Halal beef bacon production in Nebraska is not just about introducing a new product to the market but also about revitalizing the local industrial landscape. This venture underscores a broader narrative of adaptation and resilience within the American food production industry. By pivoting to meet global trends, Copperstone Foods exemplifies how regional businesses can adapt to changing consumer demands while addressing diverse needs and preferences. This project reflects the dynamic nature of the food industry, where innovation and responsiveness to market trends drive success and growth.

Copperstone Foods’ ambitious project to revive the Eustis pie factory and transform it into a beef bacon production facility highlights a strategic response to the growing global demand for Halal products. The initiative represents a significant investment in both technology and infrastructure, ensuring that Copperstone Foods can meet the needs of a diverse and expanding consumer base.

Through careful planning and substantial financial support, Copperstone Foods is set to make a significant impact on the local economy and the broader food industry. This venture not only promises to provide high-quality, ethically produced beef bacon but also serves as a testament to the potential for regional businesses to thrive in a globalized market.