Jamaicans will, in less than two week, have two new locally-produced protein value packages to choose from says the Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Pearnel Charles Jr.

“These two new products are being launched into the wholesale trade imminently and will be in the freezers and on the shelves within two weeks,” Charles Jr said.

He was speaking on May 17 during his contribution to the 2022/23 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives. He said introducing new protein in the marketplace is aimed at strengthening food security.

The minister reasoned that food availability is necessary but insufficient for food security and that sources of supply beyond one’s control represent real points of weakness in any supply chain.

“In seeking to protect the vulnerable in our population we continue to import low cost protein in the form of chicken neck and back to meet a critical price point in protein supply.

“But providing local products in the low cost price range will not only maintain a level of social protection while keeping economic and employment benefits at home but will increase the reliability of the supply chain. Improved food security is within our grasp,” Charles Jr stated.

He told the House that “after many discussions with the producers and after much research and production trials, the poultry sector will be adding two new value pack products to the marketplace, while reducing their margins…”.

“The reduced price margins represents a win-win for all concerned as we facilitate the consumer up the value chain with increasing employment and disposable income to a more nutritious product for a healthier lifestyle,” the minister added.