WACO, Texas – Cargill recently decided to end fresh and frozen whole turkey production at the company’s Turkey & Cooked Meats facility in Waco, Texas, in November this year.

In a statement, company spokesman Daniel Sullivan explained that the cooked meats facility, which produces pre-sliced and other deli products, will continue operating. According to the company’s website, the plant was established in 1965. Approximately 27,000 turkeys are processed at the 381,000-sq.-ft. facility each day. More than 650 people work at the plant.

“The decision to end any operation is never easy, however it was made upon careful consideration,” Sullivan said, adding that the majority of employees were offered other positions.

“Our turkey production footprint will ensure we serve customers from our other facilities as we deliver high-quality products for the holiday season and beyond,” the statement continued. “As one of the largest turkey producers in the US, we are committed to the success of our customers and our turkey business.”

Cargill is one of the largest turkey producers and processors in the in US, with major operations in Virginia, Missouri, Arkansas, Texas, Nebraska and Minnesota. The company sells turkey products under the Honeysuckle White and Shady Brook Farms brands.