As Chobani Expands, Magic Valley Dairies Prepare for Increased Production
Source: dairynews.today
Chobani's Twin Falls plant plans to boost milk usage from 4 million pounds to 12 million pounds daily, posing opportunities and challenges related to immigration and labor force stability.
Chobani's Twin Falls facility is set to significantly increase its production capabilities, tripling its milk usage from 4 million to 12 million pounds daily as part of its new expansion. This growth has prompted dairies across the Magic Valley to prepare for increased production.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, state officials discussed sourcing additional milk. Rick Naerbout, CEO of the Idaho Dairy Producers Association, emphasized the need for immigration solutions to support the agricultural workforce, particularly in light of recent declines in illegal border crossings.
Naerbout stated, "If Hamdi builds it, we’ll fill it with milk," highlighting concerns about the impact of President Trump's immigration crackdown on local dairy labor. He advocates for legislative measures that would facilitate legal entry for agricultural workers.
Chobani collaborates with the Refugee Center to offer employment opportunities to resettled individuals, providing a crucial lifeline for many looking to build self-sufficient lives in the U.S. Refugee Program Director Chandra Upretti stressed the importance of employment for refugees, stating it provides hope beyond income. Furthermore, Idaho Governor Brad Little called for clear immigration policies, mentioning the success of the H-2A guest worker program in the sheep industry as a potential model for dairy.
Little remarked, "We absolutely have to get the border closed down and these troublemakers out," but also highlighted the need for stability through such programs. This expansion by Chobani reflects broader themes within the U.S. dairy industry, including growth potential and the complexities of immigration reform.
During the groundbreaking ceremony, state officials discussed sourcing additional milk. Rick Naerbout, CEO of the Idaho Dairy Producers Association, emphasized the need for immigration solutions to support the agricultural workforce, particularly in light of recent declines in illegal border crossings.
Naerbout stated, "If Hamdi builds it, we’ll fill it with milk," highlighting concerns about the impact of President Trump's immigration crackdown on local dairy labor. He advocates for legislative measures that would facilitate legal entry for agricultural workers.
Chobani collaborates with the Refugee Center to offer employment opportunities to resettled individuals, providing a crucial lifeline for many looking to build self-sufficient lives in the U.S. Refugee Program Director Chandra Upretti stressed the importance of employment for refugees, stating it provides hope beyond income. Furthermore, Idaho Governor Brad Little called for clear immigration policies, mentioning the success of the H-2A guest worker program in the sheep industry as a potential model for dairy.
Little remarked, "We absolutely have to get the border closed down and these troublemakers out," but also highlighted the need for stability through such programs. This expansion by Chobani reflects broader themes within the U.S. dairy industry, including growth potential and the complexities of immigration reform.
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