Vertically integrated venture positioned to meet evolving global demands for fats and oils.
Tyson Fresh Meats, the beef and pork subsidiary of Tyson Foods, and Jacob Stern & Sons have launched a joint venture, JST Global, to serve the worldwide fats and oils market.
Beef and pork by-products of the fresh meats business, along with fats and oils derived from other sources, are key ingredients in a variety of products in such diverse industries as pharmaceuticals, personal care, and animal nutrition, plus the rapidly developing field of renewable fuels.
Phil Bernstein, chairman, Jacob Stern & Sons, commented: “Jacob Stern and Tyson Fresh Meats have enjoyed a strong relationship for over 50 years. Combining Tyson’s vast supply of animal fats with Jacob Stern’s Texas operations is a natural evolution and positions JST Global to meet growing worldwide demand.”
Tyson Fresh Meats, based in Dakota Dunes, South Dakota, the US, currently operates six beef plants and six pork plants in the US. Jacob Stern & Sons is among Tyson’s customers for animal by-products and is one of the leading US processor and marketer of animal fats.
Steve Stouffer, group president, Tyson Fresh Meats, added: “Responsibly processing fats and oils are a key part of our business and our commitment to sustainability. This joint venture gives us the opportunity to continue to value-up beef and pork production, enabling us to innovate in new untapped markets while continuing to work directly with existing animal fat customers and the emerging renewable energy market.”
Following a transition period, the marketing of all animal fats generated by Tyson Fresh Meats will be conducted by JST Global teams in Houston, Dakota Dunes, and Omaha. Jay Van Valen, formerly president of Jacob Stern & Sons’ Texas division, will serve as CEO of JST Global, which will maintain its headquarters in Houston.
Van Valen concluded: “With a secured supply, JST Global is strongly positioned to address the global demand for commodity and value-added animal fat. JST Global’s scale and broad capabilities are key differentiators that will allow us to deliver customised solutions, particularly in highly specialised markets such as renewable energy.”
