The female vision in the pork and poultry industry
In the context of International Women’s Day, celebrated on March 8th, it is fitting to highlight the growing and decisive role that women play in the pork and poultry industry.
The meat industry faces diverse challenges, ranging from the need to adapt to emerging technologies and develop new products to meeting high standards in animal health, safety, and sustainability. María José Irarrázaval, Director of ChileCarne and ASPROCER, and Jimena Allende Vial, Director of Empresas AASA, agree that sustainable production and maintaining positive relationships with empowered communities are paramount challenges. Transparency, legality, and mutual understanding emerge as essential pillars to tackle these difficulties.
María José Irarrázaval emphasizes, “The meat industry has been exposed to constant changes and various challenges, which it has navigated by adopting technologies and creating new products. Sustainability is one such challenge, requiring a cultural shift in work practices and resources for implementation. Today, the primary challenge lies in sustainable production that doesn’t negatively impact communities, necessitating progress in territorial planning.”
Jimena Allende Vial adds, “The world demands more and better food each day—convenient, affordable, and responsibly produced. Beyond the challenges faced by any business, our industry must maintain excellent relationships with increasingly empowered communities and demanding authorities. Legal compliance, technical aspects, objective evidence, and mutual trust should prevail.”
Ximena Cáceres, Head of Sustainability at Agrícola Santa Lucía de Maxagro, highlights another challenge: “In my role, I envision making production increasingly sustainable through actions like reducing CO2 emissions, optimizing energy and water usage, and strengthening community ties. At Maxagro, we actively engage in these areas through community relations programs, measuring our carbon footprint, and reducing water consumption by 30% since 2014.”
The inclusion of more women in this industry has led to a cultural shift in work practices. Companies now foster inclusive and welcoming work environments for women, implementing policies to ensure equal opportunities. As women continue to rise in leadership roles, they not only contribute to the industry’s transformation but also leave behind a legacy of progress and innovation.
In summary, the female vision in the pork and poultry industry is shaping a more sustainable, transparent, and community-oriented future—one where challenges are met head-on, and legacies are built through collaboration and determination.
