Outbreaks at two southern Alberta meat-processing plants this spring made hundreds of people sick with COVID-19. 

For one Alberta rancher, the COVID-19 pandemic hasn't had a serious effect yet, but he's anticipating it will be tougher when the calves are sold in the fall.

Activists gathered outside the Cargill meat-packing plant in High River, Alta., on Saturday, protesting working conditions they call unsafe and exploitative because of the COVID-19 outbreak at the facility.

Benito Quesada's four children are struggling without their father. His wife, now a widow, is worried about the family's future. Quesada worked at Cargill and died after testing positive for COVID-19.

Chris White, president of the Canadian Meat Council, says $77.5 million earmarked by Ottawa for the food-processing industry will be used for future changes to plants, not to pay for measures already put in place.

Beef analysts expect changes in meat prices and supply in Canada following disruptions to the industry amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The second Cargill worker who became infected with COVID-19 and passed away has been identified. The husband and father of three is described as a gentle, humble man.

A food supply chain expert says disruptions, caused by the coronavirus at major meat processing plants, won't dramatically increase beef prices in Canada.

Alberta's Opposition NDP, along with union leaders, is calling on the province to shut down a Cargill meat-packing plant so it can be determined whether the company is meeting legal obligations to involve workers in safety concerns.

Cargill has been given until May 18 to complete its investigation with worker participation.