A circular economy model where every resource has its place
At the crossroads of the dairy sector and meat production, veal is naturally part of a circular economy model. Food, cheese-making using rennet, leather, pharmaceuticals, biofuel: each resource has its place in a virtuous ecosystem where nothing is wasted.
While 55% of the calf’s mass is intended for human consumption, 43% often goes into unexpected applications. The hide (7%) is used in the leather industry. The fat (9%) is used in biofuel production, and a further 6% is used as a substitute for palm oil. The bones (6%) are used in the production of gelatine. The blood (1%) is put to use in the pharmaceutical industry. The remaining organs and bones (5%) are used in pet food. Finally, the contents of the rumen (9%), produced during slaughter, are used as biomass.
Thanks to these many interactions, the sector generates a significant number of jobs, more than some other areas of animal production. This dynamic plays an essential role in the local economy and in maintaining unique traditional know-how.
(Source: Célene data)
