Hormel Foods Corporation announced Jennie-O Turkey Store, Inc., "will temporarily pause operations at its Willmar Avenue and its Benson Avenue facilities, both located in Willmar, Minn."

"Based on information about the community spread of COVID-19 in the area, the company decided it was the right decision to pause operations to undergo a facility-wide cleaning that will enhance already robust safety and sanitization protocols. Under its pay program, all Jennie-O Turkey Store employees will continue to receive 100 percent of their base pay and benefits during the pause in production. Jennie-O Turkey Store is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Hormel Foods Corporation."

Steve Lykken, president of Jennie-O Turkey Store, said, "The health, well-being and safety of our team members is our top priority. Out of an abundance of caution, we have decided to take a pause in operations."

"We are being thoughtful and considerate in our approach to this process. I want to recognize our production professionals for continuing to do an outstanding job as they work to keep food on tables during this unprecedented time. I am very proud of them and I look forward to being back together as soon as we are able."

"During this pause, we will maintain our thorough food processing sanitation practices, as well as the enhanced procedures that we have been employing since the emergence of COVID-19. The facilities will be deep cleaned, including all common areas and high-touch surfaces," Lykken added.