Humble Beginnings

Hertel's Meats Story

Hertel Meats Ltd. was created in 1967, a small family enterprise processing beef, pork and game for local farmers and hunters. Within 10 years a major plant expansion was completed and the facility was operating under the strict guidelines of the Canadian Federal Inspection Agency providing full time employment for many local people, some of whom, along with family members, are still employed. Strong growth continued and in 1980, Tom and his wife Helena established Hertel Meats as a limited company.

In the mid 80’s, Tom Hertel recognized and responded to a need he saw in his customers, developing Hertel’s now renowned line of fresh sausages processed without wheat gluten, lactose (milk) products, or artificial preservatives. He also created a naturally smoked bacon cured without the use of sodium nitrite, nitrate or other chemical preservatives which quickly established itself as a top seller and remains in high demand today. Hertels was also a pioneer in the production of products seasoned without the use of Monosodium Glutamate. (MSG), a trend that was soon imitated by many other major meat processing plants.

The reputation and success of Hertel Meats LTD can be directly attributed to the old fashioned family work ethic of the founders, Thomas and Helena Hertel. Due to the dedication of himself and his family, the name “Hertel’s” has become synonymous with top quality, freshness and service.

Hertel Meats is renowned among Vancouver Island and Lower Mainland Grocery Retailers for the freshness and availability of their top quality wholesale fresh pork cuts.Tom’s son in law, Ron Caldwell, has been the general manager for the past 10 years. He is also the head sausage maker, ensuring the continuing high quality that our loyal customers have come to know they can depend on.

Testimonials

Our Happy Customers

Here is what people have to say about Hertel’s products!

For some years now you have made it possible for allergic people like myself to enjoy a good breakfast sausage. Your products, gluten & dairy free, no MSG, no preservatives are something special.Thanks so much for making this product.

Nina C
Chillwack, BC

I’m writing to let you know how much we enjoy your bacon & sausages etc. We’ve never had a bacon or meat product we didn’t enjoy… Thanks for your super good meat. May your business grow and keep up the great work.

Wilma M
Nanaimo, BC

Locally Produced Gourmet Products

Double smoked with natural hardwood chips, no liquid smoke, no MSG, no dairy products, gluten free available, and perfect for the 100 mile diet!

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