(Updates with JBS's response from fourth paragraph onwards.)

JBS (JBS) workers have launched what a union said is the first US meatpacking strike in four decades, with employees at a Colorado beef plant walking out over pay and charges for safety equipment, Reuters reported Tuesday.

The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 said the workers began a two-week strike at the Greeley facility, the report said.

JBS said it had made a fair offer and the company had reduced production ahead of the strike, the report said.

In a statement to MT Newswires, a JBS spokesperson said hundreds of employees reported to work and the Greeley facility continued operating successfully.

"We are grateful to our team members who continue to support our operations, and we will pay all employees who choose to come to work during this time," the spokesperson said.

"Our focus remains on running the facility as effectively as possible throughout the week and supporting team members who want stability, want to provide for their families, and want the chance to vote on the company's historic offer - a vote union leadership has not allowed," the spokesperson added.

The spokesperson said the proposal is aligned with a 2025 national agreement with the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union, which it said has delivered wage increases, pension security, and long-term financial stability for more than 25,000 JBS employees.

"Local 7's refusal to allow a vote prevents Greeley employees from having a direct say in their own future," the spokesperson said.

Additionally, the spokesperson said JBS is adjusting production across its network to ensure supply continuity, adding that capacity at other facilities will help minimize disruption for customers and retailers.

United Food and Commercial Workers Local 7 did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment.

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