US meat products manufacturer Home Market Foods (HMF) has acquired a former pasta plant in Connecticut for an undisclosed sum.

The meatballs, hot dogs and sausages producer said it plans to spend more than $70m upgrading the former Carla's Pasta production facility in South Windsor.

HMF, which is based in Massachusetts, estimated that by year-end 2027 it will have created 210 jobs at the site.

It said the expansion is part of its strategic plan to expand production capabilities and meet growing demand.

CEO Doug Atamian said: "This new plant represents a significant opportunity for Home Market Foods to further expand our manufacturing capabilities and to advance our meal solutions innovation to meet the growing needs of our consumers throughout North America."

The updated facility is planned to open in June 2025. HMF said the location was chosen partly because of the availability of skilled labour.

The company has already begun recruiting for various positions, including engineers, maintenance workers, managers and production line workers.

HMF, founded in 1957, is the owner of brands including Cooked Perfect frozen meatballs, RollerBites meat snacks and Bahama Mama sausages.

It distributes its products to more than 175 retailers and distributors across other channels, including foodservice, in the US, Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean.

Its Eisenberg hot dog brand is sold in sporting arenas, theatres, restaurants, schools and amusement parks across the country.