Beef Farmers to Canadian Consumers: Here’s How You Can Help
Consumers may think there is a surplus of beef in the marketplace. This is only a partial truth – there is a surplus of some cuts and a shortage of others. There’s an over-supply of cuts that would normally go into the export market and a shortage of cuts such as grilling steaks, which are always in high demand at this time of year. But cuts from the rib and loin, such as grilling steaks, represent just 28 per cent of production. Much of the balance, which is comprised primarily of hip, chuck, and variety meats such as liver, have traditionally found markets beyond Canada’s borders. Without exports, the domestic market has an over supply of marinating and simmering steaks, pot roasts and rotisserie roasts.
“During this difficult time, we encourage consumers to enjoy a variety of cuts of high quality Canadian beef,” says Neil Jahnke, President of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association and a Saskatchewan rancher. “Moving a variety of cuts will help the beef industry and the economy. If there’s a market available for all cuts of beef, packers will be better able to buy cattle. If Canadians add two or three more beef meals to their menu each week from the wide variety of cuts that are available, it helps more than the beef farmers. It helps get packing plant workers back on the job, truckers back on the road, and improves the economy of communities right across the country. ”
By marinating cuts such as the blade, sirloin tip and round, consumers can enjoy an economical and flavourful steak on the grill. “Beef has always been the most popular food on the barbecue,” says Barry Haner, Chairman of the Beef Information Centre and a cow-calf producer from Red Willow, Alberta. “And for an economical, great grilling experience, don’t overlook those cuts that are currently in over supply. Check out the great marinade recipes on Beef Information Centre’s website.”
Beef gives you energy and many essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of protein and zinc and is the richest food source of highly absorbable iron. Research has shown that many Canadians, especially women, eat less than the minimum number of two servings of Meats and Alternatives recommended by the Canada Food Guide to Healthy Eating. Enjoying two to three servings of Meat and Alternatives, like lean beef, each day is an important part of healthy eating.
