Canadians Show Their Confidence in Canadian Beef!
Just over 123,000 tonnes of beef was taken out of the supply chain in July 2003, compared to 76,000 tonnes in July 2002. “This level of disappearance hasn’t been seen in close to 30 years, and it’s directly attributable to the tremendous support Canadians have shown for the beef industry in its time of need,” says Barry Haner, Chair of the Beef Information Centre and a cattle producer from Red Willow, Alberta. “Beef cattle producers are tremendously grateful for the support they’ve received from their fellow Canadians. The support of Canadians has helped make a very bad situation a little brighter.” The Beef Information Centre is a division of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association.
Most export markets have been closed to Canadian beef and cattle since May 20, when Canada’s inspection and surveillance system successfully diagnosed a single case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in a Canadian cow. Prior to this diagnosis Canada exported over 50 percent of its beef and cattle production. The loss of over half their markets has been devastating to beef cattle producers. Prices for finished cattle remain half of what they were prior to the BSE announcement.
“Canadians have shown they have confidence in the safety of Canadian beef,” adds Haner. “It’s time for the leaders in other countries to take notice and begin allowing quality Canadian beef products back into their marketplaces.”
“The crisis is far from over, and we’re looking to Canadians to continue their support of the industry,” explains Glenn Brand, Director of Marketing for the Beef Information Centre. “By continuing to enjoy two or more beef meals each week from the variety of cuts that are available, Canadians will help support rural economies right across Canada.”
