Resource Highlights Canada’s Beef Producers
“We want consumers to feel positive about the beef they’re purchasing,” says Corinne Dawley, a home economist with the Beef Information Centre. “Confidence in our food supply begins with knowing more about the people who produce it.”
Dawley was instrumental in producing a new consumer resource that focuses on Canadian beef producers and the role they play in providing consumers with a wholesome and safe product.
The booklet, Canadian Beef - Quality that inspires Confidence, profiles beef producers from each region of the country – and highlights issues such as: environmental stewardship, animal health, quality and food safety, as well as the unique lifestyles of farming. The booklet also features classic recipes inspired by producers’ favourite beef meals.
“We want Canadians to meet some of the people who are responsible for producing beef in this country,” says Dawley. “I think consumers will be impressed by the skills these farmers and ranchers tap into every day. They’re multi-dimensional business people who – at a moment’s notice – can act as a general labourer, accountant, veterinarian or even mechanic.”
Throughout the booklet, readers will have the opportunity to meet producers from across the country. Judy Guichon’s family of British Columbia has been ranching in the Nicola Valley since the 1860’s. Duane MacDonald of PEI is the sixth generation to farm on his family’s land. John Popp from Manitoba combines a full time job away from the ranch, along with his farming duties. Pat Hayes from Saskatchewan loves the fact that being a cattle producer is the only job where you can take your kids to work with you. Bruce Ribey depends upon the expertise of veterinarian wife Heather on their farm in Ontario’s Bruce County. And brothers Bern and Mike Kotelko from Alberta are developing innovative ways to market their beef across North America.
“These are just a few of Canada’s committed beef producers, who agreed to be highlighted in this booklet,” says Dawley, “It’s important to remember that beef producers are consumers, too. Their children eat the beef they produce, so wholesomeness is of the utmost importance to them.”
Dawley adds that beef producers are very proud of their way of life and plan to pass their heritage on to their children. “As a result, they’re good stewards of their land. They’re committed to producing a healthful, nutritious product, while preserving the environment.”
The booklet also includes recipes inspired by the favourite beef dishes of the featured families. From Beef Bourguignon to a quick and easy Sunday night roast for two, from versatile meatballs to fast fajitas, the producers and the Beef Information Centre have some great ideas for mouthwatering and simple dinners.
“Although most of the recipes are tried and true favourites, they’re all easy to prepare entrées that fit into the lives of busy Canadians, producers included,” says Dawley.
Canadian Beef -- Quality that Inspires Confidence