Blindfold Tests Demonstrate U.S. Beef’s Quality to Importers in Central America

In markets where buyers and end-users only know the lean, grass-fed beef produced locally, simple tactics are sometimes best to demonstrate U.S. beef’s superior attributes. In recent months, market development efforts have centered on blindfold taste tests in Guatemala, Panama, El Salvador, Honduras and Dominican Republic to demonstrate the superior quality of grain-fed U.S. beef. According to Lucia Ruano, USMEF’s representative in the region, the taste tests are very effective.

“We conduct a two-three hour educational program for importers and their end-user customers...

Kroger to Bring More Resources to 700,000+ Associates

The Kroger Co. announced today a commitment to offer more resources to more associates following the completion of its proposed merger with Albertsons Companies.

As part of this commitment, Kroger will provide 700,000+ part-time and full-time associates access to its continuing education benefit, which offers up to $21,000 of reimbursement toward higher learning or continued development. The combined company will also expand access to its Goldman Sachs Ayco financial coaching tool. These programs build on the previously stated commitment that the combined company will invest $1... 

Cattle Industry Summer Meeting Education Session to Focus on Resilience

U.S. cattle producers are gathering in San Diego, July 24-26, for the industry’s Summer Business Meeting to discuss critical issues, develop initiatives, and establish direction for various projects aimed at improving the beef cattle industry. One of the highlights of the event is the education session “Optimizing Resources and Leveraging Technology to Build Resilience” on Wednesday, July 26, which will provide leaders with a glimpse into building resilience.

This session, sponsored by Envu, will feature Dr. James Oltjen, Cooperative Extension Animal Management Systems Specialist at the University of...

New Opportunities Developing for U.S. Beef in China’s Foodservice Sector

China’s economy is off to a good start in 2023 as consumer spending rallies from extended pandemic restrictions. Foodservice is rebounding and importers are working aggressively with its restaurant customers to meet changing demand from consumers. The pursuit of fresh ideas is creating new opportunities for high-quality, grain-fed U.S. beef in a sector that is accustomed to lean, grass-fed beef from South America.

USMEF partnered with a key importer to conduct training on specific U.S. beef cuts for one of its customers, a hot pot chain with...