We are still working toward fulfilling the consumers' needs and wants but the new convenience products like microwavable pot roasts, hamburgers, and steaks goes a long way in this direction. The great thing about this is that these products are very consistent and easy to prepare and often use under utilized fresh cuts. There are some interesting ideas floating around about just how our industry can become more responsive, thereby more responsible, to the consumer. One of the first worth considering is the elimination of the USDA Government Grading System. Government grading, unlike meat inspection, is not compulsory.
Official graders are subject to the call of anyone who wishes their services.
So, the consumer buys a bad steak and has no one to blame but the beef industry and no option but to purchase competitive meats. Let's look at some of the ramifications of lifting the USDA Grading System. Overnight, packing houses would be responsible for the beef that comes out of them. The minute their name gets on that beef the consumer has someone to reward or punish. Immediately the packer will begin looking for tasty, consistent, lean beef.