However, there still is a gap between consumer demand for the branded beef products that come from these cattle and the number of carcasses that actually make the grade here. Comerford suggests that USDA grading will continue to be used for verification of branded products, but that commodity beef will have less value on this market. This program helps beef to rise above the commodity status. It's not 'just' beef, it's somebody's beef, with a mark denoting quality that consumers can rely on. Comerford says the program should help producers improve quality and profitability.
Profit is measured in the difference between return and cost.
It's out there in your feedbunk and in the decisions you make. To read previous months' news releases, click on this link.