MADISON, Wis. – It’s May, which means it is time to fire up the grill, support your local producers and processors, and celebrate May Beef Month. In Wisconsin, we’re known for our hard-working farmers, high quality animals, and an innovative meat processing industry. We can be proud of the work done to bring beef from the farm gate to your dinner plate.
In Wisconsin, twelve head is the average beef herd size, and there are 240,000 head of cattle on feed in Wisconsin. On farms across the state, farmers care for their animals, using the best genetics, optimal nutrition, and proper veterinary care. Farmers do this so well that beef cattle and calves cash receipts total $2.3 billion, and Wisconsin genetics are renowned throughout the world.
In meat processing plants, Wisconsin processors work to produce a variety of beef cuts and products. In state inspected plants, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) employees work to educate while they regulate so consumers can access safe and healthy products. Wisconsin has more than 520 meat establishments, the majority of which are licensed and inspected by DATCP’s Bureau of Meat and Poultry Businesses. Because there are so many processors in the state, many retailers provide consumers with protein options from just down the road. It leads consumers to the intersection of “know your farmer, know your food” and “support your local, Main Street business.”
In Wisconsin, state policy makers play a proactive role. Governor Evers and the legislature have invested in processors across the state to increase their capacity. The Governor has also allocated funds to support students and current meat processors to get trained in the basics of meat processing, mobile meat processing, and humane handling.
These state-driven, strategic investments have supported the current and future meat processing workforce. Due to the investments of the Governor and partnerships with the University of Wisconsin agricultural colleges and the Wisconsin Technical College System, we have been able to create new, one-of-a-kind training opportunities for those interested in a meat processing career and those already in the industry. While these programs have made an impact, we know the work is not done. Continuing funding for these programs and improving them to meet industry demand is an ongoing expectation, so that people across the state and world can continue to experience the quality of Wisconsin beef products. We need policy makers in Wisconsin to continue to invest in our farmers and industry.
As you enjoy the warmer weather this May, think about buying that beef product on the shelf, thanking a farmer, and stopping by your local processor to check out their offerings. Wisconsin is known for its artisan meats and much goes into making this a success. This May, support your local beef producers and processors and celebrate Wisconsin’s meat processing heritage.
For more information on Wisconsin’s meat processing industry, visit DATCP’s website at datcp.wi.gov. For more on May Beef Month, visit BeefTips.com.
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