Beef Quality

Cattlemen have demonstrated a commitment to the integrity of today’s beef products by implementing sound cattle management practices.

A 2011 survey of U.S. beef cattle producers done in conjunction with the National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA) found 87 percent of respondents who operated their ranches consistent with Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) standards did so because “it’s the right thing to do.”

The Beef Quality Assurance (BQA) program has developed best management practices to ensure cattle are healthy and productive while providing safe, wholesome products for consumers. BQA standards encompass most segments of the beef industry, including cow-calf, feedyard and marketing.

There was a time when targeting the Choice grade seemed like a lofty goal.

But as the song goes, the times, they are a-changin’.

The National Beef Quality Audit (NBQA) is one of the few ways the beef industry can assess both the fed beef supply as well as the supply of market cow and bull beef. Any savvy cattle producer is aware that the dairy industry plays a huge role in the beef supply. Not only do we see a large number of dairy steers entering the feedlot, but dairy cows also make a career change and ultimately contribute to our country’s beef reserve.

According to a recent Progressive Cattleman survey, the majority of respondents sell their calves at local sale barns.