Industry
immigration. Immigration
always is a news topic, but the
impact on beef production is
probably left to the demand
and supply curves.
The final issue is a noticeable
change in how markets
distribute and sell food. Within
the last decade, the walk
through an aggressive grocery
hub certainly has taken on
a new look. Farm and ranch
products need floor space,
counter space and freezer
space. Every cow-calf producer
needs to ask, “How does my
annual production make its
way to the food counter?”
However, consumers still remain
cost conscious, creating an
opportunity for the cost-savvy
producer within any food center.
Jensen’s final point is:
“Continued concentration of
large-scale processing, food
distribution and retailing
may reduce consumer choice
in markets.” This challenges
individual producer initiatives
because the scale of production
must compete with the
large-scale process of
food production. I
Ask the store as well. Let
the business know the floor
space is appreciated.
Currently, the production
discussion is more likely
to occur in the harvesting
segment of the industry.
Unfortunately, beef producers
continue to take a back seat
in product recognition.
How is this going to play out
in terms of beef production?
Jensen narrowed the points to
three. The first is, “Food safety
will continue to be a paramount
consumer expectation.”
That’s absolutely true and will
remain true. Globalization
will drive world health. The
beef producer will not be an
exception. Sorry, but true.
The second point is: “As North
American incomes continue
to increase, consumers will
choose products on the basis
of varied attributes, including
taste, variety and convenience.”
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