Stabilizing steps secure beef supply

Like others, beef producers are learning to make adjustments in their everyday activities. The April 28 executive order from the Trump Administration invoking the Defense Production Act will deliver additional needed personal protection equipment and screening supplies to further ensure worker safety in meat processing plants. Concurrently, meat-processing plants will remain open as critical infrastructure while the nation confronts growing food supply disruptions from COVID-19.

Colorado’s beef community, led by the Colorado Beef Council, Colorado Cattlemen’s Association and Colorado Livestock Association, is committed to doing its part to provide the public with safe and wholesome products. “The beef industry is doing everything possible to meet consumer demand, but the primary concern is ensuring the health and safety of those who produce, process, inspect and deliver beef,” stated Dwain Weinrich, Colorado Livestock Association president.

As a growing number of processing plants across the country started experiencing slow-downs and temporary closures, processing capacity was 14-16 percent lower than the same time a year ago — jeopardizing the ability to meet consumer needs during the pandemic.

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