What's For Dinner?

May is Beef Month in Wisconsin, and we're celebrating the impact of the beef community and the families that raise it. How can you join in the celebration?

May Beef Month celebrates the members of the beef community who diligently work day in and day out, not for accolades or credit, but because they are dedicated to providing the best care for their cattle while doing their part to feed a growing world. Beef is a pretty big deal in Wisconsin, as we now rank 12th nationally in the cattle feeding industry and have nearly 14,000 beef farms in operation. In addition, there are nearly 7,000 dairy farms across the state that also contribute to the beef supply chain. However, as the past few months have shown, the Wisconsin beef industry is essential to the food supply, not only here in Wisconsin, but across the nation.

America's cattle farmers and ranchers have continuously improved the way we raise cattle. The environmental sustainability of beef production has improved considerably over the last 30 years, with the beef industry producing one of the lowest carbon footprints in the world. "Beef farmers and ranchers work hard every day to produce high quality, nutritious beef in a sustainable manner," says Tammy Vaassen, the Wisconsin Beef Council Director. "Today's beef farmers are producing the same amount of beef with 33 percent fewer cattle than they did in 1977. They're continuously improving the way beef is raised to ensure a sustainable beef supply." And that's something to be proud of.

If anything, Covid-19 has demonstrated that in addition to the heroic citizens on the front line of America’s healthcare system, those involved in food production, such as Wisconsin beef producers, are some of the oldest and most essential professions that are incredibly vital to the framework of this great nation. Their work ethic and importance to the nation’s well-being does not go unnoticed.

Now, we are ready to celebrate the beef community and the return of seasonal summer temperatures by firing up the grill! It's the perfect time to enjoy an All-American juicy hamburger or a thick, mouth-watering steak. But, why should you choose beef? Well, it raises the steaks on nutrition and taste! Beef is a great source of 10 essential nutrients that support a heart-healthy lifestyle including protein, zinc, iron, and B vitamins. According to the Wisconsin Beef Council, in just one 3 oz. cooked serving, you’re getting about half (25g) of your Daily Value for protein! So, when it comes to beef and your health, you can rest easy knowing that along with being delicious, beef contains important nutrients that your body needs!

Beef Month also serves as an unofficial kickoff to grilling season, so the Wisconsin Beef Council has launched a library of beef recipes on www.beeftips.com. There are so many options when cooking with beef, whether it is kabobs, steaks, marinated roasts, or everyone’s favorite, the burger. Consumers will find numerous options to help optimize their grilling experience. The library also includes a few side dish recipes to complete the beef meals, making the website a one-stop shop for all your cooking needs!

Nicely done, beef. You're what's for dinner.

Happy Grilling!

Katrina