Dr. Keith E. Belk: Advancing Beef Quality | Ep. 53
Nov 29, 2023
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Dr. Keith E. Belk, a meat science expert, discusses the evolution of the beef industry, the National Beef Quality Audit, foreign object contamination, and the value of quality assurance programs. Learn about improving beef quality and consistency.
The National Beef Quality Audit plays a crucial role in identifying areas for improvement and guiding strategic decision-making to enhance beef quality grades.
Beef quality assurance programs have been instrumental in improving safety protocols, addressing transportation-related concerns, and increasing truck driver training.
Deep dives
Improving beef quality and product supply over time
The podcast discusses how the philosophy of continuous improvement is essential in beef quality management. The beef industry has made significant progress in enhancing product quality and image. The implementation of beef quality assurance programs has played a major role in improving quality management and consumer satisfaction. The industry has seen a significant increase in the percentage of prime and choice-grade carcasses, which has positively impacted demand and profitability. However, challenges such as foreign object contamination, liver abscesses, and bruising still need to be addressed to further enhance the beef industry.
The National Beef Quality Audit and its evolution
The National Beef Quality Audit is a crucial study that originated in 1991 to improve beef quality and restore demand. The audit measures and identifies important aspects of quality in the beef industry supply chain. Over the years, the audit has highlighted areas for improvement and allowed strategic decision-making based on data-driven insights. The audit has contributed to the significant progress made in reducing defects and enhancing beef quality grades. However, challenges like foreign object contamination and liver abscesses continue to require attention.
The impact of beef quality assurance programs
Beef quality assurance programs have been instrumental in improving the quality and safety of beef products. These programs have focused on implementing best management practices throughout the industry supply chain. The programs have helped address issues such as injection site lesions and transportation-related concerns. They have also enhanced food safety protocols, responding to changing consumer expectations. The incorporation of transportation BQA programs has significantly increased truck driver training and awareness, improving overall beef quality.
Remaining challenges and opportunities for improvement
While significant progress has been made in beef quality management, challenges like foreign object contamination (including buckshot) and liver abscesses persist. The industry must strive to reduce foreign objects, such as shot and darts, from entering the beef supply chain. Liver abscesses continue to impact cattle health and product value, warranting further research and alternative prevention strategies. Additionally, there is a need to address increasing bruising issues, which are likely exacerbated by the size of cattle. Continuous improvement initiatives and a focus on cattle well-being are key to overcoming these challenges and taking the beef industry to the next level.
Join us in this episode where we had a great conversation with Dr. Keith Belk from Colorado State University. We explored the industry's evolution and the adoption of beef quality assurance initiatives. Dr. Belk delves into the National Beef Quality Audit and emphasizes process control's critical role in beef production. He also sheds light on the hurdles of foreign object contamination and highlights the value of the quality assurance programs. Take advantage of this informative discussion on improving quality and consistency in the beef industry.
“The perception and image of the beef industry is improving. We need to leverage that by doing things right and by caring. It makes a big difference to consumers." - Dr. Keith E. Belk
What you’ll learn:
(00:00) Highlight
(01:40) Introduction
(03:40) The National Beef Quality Audit
(10:00) Evolution in beef quality
(20:16) Impacts of foreign object contamination in processing
(28:32) Prospects and challenges for future beef quality enhancements
(30:46) Addressing liver abscesses in cattle
(39:40) End of the Episode
Meet the guest: Dr. Keith E. Belk
Experience:
Current: Professor & Head at the Department of Animal Sciences at Colorado State University
Past: International Marketing Specialist at USDA-AMS-LS
Background:
Ph.D., Animal Science (Texas A&M University)
M.Sc., Animal Science (Colorado State University)
B.S., Animal Science (Colorado State University)
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