By Andi Anderson
Indiana's agricultural sector is rallying to fortify the international presence of U.S. meat products. Through strategic partnerships with entities like the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF), the Indiana corn and soybean checkoffs are spearheading initiatives to channel more of the state's corn and soybeans into the global livestock sector. A recent exploration in Panama alongside the Indiana Soybean Alliance shed light on the concerted efforts behind these endeavors.
Lucia Ruano, representing the USMEF in Central America, pinpointed prevalent misconceptions about U.S. meats, notably pork, in the region. Overcooked meat for presumed disease prevention and concerns over its perceived greasiness pose hurdles to wider acceptance.
To address these myths, the focus remains on education. Ruano emphasized the USMEF's dedication to elucidating the meticulous processes governing animal rearing, dietary habits, stringent quality controls pre-slaughter, packaging protocols, and overall handling to ensure top-notch meat quality upon arrival in these countries.
The educational efforts extend to imparting proper meat preparation techniques. Ruano highlighted the "Girls Can Grill" project in Central America, supported by Indiana farmers, where a renowned female chef conducted sessions enlightening attendees about optimal pork preparation while debunking health-related myths.
The emphasis on reaching women, who play pivotal roles in family nutrition, aims to underscore the nutritional benefits of pork consumption.
The Indiana Soybean Alliance underscores the crucial role of soybean meal as the primary feed for U.S. poultry and livestock, especially in Indiana, where poultry and hogs are the largest consumers of soybean meal. This collaboration underscores the pivotal role of educating and promoting U.S. meat exports for global acceptance and trade expansion.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-mg7
Categories: Indiana, Livestock