Beef Quality Assurance–Past, Present, Future

Authors

Gary C. Smith, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, ColoradoFollow
J. D. Tatum, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado
K. E. Belk, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado

Date of this Version

12-11-1997

Comments

Published for Proceedings, The Range Beef Cow Symposium XV December 9, 10 and 11, 1997, Rapid City, South Dakota.

Abstract

The Beef Quality Assurance Task Force (BQATF) was formed in early 1986 when three NCBA (then, the National Cattlemen's Association) Policy Committees independently directed NCBA to address "the growing issue of consumer concern about the safety and wholesomeness of beef." It was believed that the cattle industry's efforts aimed at improving beefs image as a healthful food with regard to its nutrient profile could not stand alone, and that lingering consumer concerns about drug and chemical residues in beef could negate any progress made in the diet/health area. Consequently, the BQATF (then, the Beef Safety Assurance Task Force) was formed with the objective of "Enhancing The Image Of Beef As A Safe And Wholesome Food."