May is Beef Month, a time to celebrate Missouri’s cattle producers

LEWIS COUNTY, Mo. — May is officially recognized as Beef Month, shining a spotlight on the dedicated farmers and ranchers who raise high-quality cattle while caring for the land.

Missouri is home to more than 53,000 farms, spanning more than 10 million acres, and supports more than 4.3 million head of cattle. Beef production is a driving force in the state’s agricultural economy, generating nearly $2 billion in sales annually and supporting more than 40,000 jobs.

“Beef production is a large part of the $93.7 billion Missouri agriculture industry and is worthy of celebration throughout the month of May and all year,” Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn said in a press release. “Missouri cattle ranchers produce delicious, high-quality products desired by consumers across the state, the nation and the entire world.”

Missouri beef producers have a long history of caring for their cattle and the environment. Through responsible land management, grazing practices and animal husbandry, they work every day to protect natural resources and ensure a safe, nutritious beef supply for consumers.

“May is a time to celebrate the role of beef in our lives and the families who raise it,” said Brenda Schreck, University of Missouri livestock specialist from Lewis County. “Whether it’s burgers on the grill or a roast in the oven, beef remains a flavorful, nutrient-rich part of Missouri meals.”

Beef offers 10 essential nutrients, including protein, iron and B vitamins, making it a healthy, satisfying choice for families. During May, consumers are encouraged to support Missouri beef by purchasing local products, dining at restaurants that serve Missouri-raised beef, and thanking the hardworking cattle producers in their community.

To learn more about where to buy locally grown meat in your area, visit www.mofb.org/missouri-meat-producers.

To learn more about the MO Beef MO Kids program, led by the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association and designed to connect locally raised beef to school lunch programs, visit www.mobeefkids.com.

To learn more about Missouri’s beef industry or explore recipes, visit www.mobeef.org or follow the Missouri Beef Industry Council on social media.