By Scout Nelson
Retail business owners often face the twin challenges of predicting demand and understanding consumer preferences. For beef producers, anticipating what drives consumer purchases is crucial. Addressing this, Kansas State University agricultural economists conducted a nationwide survey to uncover these preferences.
The survey, discussed on a Cattle Chat podcast by K-State ag economist Ted Schroeder, found that freshness, price, flavor, and safety are the non-negotiable qualities consumers expect in beef products.
This insight aligns with the beef industry's economic sustainability goals, as outlined by K-State beef cattle nutritionist and sustainability expert Phillip Lancaster.
Lancaster describes sustainability's three pillars as economic, social, and environmental. While economic sustainability focuses on ranch profitability, social sustainability deals with public perception of animal care. Environmental sustainability involves soil, water, and emissions.
Schroeder notes that animal welfare trumps greenhouse gas concerns for consumers when purchasing beef. Consumer priorities are not monolithic, with some preferring niche attributes.
Schroeder also cautions policymakers on the impact of over-regulation. While the industry strives for profitability, environmental friendliness, and social acceptability, unnecessary regulations could inflate costs, potentially deterring price-sensitive consumers.
Photo Credit: national-cattleman-s-beef-association
Categories: Kansas, Livestock, Beef Cattle