Kansas Beef Council Trains Educators for Statewide Beef Preservation

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas Beef Council (KBC) joined with Kansas State University Research and Extension to host a hands-on beef preservation and food safety workshop in Salina, Kansas.

The event helped educators across the state learn practical skills they can share with their communities.

Twenty-six participants attended, including extension dietitians, nutrition educators, family and consumer sciences teachers, 4-H leaders, and SNAP-Ed educators.

Each received training in freezing, dehydrating such as making beef jerky, and pressure canning. These methods help families store beef safely while maintaining flavor and nutrition.

To support the lessons, KBC supplied fresh beef and provided science-based resources. Participants took home thawing guidelines, beef cut charts, recipes, and instructions on proper thermometer use.

These materials will help them lead similar workshops in their own counties, spreading accurate information about beef preparation and storage.

The goal of the program is to increase consumer confidence and strengthen beef demand at the community level. By learning to preserve beef safely, families can enjoy a dependable protein source year-round and reduce waste. One participant explained, “Beef preservation is a gateway to food self-reliance, especially in rural areas where store shelves aren’t always reliable.”

The Kansas Beef Council emphasized that this effort reflects the Beef Checkoff program’s mission to provide trusted, science-based education about beef as a safe, nutritious, and versatile food.

These educators now have the knowledge to guide consumers on how to purchase, prepare, and store beef correctly.

With accurate information and practical experience, the newly trained educators will help more Kansas families feel comfortable using beef in everyday meals. Their outreach will support local food security and show that beef can be preserved safely and enjoyed in many forms, from frozen cuts to homemade jerky.

By investing in community education, the Kansas Beef Council and K State Extension ensure that beef remains a reliable, healthy choice for Kansas households today and for future generations.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-sstajic