This is Megan Silveira, assistant editor for the Angus Journal, with the August 15, 2022, update from the AJ Daily. Today’s update contains considerations for safety when working cattle, comments from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association concerning the “Food Compass” study, a statement from the National Farmers Union on the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, and a report on world supply and demand estimates for livestock.
Four Ways to Stay Safe When Working Cattle
Adapted from a release by Heather Smith Thomas for Angus Beef Bulletin
Large animals and unpredictable situations can certainly lead to accidents. Accidents happen, but it pays to think ahead and avoid putting yourself into a risky situation.
Most cattle herds are gathered and worked for branding, vaccinating, pregnancy testing, weaning and other necessary management tasks. Many cattle are put through the chute twice or more annually. It is important to make sure these cattle-working tasks are accomplished smoothly and safely for the cattle and for the safety of the crew.
Nora Schrag, clinical assistant professor in Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, recommends walking through and checking the facilities you’ll be using to hold, sort and restrain cattle.
To read more, visit angusbeefbulletin.com/extra and select the management page.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Condemns Flawed “Food Compass” Study
Adapted from a release by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
On Aug. 12 the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association condemned the flawed “Food Compass” study funded, in part, by Bill Gates.
National Cattlemen’s Beef Association CEO Colin Woodall says, “The idea that M&M’s®, potato chips and cereal are somehow healthier than natural beef ignores scientific evidence and, frankly, doesn’t measure up to logic. These snack foods are high in sugar, carbohydrates and fats, while beef is a nutrient-rich food that provides essential protein, iron, zinc and numerous B vitamins. No one sits down to a plate of candy and chips expecting a healthy meal, but a lean cut of beef accompanied by vegetables or fruits and whole grains is a healthy choice every time.”
For more information go to ncba.org.
National Farmers Union Statement on Passage of Inflation Reduction Act
Adapted from a release by Ross Hettervig, National Farmers Union
National Farmers Union President Rob Larew said the following in response to the U.S. House of Representatives passing the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022:
“The passage of the Inflation Reduction Act is cause for optimism for farmers and ranchers across the country, with historic investments in voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs that are critically underfunded. NFU is proud to see investment in biofuels infrastructure that will help farmers’ bottom line and help consumers save at the pump. The inclusion of financial support for economically distressed farmers and ranchers is also a welcome addition that will help keep farmers on their land for years to come.”
To read more, to go nfu.org.
World Agricultural Supply and Demand Estimates: Livestock
Adapted from a release by the USDA
The forecast for 2022 red meat and poultry production is fractionally higher than last month as higher beef and broiler forecasts are partly offset by lower pork and turkey. Beef production is raised for the second half with higher expected slaughter.
For 2023, the red meat and poultry production forecast is raised on higher beef production. The beef forecast was raised, reflecting higher expected placements in late 2022 and the 2022 calf crop reported in the latest Cattle report.
Cattle price forecasts for 2022 are raised on current price strength. This is expected to carry into early 2023 and prices were raised for the first quarter.
For the full report, click on the link in this episode’s description.
The AJ Daily is compiled by Paige Nelson, field editor for theAngus Journal. For more Angus news, visit angusjournal.net.