Are you firing up the barbecue this weekend? As we remember and honor those who have served our country, more than half of Americans will enjoy burgers, sizzling dogs, sausages, steaks and other foods prepared on the grill.
Whether you purchased your hamburger and steaks at the grocery store, from your favorite local butcher, or purchased them directly from a local farmer, you can rest assured that the beef meets the highest standards for animal and environmental protection.
Wisconsin farmers prioritize environmental stewardship and are committed to high-quality beef while finding inventive ways to protect the land.
Farmers work with experts to develop best practices for environmental protection and animal care. Similar to following a pediatrician’s or doctor’s guidelines, farmers work with nutritionists to develop rations that ensure each cow receives the proper nutrition. They also work with veterinarians to ensure that animals receive the best care and comfort all year round.
Grazing cattle helps improve soil quality year after year. Cattle put nutrients back into the soil and spread their own fertilizer.
Cattle graze on land unsuitable for cultivation. They can convert this otherwise useless soil into high-quality protein for the barbecue and picnic table. On a long weekend, we’d rather eat a juicy hamburger than a handful of grass, and luckily, cows make this possible by eating the grass we can’t eat and turning it into delicious meat.
Sustainable beef may have more than one connection to a Memorial Day picnic. Cattle also eat leftovers from human food production. The spent grain from brewing provides energy for cattle. As you enjoy a icy drink at your picnic, remember that cattle play an vital role in eliminating food waste. They turn leftovers of the products we love into even more food for our tables.
If you have any leftovers from your Memorial Day picnic, you can get inventive with storing and reusing them. Try adding leftover steak or hamburger to a salad for extra protein. You can also freeze leftovers for a quick and uncomplicated meal during busy summer nights. Reusing and storing leftovers properly helps reduce food waste and the overall impact on the environment.
When you fire up the grill this summer, you can be sure that your burgers and fresh cuts of steak come from the best beef in the world – raised with sustainability in mind and with animal care as a top priority. Farmers take care of their animals and the land. This exceptional care is reflected in a high-quality product that will appear on your table and support your family. Make beef part of your sustainable summer! How will you enjoy beef this holiday weekend?
