U.S. Begins New Program to Track Farm Animals
The federal government launches a new livestock identification program to help agriculture officials to quickly track livestock in cases of disease.
livestock
Why You'll Be Paying More for the Summer Barbecue
That cherished American tradition -- summer grilling -- is about to get pricier. Rising grain prices are affecting livestock feed, which in turn affects meat production. And surging overseas demand for both U.S grains and meat are adding to the equation.
Could Yak Soon Become the New Buffalo?
Native to the Himalaya and still exotic in North America, yaks have potential. They're environmentally sound, relatively easy to raise, have cashmere-like wool and lower-fat meat than beef. They're still a niche -- but gaining notice.
Medusahead: An Inedible Grass Threatens Western Rangeland
Spreading at 12% a year across 17 Western state, this invasive species -- with its high silica content and spiky heads and seeds that cut animals' mouths -- forces livestock to go elsewhere to feed. That can raise costs for ranchers and result in skinnier cattle.
Local Food Movement Gives Small Farms a Big Boost
The locavore, or local food, movement is gaining momentum, driven in part by increasing awareness about the importance of quality food. Nationwide, small, local farms have tapped into a growing market by selling meat and produce to nearby consumers and choosy restaurant chefs.
Meat Market: Cattlemen Debate Federal Antitrust Measure
Hoping to stop more small ranches from failing, the Obama administration has proposed a new antitrust rule. But ranchers are divided about whether it will help or hurt them. At a workshop Friday, some argued the rule could end up reducing their earnings.
The Top 10 Cuts of Beef for Summer Grilling
It's hard to beat a mouthwatering steak grilled on the barbecue during the summer. But which ones provide the best sizzle for the price? Fortunately, tough times mean that most people don't have to go for the least expensive cuts. This year, the higher-quality cuts now sell for less. Here are the 10 most popular cuts for grilling this summer.
Growing Demand for the Other Red Meat: Buffalo
More Americans are developing a taste for bison, with consumption growing at double digits for each of the past five years. Can the bison industry keep up?
Are U.S. Beef Prices Being Manipulated?
A news report says the government is preparing to launch an investigation into whether the nation's largest meat packing companies have been manipulating and driving down cattle prices. But industry insiders are skeptical.