Joe Kafka
Associated Press
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Pierre, SD –Tuned-up rules for the South Dakota Certified Beef Program were outlined Tuesday at a public hearing in the state Capitol, and officials hope the effort begins to bear fruit by year's end.
They acknowledge that it may take awhile for the program to catch on, but they believe it will prove to be a strong success in future years.
The branded-beef initiative was created at the urging of Gov. Mike Rounds to boost the finances of state farmers and ranchers, feedlot operators and meat processing plants. It is intended to let beef buyers and consumers know that the meat they purchase was produced under strict and closely monitored guidelines.
Rather than market cattle as a common commodity, the program is designed to increase the animals' value by fetching premium prices. Officials say tenderness, flavor and consistent quality will be hallmarks of the beef from cattle raised under the standards.
Various businesses and organizations have promoted high-quality beef over the years, but state officials believe the Certified Beef Program marks the first time a government has put its stamp of approval on beef products.
"To our knowledge, it's the only government-certified program of its kind in the world," said Jason Glodt, a top-level member of Rounds' staff.
The state seal for certified beef is an official trademark, featuring an image of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and declaring "The World's Best Beef."
Processors participating in the program will be licensed and inspected by the state to ensure quality of the beef that is to be marketed.
Noting that no one showed up Tuesday for public comments on the rules, Glodt said the absence of people at the meeting is "a show of support for the program."
State officials have worked closely with South Dakota's agriculture and meatpacking sectors in forging the proposed rules, he said.
