Now Is An Encouraging Time In Angus

Many commodities are facing challenges right now, if not struggling. But one sector that has enjoyed some success over the past 18 months to two years is cattle. Kara Lee, Director of Producer Engagement at Angus Certified Beef, said 2024 was a great year.

“We were able to boast our second-best year ever for certified Angus beef with sales in excess of 1.23 billion pounds of product," Lee said. "The best year we've had since pre-COVID, and one of the most encouraging things is that it's not happened in a year when beef prices are the lowest. We know that consumers aren't going to the meat case to purchase beef because it's the cheapest protein out there. But we know that when they are going to the meat case to purchase beef, they want something that's quality. They want a trusted brand that they can take home and have a high-quality eating experience.”

Growth Expected In Prime

When it comes to demand domestically and internationally, Lee said one of the areas she sees great growth opportunity is within the prime category.

“Talk about flying in the face of economics when beef prices are already high, you wouldn't necessarily expect prime to be an area of emphasis," Lee added. "But again, as we continue to elevate consumer expectations with that consumer demand. We're continuing to see a tremendous amount of interest in the certified Angus the prime category.”

Lee added they are also seeing more cattle make it across the finish line into the prime box. She encourages Angus producers across the Northwest to consider that prime designation for their animals. And when it comes to the future of Angus, long-term, Lee noted that genetics will continue to play a vital role, allowing more and more cows to get that prime designation.