Rising costs present opportunities for underutilized U.S. pork items

USMEF’s international marketing programs prioritize pork cuts and variety meats that are underutilized in the United States Global prices for all meat types continue rising, according to the FAO Food Price Index, a global barometer of prices for food commodities. While an environment of rising prices can potentially slow strong global demand for U.S. red meat, it also brings marketing opportunities as consumers and the trade look to reduce costs. “Saving money is important for international consumers and cost-reduction has become essential for retail and foodservice sectors,” says USMEF President and CEO Dan Halstrom. “The trade is very receptive to new product ideas and USMEF has accelerated educational and promotional programs for cost-effective pork cuts and variety meats at the center of the plate.” Halstrom points to the strong preference of U.S. consumers for middle meats, especially bacon, loins and ribs. On the other hand, pork production far exceeds U.S. demand for primal ...