Farmer's Almanac pegs buffalo as the "new red meat" for 2004
American buffalo will be the "in" red meat for 2004, according to the latest edition of the Old Farmer's Almanac.
The 2004 edition of the almanac contains a prediction reading, "New red meat: Watch for bison to catch on as the new healthy alternative to beef."
Dave Carter, executive director of the National Bison Association, noted, "We expect 2004 to be a breakout year for buffalo meat. Consumers are catching on to the fact that buffalo meat is great tasting, as well as exceptionally nutritious. We've seen our sales of meat increase dramatically in 2003. Our business is poised to continue building demand in 2004."
Carter cited several steps being taken by the bison industry as examples that buffalo producers are aggressively working to meet the expectations of consumers.
The association is currently implementing an industry-wide source verification labeling program that was approved for use by the U.S. Department of Agriculture this fall. When fully implemented, that program will verify that all buffalo meat carrying the new label can be traced back to the ranches of origin. The program will also verify that producers do not use feed containing antibiotics or artificial growth hormones.
In addition, the National Bison Association's code of ethics has long prohibited producers from using any animal byproducts in feed.
The national association also mounted a targeted Buffalo Stampede marketing campaign in 2003 to promote the deliciously healthy aspect of the meat products.
Carter noted, "Consumers are starting to seek out the product, and more grocery stores and restaurants are carrying deliciously healthy buffalo. We are excited about the prospects ahead for 2004."
Date: 1/15/04
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