September 3, 2014
A survey conducted by AgForce Queensland has found almost 98 per cent of consumers believe Australian beef producers are delivering a safe, nutritious and high quality product.
The survey, conducted by the Grazing BMP Project, interviewed visitors at this year’s Ekka.
Although many of those who took part said they had no direct association with farming, the survey found consumers were still mindful of where they bought their beef, and what type of beef they purchased.
The survey found that:
- 44 per cent of respondents preferred to purchase locally grown beef, while 33 per cent preferred grass fed
- 82 per cent said they had no environmental concerns about eating Australian beef
- 87 per cent were confident about the quality and safety of Australian beef
- 87 per cent believe beef is good value for money
- 75 per cent eat beef twice a week or more
The survey also indicated 74 per cent of consumers surveyed would be willing to pay more for beef to support the Australian beef industry in developing better outcomes for environmental and animal welfare matters.
AgForce Projects Grazing BMP Officer Michael Taylor said the BMP program was launched in 2013 to help graziers identify steps to improve the long-term profitability and sustainability of their grazing enterprises.
“The program – which is designed for producers, by producers – helps graziers self-assess and identify opportunities and threats in their current practices in order to become more drought-resilient and sustainable,” Mr Taylor said.
He said Grazing BMP was also the best way for the grazing industry to be demonstrate its good environmental and animal stewardship.
The Grazing BMP Partnership includes the Fitzroy Basin Association, AgForce and the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry.