Exploring the Legacy and Future of Certified Angus Beef
In today’s episode of Beef Buzz, senior farm and ranch broadcaster Ron Hays engages with John Stika, the president of Certified Angus Beef (CAB). Their conversation delves into the storied past and expansive reach of this iconic brand, which has paved the way for others in the beef industry. Founded in 1978, CAB was the first USDA-certified branded beef program, establishing itself as the gold standard in the marketplace.
Global Expansion Efforts
Stika highlighted CAB’s significant strides in international markets, which became a reality beginning in 1990. Despite a challenging year characterized by tariffs, currency fluctuations, and significant market closures, he noted that the brand’s overall momentum remains robust. “International sales encountered some headwinds, but Mexico’s impressive 32% growth last year serves as an example of our resilience. Additionally, we saw growth in over half of the 77 countries where CAB products are available,” Stika explained. This highlights a consistent strategy: focusing on quality and demand to position CAB for accelerated growth as global conditions stabilize.
Tackling Domestic Challenges
Within the U.S., tight cattle supplies continue to create hurdles for CAB’s procurement efforts. Acknowledging these challenges, Stika pointed out that while the constrained numbers create difficulties in fulfilling every partner’s needs, they also usher in notable opportunities for producers of Angus cattle. Remarkably, the brand is witnessing record-quality trends. “Fewer cattle are available, but a higher percentage of them fit our brand,” he said, celebrating the all-time high acceptance rate of 37.6%. He expressed optimism that the national annual average could exceed 40% soon.
A Glimpse at Historical Progress
Reflecting on CAB’s evolution, Stika shared that acceptance rates once lingered around 5%. Just a few years ago, in 2006, it was a mere 14%. Today, CAB carcasses represent 22 to 24% of all fed cattle harvested in the U.S., marking a significant transformation for the Angus breed and the beef industry at large. The rising prices of quality beef underline the success of long-term investments in the production process. “We’ve developed a product that consumers desire, and they’re willing to pay top dollar for it,” he noted, emphasizing the channeling of consumer demand for high-quality beef.
Transparency in Labeling Initiatives
Looking forward, Stika discussed the upcoming expansion of the Made in the USA labeling initiative set to launch in early 2026. CAB champions transparency and consumer choice. “We advocate for consumers having the information they need and want to pay for,” he remarked, indicating that various CAB-producing plants may vary in their ability to utilize the new labeling. However, the brand is poised to adapt to shifting consumer demands and is ready to support supply chain partners falling under the new label.
Shaping the Beef Industry Narrative
The Beef Buzz serves as a crucial resource for ranchers, farmers, and consumers alike. Broadcasting valuable insights into the beef cattle industry, it offers nuanced perspectives on current issues, market trends, and advancements within the sector. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of these dynamics, today’s show is available for listening, and past segments can be found in the show archives.