US beef imports rise prompting call for origin awareness

As the United States sees an increase in imported beef, consumers are being encouraged to consider the origins and farming practices of their meat, according to Mahanaim Farms, a family-run regenerative beef farm in central New Mexico.

In a statement, Mahanaim Farms notes that the rising importation of beef is due to the United States' reliance on foreign supplies to meet growing demand. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) expects imports to continue growing, reflecting a national cattle herd that is at its smallest size in 75 years.

"This shift highlights the need for consumers to have a clearer understanding of where their beef comes from and how the cattle were raised," said Annmarie Wickham, director of marketing at Mahanaim Farms. "When you buy beef at the grocery store, you usually don't know much about where the animal was raised or how it got there. At Mahanaim Farms, our customers can trace their purchase back to a specific herd on a specific farm."

Mahanaim Farms differentiates itself by focusing on regenerative, grass-fed and grass-finished Dexter cattle. These cattle spend their entire lives on pasture, ensuring a unique flavor and texture that is distinct from the beef raised in grain-based feedlots.

"Our approach to farming prioritizes the well-being of the animals and the health of the land," Wickham explained. "By raising our cattle on pasture, we reduce the stress and exposure to disease that can come with moving cattle between different locations. This method also allows us to offer a more transparent and sustainable product to our customers."

The farm's commitment to transparency is reflected in its direct-to-consumer shipping model. Mahanaim Farms ships its 100% grass-fed and grass-finished Dexter beef directly from the farm, providing customers with detailed information about the regenerative farming practices used.

"We believe that farm-to-consumer sourcing not only offers customers a better understanding of their food but also supports a more sustainable and ethical food system," Wickham said.

As imported beef becomes more prevalent, Mahanaim Farms provides an alternative for consumers seeking more information about the origins and farming practices of their meat. Interested shoppers can visit MahanaimFarms.com to learn more about the farm’s offerings and browse current cuts of dry-aged beef available for purchase.

For those interested in exploring the regenerative farming practices of Mahanaim Farms, the website provides a wealth of information, highlighting the unique benefits of grass-fed and grass-finished beef and the direct impact of their purchasing decisions.