Liberalising trade to ensure adequate red meat supply for the world was one of the main talking points at the recent International Meat Secretariat World Congress which took place in Dallas, Texas. The conference championed the need for fair trade rules which are science based and data driven.

The key speakers were agriculture ministers from large meat producers including Argentina, Canada and the US who all shared a vision of trusting in trade to deliver for the meat industry. There was particular reference to the humanitarian need to allow trade to reduce hunger.

Genome and blockchain technologies

There was also discussion of the role of genome and blockchain technologies in improving farm productivity and efficiency and also as a means of monitoring and improving food safety. The need to increase meat transparency and proof of claims was also discussed as a way to cater for the product demands of younger consumers, the millennials and generation Z.

Delegates also used the conference to voice concerns over challenges of animal welfare, safe working conditions and reducing waste and pollution which are key to modern day consumer values. Speakers were concerned if not addressed consumers would turn to other protein sources.

Stuart Ashworth, who represented QMS at the conference said: “The conference highlighted common challenges in building demand and trust among consumers across the globe.

“However, it highlighted the existing strengths of the Scotch PGI brands and the good opportunities that exist internationally where and when we have market access.”

The conference drew over 350 people from across the red meat supply chain – representing over 19 countries –to share knowledge about the challenges and opportunities facing the sector globally.