Kara Keeton, Communications Director

Angela Blank, Executive Assistant

http://agpolicy.ky.gov

(502) 564-4627

It’s that time of year again.  The temperatures are rising outside and Kentuckians are lighting up their grills to cook beef.  Governor Ernie Fletcher recognizes this American tradition by proclaiming May 2005 Beef Month in the State of Kentucky. 

Governor Fletcher signed the proclamation before leaving on an economic development trip to Japan.

“I urge all Kentuckians to support Kentucky’s beef cattle industry, and to salute the cattle producers for their contribution to Kentucky’s economy this May,” Governor Fletcher states in the proclamation.

Kentucky has more than 2.32 million head of cattle on 44,000 farms.  In 2003, cash receipts from the sale of cattle and calves were more than $540 million, making a vital contribution to the economy of Kentucky.  And there’s more to the story.  As the largest segment of American agriculture, the beef industry is the state’s second largest agricultural product. 

This May, Kentucky Beef Council (KBC) is celebrating National Beef Month and Kentucky Beef Month by bringing their message directly to the consumer with a new Tailgating Trailer.  They will share grilling tips, show you why beef is “King of the Grill,” demonstrate different ways to dress up the all American hamburger, and share some great recipes.

Seventy-four percent (74%) of U.S. households own a grill, and ground beef accounts for 59 percent of beef consumed annually in America.  Nineteen cuts of beef meet the government guidelines for lean beef, with less than 10 grams of total fat, 4.5 grams or less of saturated fat, and less than 95 milligrams of cholesterol per serving. 

Beyond lean beef’s favorable fat profile, beef is – and has always been – a nutrient-rich powerhouse.  Just one 3-ounce serving of beef is an excellent source of five essential nutrients: protein, zinc, vitamin B12, selenium and phosphorous, and a good source of four essential nutrients: niacin, vitamin B6, iron and riboflavin.

So join in this American tradition and celebrate Kentucky Beef Month today with the King of the Grill.  Beef – It’s What’s for Dinner.

For more information on Kentucky’s Beef Industry contact Alison Smith with the Kentucky Beef Council at (859) 278-0899.