This time last year we were all looking forward to a new year; 2020 had been difficult in so many ways. The obvious difficulties of the global pandemic were at the forefront of everyone’s mind. For the meat industry, the challenges were even greater as we faced the demands of providing food for the world and keeping employees safe, coupled with a flurry of misinformation from the media speculating about the industry.

As the clock struck midnight to ring in 2021, I remember feeling a sense of relief — being naïve about what 2021 had in store. This year continued to pour challenges to our industry, and as I was preparing to write this, I was focused on the difficulties that continued through 2021. As I thought about my year of interactions with this fantastic industry, I realized that there has been more good than bad and being able to work with the world’s meat processors gives me hope! As we close out another year, I’ll touch on the highlights of this industry and why the future is bright.

First of all, let’s talk about food security for the nation and the world. People eat because of this industry. I am well-aware of supply chain shortages that have directly and indirectly impacted this industry and I know that there have been shortages in particular products in windows of time. However, the country is eating. There is meat on the shelves and no public panic over a lack of food. You may not be able to buy the car you want or get your Christmas gifts delivered on time, but the country will have food on the table to celebrate the season.

Another thing that gives me hope is the resilience of this industry. This touches on some of the supply chain issues previously mentioned. When there was a lack, this industry pivoted. I had the opportunity to be in the middle of some of the shortages and have a front row seat in witnessing how quickly things were adapted. Companies kept operating when facing unexpected regulatory changes, a lack of materials, shipping woes or other uncontrollable issues. There was also a labor shortage to contend with. This industry finds a way to get the job done and to get product where it needs to go.

Finally, and most importantly, I want to give a big shout out to the people. From the government inspectors and graders to the university scientists and educators to the workers in the industry that fight the good fight every day, I have met and worked with the best people. I get to serve on the Board of Directors for the American Meat Science Association, which carries the flag of science for the industry; this organization has the most incredible staff and members dedicated to doing the right thing and making this industry better from an organizational perspective. It brings together scientists representing all aspects of the industry and are committed not only to serving the industry through science, but to keeping the academic discipline of meat science alive.

Additionally, this year I have visited many establishments, given webinars and presentations for professional and industry meetings and interacted with hundreds of people in this field in various arenas. There is a dedication to keep food safe, keep the employees safe and well-compensated and provide the highest quality and safe product to the consumer.

This is the truth of this industry and this is why, even during difficulties, it will always persevere. This is why we stay hopeful and can look to the future. No matter what lies on the horizon in 2022, the meat industry will rise to the occasion! I look forward to watching it unfold.

A season for HOPE!

Join for free* to continue reading.