TOPEKA, Kan. — Research funded by the beef checkoff has put a spotlight on the continuing need for in-office information to be provided to health professionals, particularly physicians. Therefore, for the second year, educational tools and handouts on the benefits of beef as a first complementary food for infants was shared with pediatricians, nurse practitioners and physician assistants.
The checkoff-developed materials consisted of a newsletter, exam room poster and consumer booklets with an in-office display. These items were delivered to more than 3,000 new pediatric offices across 32 states. The Kansas Beef Council (KBC) assisted by distributing resources across Kansas and the Kansas City metro.
As part of this program, pre- and post-surveys were conducted. Data found that three-quarters of respondents reported being more likely to recommend beef as an early complementary food after receiving the materials. More than two-thirds had a more favorable impression of beef as an early complementary food due to the program.
This effort is part of a broader attempt by KBC to offer health professionals science-based resources showing how beef can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.
— Kansas Livestock Association