VERONA, Wis. — With the unofficial kickoff to summer just around the corner, more people plan to pull out the grill this year than in 2020. Grilling over the summer holidays is on the rise with up to 13 percent more U.S. consumers saying they are going to grill on Memorial Day, Father’s Day, Labor Day, or the Fourth of July. That is according to a survey from the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. On average, Americans say they will grill more than nine times a month this summer. Last year, it was eight. Kaitlyn Riley with the Wisconsin Beef Council says beef producers are working hard to keep up with consumer demand.

“Beef can be a staple for any meal enjoyed year-round, but summer months are special for Wisconsin residents who want to spend more time outdoors with family and friends. Thanks to our nearly 14,000 beef farmers across the state, we can confidently fire up the grill with a real protein source that is authentic and raised responsibly. As our landscape is filled with lush greenery, cattle upcycle inedible plants and turn them into that high-quality beef, making more protein available for the human food supply than would exist without them.”

Retail sales from last April through September show Ground Beef as the most popular beef choice followed by Ribeye Steak. Beef supplies 10 essential nutrients such as protein, iron, and zinc. Anyone looking for recipe inspiration or cooking tips can visit beeftips.com.

— Wisconsin Beef Council

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