MINBURN, IA ? The families of Glenn & Bev Rowe, Tanner & Laura Rowe, and Justin & Corinne Rowe hosted a Japanese food service group on their family beef farm on July 22 to share their story of beef farming in Iowa for over six generations. It was of great interest to the group to learn about the six generation family farm. They also had the opportunity to learn about the availability of feed and water, as well as animal care during their visit.
The Japanese food service professional?s tour was facilitated by the Iowa Economic Development Authority International Office with the outcome of showcasing agricultural products throughout the state of Iowa. The opportunity to put a farmer?s face to the product they consume in a benefit in their market as traceability is an important aspect.
Glenn Rowe understands the importance of having open conversations with consumers about their product. ?The Japanese markets continue to be vital for U.S. beef; if we can share what our six generations of experience can produce for this market we are successful,? he states.
Japan continues to have a strong interest in U.S. beef because of the high priority in food safety, quality marbling, and great taste. The decrease in domestic Japanese beef production coupled with an increase in Japan?s middle class population make for favorable market conditions for U.S. beef. Japan is the number one export market for U.S. beef according to the United States Meat Export Federation (USMEF) May report.
As the group departed from their farm tour at the Rowe?s, each visitor received a copy of the My Family?s Beef Farm book written by Katie Olthoff, featuring Tanner Rowe?s daughter, Cecelia, from the Iowa Beef Industry Council.
