August 10, 2006

US beef sold out on its first day back in Japan

All 5 tonnes of US beef were sold out on its first day back in Japan after a 6-month absence, boding well for subsequent exports, the US Meat Export Federation said Wednesday (Aug 9).

The re-debut of US beef in Japanese retail markets was a much celebrated affair with extensive media coverage, said USMEF.

USMEF officials were also creating awareness of US beef by distributing literature about the US beef industry's commitment to ensuring the safety of its beef.

Although polls indicate most Japanese still harbour doubts about the safety of US beef, the first day's results show that consumers were receptive and willing to give the product a try, the USMEF said.