In the first episode of our three-part More To Meat series, we're revealing a side of meat production you don't often get to see. 

Oli visits Australian Country Choice (ACC) in Brisbane where they've recently processed 6000 head of cattle in just one week. That's enough beef for 49 million spaghetti bolognese meals... enough to feed every Australian twice!

CEO Anthony Lee welcomes us into the ACC factory and explains there's more to red meat processing than just food. 

Products are used in pharmaceuticals, makeup, biodiesel, and even artificial heart valves, which are helping to save millions of human lives. 

Takeaways

• The red meat processing sector is vital to the Australian economy, employing many and generating significant revenue.
• Leadership and company culture play a crucial role in the success of organisations like Australian Country Choice.
• Education in agriculture is essential for attracting talent and ensuring the industry's future.
• The meat processing industry contributes significantly to healthcare through innovations like artificial heart valves.
• There is a need to showcase the meat processing industry to improve public perception and understanding.
• The meat processing industry has a broader impact on sustainability and innovation beyond just food production.
• Attracting talent from urban areas to rural agricultural jobs is a challenge that needs addressing.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Red Meat Processing Sector
03:07 Leadership and Company Culture at Australian Country Choice
09:40 The Importance of Education in Agriculture
17:26 Innovations and Contributions of the Meat Processing Industry
24:12 The Evolving Workforce in Meat Processing
29:56 The Need for Curriculum Changes in Agricultural Education
36:49 Creating Awareness and Opportunities in Agriculture

Australian Meat Processor Corporation’s latest “Our Steak in Australia” report found 189,000 Australian jobs are supported by red meat processing, across 300 communities. That’s one in 22 Aussie manufacturing jobs.

The industry is estimated to generate more than $29.6 billion in total value added to the economy, contributing to Australia’s standing in the world by bringing our world class red meat to global markets.

Learn more about the More to Meat campaign and Australian Country Choice.

Explore more stories of Humans of Agriculture - don't forget to rate, subscribe, and leave a review!

If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend and let us know your thoughts at hello@humansofagriculture.com.