MeatsPad

In this special episode, we speak with Wilfried Schobel, Product Manager at Viscofan Group, as they celebrate 50 years of innovation in casing technology. Recorded live at IFFA, Wilfried shares insights into the evolution and essential role of casings in the meat industry—from functionality to innovation and sustainability.

In this exclusive MeatsPad episode recorded at IFFA, we speak with Vlastimil Zajíc, Head of Development and Technical Support at MAUTING. He shares how the company leads in product innovation, technical development, and the creation of customized solutions for the meat processing industry.Discover how MAUTING turns industry challenges into cutting-edge equipment that meets evolving global demands in thermal and smoking technologies.

In this Meatspad episode, we are joined by Ms. Jitka Pikula, Head of Sales at MAUTING, to discuss the key developments influencing the smoking chamber market in 2025.Recorded during IFFA 2025, the conversation highlights current industry demands, technological advancements, and MAUTING's strategic response to global trends.

In this special IFFA edition, we welcome Piotr Brzeski and Michał Brzeski from Bsharp, a pioneering brand by Cutlery Solutions. They introduce Bsharp L, an advanced knife sharpening system designed to meet the high standards of the food processing industry. This innovation plays a critical role in maintaining cutting efficiency, improving operator safety, and supporting overall production quality in meat and food processing facilities.

In this episode of the Meatspad Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Wes Schilling, Professor of Meat Science, Sensory Science, and Food Chemistry at Mississippi State University. With years of industry experience and a hands-on teaching approach. We dive into the use of phosphates in meat products, what they do, their limitations, and why they're essential for improving product quality. Don't miss this episode packed with practical science and real-world applications!

n this episode of MeatsPad, we welcome Anne-Marie Roerink, president of 210 Analytics, to discuss key trends and challenges in the meat and food retail industry. We explore work-life balance, the meat supply chain, food delivery, market pricing, and industry leadership. Anne-Marie shares her insights on overcoming obstacles and why passion for what you do makes all the difference. Join us for an in-depth conversation on the future of meat retail.

This week on MeatsPad, we're joined by Dr. Aeriel Belk from Auburn University, an expert in meat science and food safety microbiology. Dr. Belk discusses the fascinating world of microbiomes in animal science, explaining what a microbiome community is and its significance in meat science. She highlights how microbiomes play a crucial role in meat spoilage, pathogens in slaughter facilities, and drying aging in meat. Tune in to learn more about how microorganisms interact in meat industry environments and their importance in ensuring food safety. Don't miss this insightful conversation about the invisible world that affects the quality and safety of our meat!

In this episode, we are honored to welcome Dr. Ruth Woiwode, a distinguished expert in Animal Behavior and Welfare, as well as Nebraska's Animal Care and Handling Specialist. Dr. Woiwode serves as an Assistant Professor and is actively engaged in leading animal welfare research and comprehensive outreach initiatives throughout the state. She holds certification from PAACO in animal welfare auditing for dairy, swine, poultry, meat processing plants, and feedlots. Dr. Woiwode is committed to enhancing practices across various sectors to ensure the well-being of animals. We invite you to join us as we explore her significant contributions to the advancement of animal welfare.

In this episode, Erick Mittenthal, the Chief Strategy Officer at The Meat Institute, joins us to discuss the organization's long history and its efforts to support education within the meat industry. He explains the role of the Protein PACT, their work with small businesses, and the institute's various collaborations. Mittenthal emphasizes the importance of consumer data on key issues that build consumer trust, such as animal welfare, environmental impact, food safety, nutrition, and food security. He also highlights the significance of effective communication in creating a positive impact on both the meat industry and consumers.

In today's episode, we are joined by Kadie Graves, an at-large director on the American Meat Science Association's Student Board. Kadie introduces "Meat the Truth," a student-led initiative aimed at debunking myths and sharing accurate meat science information through social media. We discuss how the project uses engaging templates to communicate scientific truths about meat production, consumption, and its role in diets.

In this episode, Dr. Francisco Najar teams up with Dr. Kathleen Wolff to interview J.D. Julie Anna Potts, President and CEO of the Meat Institute. The discussion highlights Julie's impactful leadership and her vision for the future of the meat industry, with a focus on initiatives like the Protein PACT and Emerging Leaders Program.

In this episode, we are joined by Klae O'Brien, lead author of a groundbreaking study on consumer perceptions of grass-fed beef. Published in the Journal of Applied Communications, the study examines how factual information can reshape consumer opinions about beef labeling. Klae shares fascinating insights into how presentation formats impact consumer trust and what the meat industry can learn from this research.

In today's episode, we're joined by Dr. Gregg Rentfrow, a seasoned meat scientist with over 36 years of expertise. He shares his expertise on seam butchery, tips for creating visually stunning cuts, and insights into the evolving world of meat science education through his globally popular videos. We also explore barbecue traditions across the U.S. and Kentucky's Barbecue Boot Camp. Whether you're a professional or backyard enthusiast, this episode is packed with practical knowledge to elevate your craft.

In this episode, we dive into the multifaceted beef world with Dr. Molly McAdams, Executive Vice President of the Texas Beef Council. Dr. McAdams shares insights into the council's efforts to promote beef across Texas, including the unique challenges of catering to a growing and diverse population. We explore strategies for engaging modern consumers, the importance of regional branding, and how the industry adapts to changing culinary trends.

The 77th RMC concluded with Dr. Francisco Najar and Phill Bass reflecting on the impactful exchange of ideas that took place. Experts and industry professionals discussed pressing topics, emphasizing the future of meat science. The conference not only encouraged technical innovation but also strengthened collaborations between academia and industry. As the RMC wraps up, participants depart with new insights and valuable connections that will drive progress in the field of meat science. We look forward to seeing you at the 78th RMC at Ohio State University in 2025.

In today's episode, we have Dr. Derris Burnett, who uses immersive, hands-on experiences to revolutionize agricultural education, yielding meaningful outcomes. By providing initiatives like MANRRS he aims to transform agricultural education, giving minority students opportunities that break barriers and foster inclusive growth. Dr. Burnett's approach centers on impactful learning experiences, His 'Farm to Fork Rabbit Program' also focuses on sustainable animal production, helping students gain skills that prepare them as future leaders in the field.

Join us as we welcome Dr. Steven Lonergan, a prominent expert in meat science and global food policy. We will discuss the importance of asking key questions to students, clients, and customers about their goals and motivations for achieving them and how students can learn to apply these questions. Dr. Lonergan brings invaluable insights into the intersections of technology and education. Don't miss this engaging conversation!

In this episode of Meatspad, we're joined by Dr. Derico Setyabrata, an assistant professor of Animal Science at the University of Arkansas, as we dive deep into the world of freezing practices in the meat industry. Join us as we explore how freezing techniques can enhance or compromise meat quality. From current industry practices to the implications of color and shelf life, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how freezing impacts meat from farm to table. Is freezing a friend or foe? Tune in to find out how the application of the freezing method can make all the difference!

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Meatspad Podcast! Today, we are delighted to host Mandy Carr and Jessica Lancaster from the National Cattlemen's Association, who are part of the Beef Checkoff Program. They bring a wealth of expertise and passion to the table, overseeing this vital initiative that supports and promotes the beef industry through strategic funding. Their work with the Checkoff Program is crucial in enhancing beef quality, new product development, food safety, nutrition, and consumer education. Tune in as we dive into a compelling discussion about their impactful roles and how the Checkoff Program drives positive change. Get ready for an insightful conversation with us!

Today's interview will feature Bob Campbell, the Director of Technical Services at MPSC Inc. We will discuss the application of Rinse & Chill® in meat plants. The discussion will cover important topics such as the risks associated with improper meat chilling processes, how Rinse & Chill® can enhance tenderness compared to traditional chilling methods, and key highlights of this beef plant procedure.

In this episode, we have Dr. Annika Thies as a guest. She is part of Dr. Mahesh N. Nair's team at Colorado State University and works on projects studying the agricultural and food sectors that affect people's meat consumption in Germany. The episode covers topics such as consumer preferences for meat color at retail and how markets can determine discounts. We also explore differences between Germany and the U.S. in meat science, graduate programs, and the meat industry. Additionally, we discuss how meat science is taught more practically in the U.S. and the interconnection of science with the industry.

Join us as we delve into the world of smart packaging with Dr. Max Grell, a leading scientist in sensor technology. Dr. Grell explains how BlakBear's innovative gas sensors work within meat packaging to provide real-time freshness data. We explore the potential benefits for both the meat industry and consumers, from minimizing waste to ensuring product quality. Learn about the challenges of integrating new technologies into traditional industries and how Blackbear is navigating this exciting frontier.

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Ann Brackenridge, Head of R&D and Innovation at Cargill Protein, to discuss the latest trends in the food industry. Dr. Brackenridge offers insights into the rising popularity of pickles and the influence of Latin flavors on product development. We explore how consumer preferences shape innovations in the sector and discuss the crucial role of social media in spreading these trends. Additionally, we delve into the importance of transparency in the industry and how definitions of value and convenience are evolving in today's food landscape.

Welcome back to the MeatsPad podcast! Our hosts are joined by Dr. Christi Calhoun and Dr. Robert Maddock from AMSA to discuss the Meat and Poultry Processor Technical Assistance Network. This initiative, supported by a billion-dollar USDA grant, aims to enhance the meat supply chain in response to recent shortages. Tune in to learn about the new Meat Locker website, which will offer a wealth of resources from basic FAQs to in-depth scientific research. Discover how AMSA is working to support small and mid-sized meat processors with accessible, vetted, and up-to-date information.

Join us today with Dr. John Scanga at the Reciprocal Meat Conference. Dr. Scanga discusses AI's transformative role in agriculture, particularly in enhancing efficiency and accuracy in the meat industry. Learn about the potential of AI tools to improve operations, from writing and editing to data management.

In this week's episode, we are joined by Dr. Gary Sullivan from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and Dr. Ranjith Ramanathan from Oklahoma State University. We dive into the fascinating world of high pressure processing (HPP) and its applications in the meat industry. Dr. Sullivan explains how HPP is used to control pathogens and improve food safety, while Dr. Ramanathan shares insights on their collaborative research focused on retaining the desirable color of beef during this process. Learn about the science behind HPP, the challenges of maintaining meat color, and the innovative solutions being developed to enhance meat quality and safety.

In this week's episode, we welcome Dr. Jeng-Hung Liu from the University of Guam, who shares insights into the recent USDA meat and poultry processing grant. Dr. Liu emphasizes workforce development in the meat industry, integration of aquaculture, and the new Meat Lab in Guam. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities in meat processing in island regions, including collaborations with the Federated States of Micronesia and the University of Puerto Rico.

Join us as we welcome Amy Steward from Tyson Foods to discuss the meat science community's role in supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities. Amy will highlight how AMSA members donate high-quality protein and prepare meals to help families during tough times. This episode emphasizes the importance of community involvement and charitable efforts in the meat industry.

Welcome to today's episode, joined by the Shark Farmers, Rob and Emily Sharkey. Rob, a passionate fifth-generation farmer, and Emily, a skilled media producer, dedicate themselves to sharing real agricultural stories. We explore the importance of connecting consumers with the origins of their food, debunking farming misconceptions, and their active engagement with farming communities and the broader public through radio, podcasts, and TV.

In today's episode, we sit down with Dr. Bob Delmore, a respected educator in meat science. Dr. Delmore shares his insights on effective teaching methods, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of engaging students. Tune in to learn about his unique approach to education and the future of meat science.

Kicking off our podcast series at RMC 2024, we're joined by Collette Kaster, CEO of the American Meat Science Association, over 1,100 participants and new industry trends in sustainability and nutrition.

In today's podcast, we talk to Nicholas Walker, CEO of TradeCafe. Nicholas will talk about the global meat trade and how digital solutions can improve the process, reduce errors, and minimize losses in the transportation and sale of meat. We will gain insight into the complex network of producers, wholesalers, and logistics involved in the meat trade and explore the latest technologies to improve efficiency and environmental sustainability. Look forward to an insightful discussion!

In this week's episode, we speak with Maria Luisa Flores, who serves as both the Sustainability Manager and the Meat Business Unit Manager at Esmeralda Corp. Having contributed significantly over a 30 year career, she has made strides in developing meat business lines and managing environmental wastewater treatment. We discuss with Maria Luisa her early career steps and the importance of home-based education, and she shares her experiences leading a team in a well-known Peruvian meat industry company.

In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Keith Belk, Meat Science Professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at Colorado State University. He will explore the critical transition from basic research to its vital applications in the meat industry. We will also discuss the intricacies of experimental design, hypothesis testing, and the impact of scientific rigor on industry standards. This discussion will enlighten anyone interested in how scientific discoveries drive advancements in meat processing and safety.

In today's episode, we're exploring the meat processing industry with AMSA's experts, Dr. Robert Maddock and Dr. Christi Calhoun. They'll discuss a USDA-supported program aiding small to medium-sized processors in strengthening the meat supply chain. We'll also highlight "The Meat Locker," a vital online resource for industry professionals, offering a range of no-cost services and information on food safety, business, and more. Tune in for a concise look at how this initiative is transforming meat processing.

Welcome to this new episode, where we discuss with Alessandra Bulgarelli, Business Development Manager and R&D Senior Technologist at Kerry. We also dive into some questions from small meat processors on cold chain management, meat microbiology, oxidation, and explore new preservation technologies.

In today's episode, we're joined by Megan Wortman, representing the American Lamb Board. We explore the efforts to promote American lamb, discussing the board's initiatives focused on educating consumers about the quality, nutrition, and sustainability of domestically-produced lamb. Megan also shares insights into her career journey, transitioning from a background in agricultural policy in Washington D.C. to her current role in marketing and promoting food products

In today's episode, our co-hosts Drs. Francisco Najar and Phil Bass explore the world of beef production by comparing grain and grass finishing. They also discuss the role of nutrition, genetics, and consumer education.

In today's episode, we are joined once again by Dr. María de la Salud, who holds the position of Full-time Professor C at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), with whom we will discuss the revolution of alternative proteins, exploring regulation and current challenges.  We're excited to have Dr. María de la Salud join us again in today's episode. Our discussion will revolve around the recent revolution in alternative proteins, where we'll explore the current regulatory landscape and the challenges being faced by the industry. Additionally, we will delve into the technological developments that are shaping the future of the industry, including plant-based meat printing technology.

Today, we're excited to share an episode from the Practically Ranching podcast featuring an interview with one of our co-hosts, Dr. Phil Bass. In this conversation, we dive deep into the world of beef production and the cattle industry. Throughout the interview, Dr. Bass offers valuable insights into important industry topics, such as human nutrition, beef cattle genetics, livestock selection, value-based marketing, economics, animal identification, exports, public land use, and beef promotional efforts. The conversation also touches on meat science topics, including carcass weight, USDA grading standards, and portion sizes of steaks in today's market.

In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Ranjith Ramanathan, a Professor at Oklahoma State University and fresh meat color expert. Together we discuss his recent research titled "Economic Loss, Amount of Beef Discarded, Natural Resources Wastage, and Environmental Impact Due to Beef Discoloration." This study sheds light on the economic and environmental implications of beef discoloration, revealing staggering losses and waste within the industry.

In today's episode, we're joined by M.S. Megan Eckhardt, a passionate Ph.D. candidate at WTAMU and advocate for the meat industry. Megan serves as the AMSA Student Board President and Student Representative for the IFT Muscle Foods Division. Throughout our conversation, we explore key topics such as leadership, community building, and the future of the meat industry. Megan shares insights on the importance of mentorship, empowerment, and hands-on learning in shaping the next generation of meat industry professionals.

In today's episode, we have Dr. Mahesh N. Nair, Associate Professor of Meat Science at Colorado State University, discussing food packaging, specifically Modified Atmosphere Packaging (MAP). He explores how MAP impacts meat color and shelf life, examining the use of gases like oxygen, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide in packaging. Dr. Nair also delves into the delicate balance required to achieve vibrant meat color while ensuring product longevity. We delve into consumer preferences in the US versus Europe regarding packaging atmospheres, the role of carbon monoxide in preserving the coveted cherry-red color, and the challenges of balancing tenderness and color in aged meats.

On today's episode, Dr. Pablo Manzano shares the mic with Francisco to uncover numbers and facts around the water use propaganda surrounding livestock. Dr. Pablo Manzano, an esteemed ecologist with expertise in grasslands, domestic and wild animals, at The Basque Centre for Climate Change (BC3) What is required to produce 1 kg of beef?

In today's episode, join Drs. Francisco Najar and Phil Bass as they share insights on the upcoming meat industry shows, events, and networking opportunities. Dr. Bass also explores his book, "It's Not a Cow." The title cleverly hints at the common lack of awareness in our industrialized society regarding how food is grown and transported. This book sheds light on the often-overlooked and sometimes unfairly criticized individuals who raise cattle for meat and milk, presenting their story with precision and authenticity. Get a sneak peek into the fascinating revelations of "It's Not a Cow" on this episode.

In today's episode, we feature Dr. Eric Berg, a meat scientist who will discuss the role of meat and animal-sourced proteins in a healthy diet. Dr. Berg has utilized pigs as a model to investigate human digestion, emphasizing the significance of insulin balance and amino acids in dietary considerations.

In today's episode, we're joined by Neville McNaughton, a Specialist in Dairy Plant Design and an accomplished Cheesemaker with extensive experience, including multinational ventures. Neville will enlighten us on the world of Sanitary Designs and Dry Aging Technology. We'll also delve into various related subtopics, exploring challenges in conventional refrigeration, potential applications beyond dry aging, and the critical aspects of moisture control and temperature modulation.

In today's episode, we have the privilege of hosting Dr. Rhonda Miller, a Professor at Texas A&M University. Dr. Miller will delve into the topic of oral behavior in meat consumption, unraveling the mysteries of how individuals interact with and enjoy different meat textures. Throughout our conversation, we'll explore key subtopics, such as the distinct categories of oral behaviors and how these preferences influence meat choices. Dr. Miller's groundbreaking research sheds light on the profound connection between oral behavior and meat texture, challenging conventional wisdom and opening new avenues for understanding consumer preferences.

In today's episode, we welcome Dr. David Newman, Senior Vice President of Market Growth at the National Pork Board. Dr. Newman shares insights on promoting and marketing pork, emphasizing its value and discussing innovative strategies for diverse consumer engagement. We explore marketing challenges, his expertise in enhancing pork's market standing, and the ongoing innovations in pork fabrication. The conversation also touches on consumer perceptions, market dynamics, and efforts to reshape public views on the nutritional benefits of pork.

In today's episode, we are joined by Dr. Lynn Delmore, a Food Industry Consultant, to explore the journey of securing USDA approval for meat processing plants and delve into food safety aspects within the U.S. meat industry. Our conversation addresses critical topics like HACCP plans and SSOPs, highlighting the significance of keeping abreast of evolving regulatory demands. We also tackle the crucial issue of allergen control and the ever-changing regulatory framework in the meat industry.

In this episode, Drs. Francisco Najar and Phil Bass address multiple questions from small meat processes regarding meat quality. They also discuss about the balance between the use of growth promotants and marbling as well as how to monitor quality. In addition, they explain the importance of branding, value proposition and understanding your consumer.