USMEF Audio: Kansas Corn Delegation Arrives in Europe for U.S. Burger Launch

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March 15, 2010 -  Five representatives of the Kansas Corn Commission arrived in Amsterdam today for the launching of a premium U.S. beef burger that will be featured at more than 120 Hilton Hotel restaurants across Europe, thanks to promotional support from Kansas corn producers.

Billed as the “Best Burger of the World,” the classic sandwich will be one of the most prominently featured U.S. beef items since the agreement was reached last year between the United States and the European Union on a new duty-free quota for high-quality beef derived from non-hormone-treated cattle. One of the U.S. Meat Export Federation’s (USMEF) strategies in Europe is to enhance the image and reputation of U.S. beef through prestigious venues such as top-tier hotels.

The Kansas delegation includes Commissioners Brian Baalman of Menlo, Patrick Ross of Lawrence, Kenneth McCauley of White Cloud and Mike Brzon of Courtland. They are accompanied by Kansas Corn Commission Executive Director Jere White, who says the Hilton burger promotion presents a very exciting opportunity for corn producers, who add value to their product through exports of U.S. beef.

White Audio Clip #1:                :22                    Outcue:            “…to be part of it.”

The Kansas Corn Commission will be signing an agreement Tuesday reflecting its support for the promotion, in cooperation with USMEF, Hilton Hotels and Amsterdam-based importer Nice to Meat. The delegation will also have meetings throughout the week with other European importers and distributors and the chance to learn more about growth opportunities for U.S. beef and pork products in Europe.  

White Audio Clip #2:                :39                    Outcue:            “… all of those efforts.”

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The U.S. Meat Export Federation (www.USMEF.org) is the trade association responsible for developing international markets for the U.S. red meat industry and is funded by USDA, exporting companies, and the beef, pork, corn and soybean checkoff programs.

USMEF complies with all equal opportunity, non-discrimination and affirmative action measures applicable to it by contract, government rule or regulation or as otherwise provided by law.