Florida highlights cattle industry during National Beef Month

FORT MYERS, Fla. —

May is National Beef Month, and Florida is celebrating its cattle industry with insights from a local rancher and a dietitian.

Registered dietitian nutritionist Gisela Bouvier explained the significance of beef in Florida agriculture.

"Florida actually ranks ninth in the nation for cow-calf production," Bouvier said. "Beef isn’t just a big deal nutritionally — it’s our top-grossing agricultural commodity in the state. It’s a major driver for a lot of hardworking Florida families."

Rick Hartman, a local cattle rancher and Chairman of the Florida Beef Council, shared the state's deep-rooted history in cattle ranching.

"Ranching has been part of our state for over 500 years," Hartman said. "We’re actually one of the oldest cattle-ranching traditions in the whole country," he said.

Hartman also highlighted the environmental benefits of Florida's pastures.

"Florida ranchers help preserve open land and wildlife habitat across the state," he said. "Farmers keep the pasture lands from being developed. It’s good for the environment, it’s good for wildlife, and honestly — it’s good for all of Florida."

Bouvier discussed beef's nutritional value, emphasizing its role in a healthy diet. She also shared three recipes to showcase beef's versatility: Beef Top Sirloin and Potato Kabobs, Rock and Roll Wraps, and Tangy Lime Grilled Beef Top Round Steak.

For more from Bouvier, you can check out her website here.

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