Meat New Zealand has criticised what it calls US ‘scaremongering’ tactics over beef from New Zealand that is being trialled by US fastfood giant McDonald’s.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more


Following an announcement at the beginning of April that a shortage of lean domestic beef had prompted the burger group to trial beef imported from Australia and New Zealand, media reports in the US raised concerns about the quality of imported meat.


The NZ meat industry has fought back angrily, with the US manager of Meat New Zealand, Andrew Burtt, saying that the concerns had been raised by parties prepared to ignore the facts in “their desperate attachment to protectionism”.


“The safety and naturalness of New Zealand beef has been wrongly attacked,” said Burtt in a statement at the weekend.


Earlier this month just-food.com reported on McDonald’s trials of imported meat. Members can click here to read the story.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

To find out about the benefits of full membership of just-food.com, please visit: https://www.just-food.com/offer

Just Food Excellence Awards - Have you nominated?

Nominations are now open for the prestigious Just Food Excellence Awards - one of the industry's most recognised programmes celebrating innovation, leadership, and impact. This is your chance to showcase your achievements, highlight industry advancements, and gain global recognition. Don't miss the opportunity to be honoured among the best - submit your nomination today!

Nominate Now