Stock theft, predators cost red meat industry millions

Farmers in the Eastern Cape suffer heavy losses from stock theft and jackal and caracal predation, said Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) national chairperson Arnold Brand.

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“In the case of stock theft, police managed to recover about a third of stolen animals,” said Brand. “The stock theft unit was the only unit that wasn’t disbanded with all the other police units, and farmers are grateful for this as they do an outstanding job.”He also spoke about consumer misconceptions.

“Many believe that red meat is unhealthy, that it contributes to coronary heart disease and cancer, and that it’s expensive in comparison with other protein sources. “But eating more red meat lowers blood pressure and eating it four times a week can help combat cholesterol. And, eating more low-fat red meat with less carbohydrates reduces acne breakouts.”