Technology and evolving supply chains in the beef and pork industries. (February 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Maples, Joshua G.; Lusk, Jayson L.; Peel, Derrell S.
• Is Part Of: Food policy. Volume 83(2019)
• Page Start: 346
• Page End: 354
• Publication Date: 2019-02
• Subjects: Beef -- Livestock -- Productivity -- Pork -- Technology; Food supply -- Periodicals; Food security -- Periodicals; Food -- Quality -- Periodicals; Food Supply -- Periodicals; Alimentation -- Périodiques; Electronic journals; 338.1905
• DOI: 10.1016/j.foodpol.2017.07.011
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-9192

Abstract

Highlights: We explore factors driving productivity growth in the U.S. beef and pork industries. Each sector improved efficiency through differing supply chains and market structures. Technological innovations have played key roles in productivity growth. Abstract: The U.S. beef and pork industries have achieved dramatic productivity growth in recent decades; however, the supply chain and market structure of each industry has evolved in different ways. Technological advances have been a key reason for productivity growth, with pharmaceutical innovations playing a major role. This article canvasses the similarities and differences in how beef and pork flow through their respective supply chains and documents the changes, causes, and benefits of the increased efficiency in each industry. Past research is summarized in a broad view of the livestock industry and policy and trade issues are discussed. Such a perspective allows for the consideration of what the future might hold for each industry, and how technological innovation influences product quality, trade, and market structure.