CANADA — Earls Kitchen + Bar is facing backlash from Canadians for its new policy to only serve 100-per-cent certified humane beef.
As a result of this new company standard, the restaurant chain will now be acquiring its beef from cows in Kansas, not Alberta.
The change in meat providers is taking place because Earls will no longer use beef raised with the use of antibiotics or steroids. The company claims it’s changing meat providers because it could not find a Canadian supplier that meets its new policy requirements. According to Earls, the U.S. certification and documentation programs are more up-to-date and have more readily available information.
“We’re not quite ready to provide the level of documentation they’re looking for,” Rob McNabb, general manager of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, told the National Post. “But our intent is to meet the market needs as quickly as we can and offer an even broader program.”
Alberta politicians took to Twitter to voice their displeasure: “Let’s hope every bar and restaurant NOT called Earls has an increase in business starting tomorrow. I won’ be setting foot in that place,” says Interim Alberta Tory leader Ric McIver.
“Disappointed to see @earlsrestaurant move away from Alberta beef. Alberta farmers work hard to produce the best beef in the world,” tweeted Alberta Wildrose Party leader Brian Jean.
Canada does have a committee to ensure beef industry standards, but it’s still in its infancy. The Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef was founded in partnership by beef industry and environmental leaders in 2014.
