16-05-2025
A cut above the rest: Butchers showcase their skills in Penn State competition
UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. (WTAJ) — Many from across the state competed in the 2025 Best Butcher Contest at the Penn State meat lab to see who had the best cut of meat.
Competitors were judged by four expert judges on their technique, precision and yield. The butchers showcased their skills and had just 45 minutes to do so. The event was also meant to showcase the importance that butchers play in the supply chain.
'For us, it's kind of twofold, shining a light on their skills and their craft, but also educating them on how they can better sell these, within their retail shops,' Northeast Beef Promotion Initiative Director of Marketing Kaitlyn Swope said.
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Swope explained that the butcher's yield was important as they wanted to minimize waste and utilize the beef efficiently. The butchers and those who play a role in those businesses used the competition as an opportunity to fine-tune their craft and figure out how they could continue to deliver a high-quality product.
'We have a lot of spectators that are just watching the contest today, kind of seeing, maybe if they want to do it in the future,' Swope said.
The contest was held in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Association of Meat Processors' annual meeting.
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