Daily News Update, Jan. 30, 2008

Texas Beef Council launches redesigned Web site

The Texas Beef Council (TBC) recently unveiled an updated version of their consumer-focused checkoff funded Web site, www.txbeef.org. Complete with delicious beef recipes, cooking tips and beef nutrition information, the new Web site features include instructional beef cooking videos, a recipe rating system and a 'My Profile' section where visitors can create a recipe book to save their favorite beef dishes.

Offering consumers a more interactive method of learning important beef information, the new website encourages visitors to stay longer and come back more often.

Txbeef.org provides users an opportunity to visit several sections such as the 'Healthy Living' section where they can learn about the power in protein, enjoy tips on sharing family mealtime and discover the importance of including nutrient-rich beef in a healthy diet.

"TBC is taking full advantage of current technology in order to maximize the user experience," said Linda Joy Stovall, TBC Board member and chair of the communications committee. "An efficient and cost-effective tool to reach consumers with beef information and recipes, txbeef.org enables TBC to reach visitors on their terms, providing beef information and recipes to consumers instantaneously."

In efforts to provide a more attractive and user-friendly site, TBC worked with a production company to develop web videos for the new site. In 2007, a production crew filmed the videos at the TBC office, generating 10 new videos and personalizing seven videos created by the national checkoff.

The 17 videos, featuring recipe demonstrations, instructional beef information and more, will be rolled out on the Web site over the next year and a half.

Since its inception in 2000, the txbeef.org Web site continues to be a success with over 1 million unique visitors last year alone, averaging nearly 100,000 visitors per month and over 3,000 visitors per day.

TBC drives consumers to the Web site through numerous events and promotions, with all TBC program areas working to incorporate the Web site on promotional literature, banners and materials.