Chipotle sourcing beef from ‘Down Under’

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DENVER – In spite of efforts to source local ingredients, Chipotle Mexican Grill said it has begun buying beef from Australia.

“For many months now, we have struggled to get all of the beef we need from cattle raised without the use of antibiotics or added hormones, which is the cornerstone of our meat and dairy protocols,” said Steve Ells, chairman and co-CEO, during a July 21 call with financial analysts to discuss second-quarter performance. “When we have not been able to get enough beef that meets our high standards, we have temporarily filled that gap with conventionally raised beef and posted notices in our restaurants so customers are aware of the change. With the nation's beef supply at a 60-year low and our demand continuing to rise, it looks as if this challenge is going to continue, and we want to find a better solution, one that allows us to source as much beef as possible that meets our high standards.” 

The burrito chain began sourcing grass-fed beef from Australia in recent months to supplement the beef it purchases in the United States. Ells said the cattle are raised on pastures or range lands by ranchers whose practices align with Chipotle’s standards for humane animal farming.

“Over time, we hope that our demand for grass-fed beef will help provide an opportunity for more American ranchers to adopt a grass-fed program and help turn grass-fed beef into a more mainstream product in the United States,” Ells said. “We look forward to working with our supplier partners to meet this challenge.” 
Chipotle recently announced a goal to use at least 20 million lbs. of produce from farms within 350 miles of its restaurants this year. Locally sourced ingredients may include romaine lettuce, bell peppers, red onions, jalapeños and oregano, as well as avocados, citrus and cilantro, where available.