Texas Agriculture Commissioner Todd Staples criticized Chipotle’s decision to buy beef from Australia rather than domestically. The store said it made its decision as U.S. producers are unable to meet its needs.
“Chipotle hasn't called me, that’s for sure! I serve as the state’s agriculture commissioner, and my door is always open. Texas is home to the largest cattle herd in the nation, and our ranchers are always looking for new opportunities. Unfortunately, Chipotle says they want to import ‘responsibly raised’ beef by shipping it more than 8,000 miles from Australia, and in turn, increase their carbon emissions and costs. If the Chipotle CEO truly wants to be responsible, he should get together with me and Texas beef industry leaders so we can have a real discussion about ‘meating’ their needs. I encourage Chipotle diners to push Mr. Ells to work with us so they can enjoy fresh, healthy American beef."