Conceptualization and designing of a beef quality determination framework based on beef supply chain in Tanzania

A framework for determining the quality of beef was developed based on the assessment of Beef Supply Chain (BSC) between the slaughter and retail points. In this respect, slaughtering, distribution, retailing and consumer preferences models were developed for assessing the beef processing designed features (BPDFs) across the BSC specifically in Slaughtering Facilities (SFs), Beef Distributing Facilities (BDFs), and Beef Retailing Premises (BRPs) in Dar es Salaam and Mbeya cities. The organized ideas, rules and beliefs to a set known as a framework for determining the quality of beef was one of the outcomes of this study. This study suggests that the claim that beef-quality is a complex phenomenon and cannot be objectively determined is not always correct. Applicability of the designed framework is useful as it avoids mistakes and misunderstanding resulting from the desire to measure the quality of object. The study proposed the development of other frameworks for beef quality determination across other processing units (breeding, grazing, cattle transportation and post retailing activities for its preparation at household levels).   Key words: Beef quality determination, slaughtering facilities, beef distribution facilities, beef retailing premises, compliance level.