ABSTRACT

This study investigated beef consumption function in Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State. Data relevant to the research were collected through the use of both structured questionnaires and personal interview with beef consumers. Information were sought on such variables as socio economic and other variables of interest that encourages beef consumption function and the quality of beef consumed annually. The study area was stratified into 10 based on the number of the autonomous communities, 5 were selected by simple random sampling procedure. The list of household formed the frame from which a sample of 150 beef consumers were selected. The data collected were analyzed by use of statistical techniques such as frequencies, percentages, test of significance, regression analysis. The result reveals that 66.69% of beef consumers consume beef because of their personal interests. 26.52% of beef consumers consumes between 100 — 124kg of beef annually whereas only 4.55% of beef consumers consumes a higher quantity of 175kg and above per annum. Price elasticity of demand for beef indicates that the demand for beef is inelastic. Also price elasticity of demand for beef substitutes is inelastic. More so, income elasticity, family size elasticity of demand for beef indicates that they are all inelastic. The economic implication is that beef is an essential commodity whose demand is not easily affected by fluctuation in price household income, and family size in the study area. This is however, against a priori expectation. In summary, Government should encourage the establishment of cattle farms in the state. Discourage the activities of middlemen and ensure a uniform weighing device for beef in the state market.