May 25, 2010

AUSTIN, Texas — Preserving the legend of the North American Bison, the Texas Bison Association (TBA) and several private companies within the Texas bison industry are sending a taste of Texas to American soldiers serving overseas. The TBA has partnered with Frontier Meats of Fort Worth, Texas Buffalo Exchange of Gainesville, and Lone Star Meats and Pederson Natural Farms of Hamilton, to deliver a “whole buffalo’s worth” of bison jerky to the soldiers of the Lone Star Battalion serving in Afghanistan.

“We are deeply indebted to the men and women serving in our Armed Forces who protect this country and preserve the freedoms that many of us take for granted,” says Tim Frasier, president of the Texas Bison Association. “We wanted to give them a taste of home and show them in a tangible way that we truly appreciate all that they do. Because bison are such a significant part of our Texas history and Western culture, we thought that bison jerky would be a uniquely American sentiment.”

Growing in popularity among consumers and restaurants, bison meat is very lean and has become popular in supermarkets across the country. It contains far less calories and cholesterol than either beef or chicken and is a great alternative for people who want to improve their diet without giving up red meat. In addition, bison contributes about 69 percent more iron to a diet than beef and contains higher levels of vitamins and minerals, and is more non-allergenic and digestible than most other meats.

The Texas Bison Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1994 by bison owners and individuals concerned with the preservation and promotion of the North American Plains Bison. Today, the TBA provides assistance in raising and producing bison and promotes the nutritional health aspects of the North American Bison to consumers. The TBA hosts two major events during the year — the Texas Bison Exposition, which features exhibitors from the bison industry, informative seminars on raising bison, the World Championship Buffalo Burger Challenge, and more; and its Spring Banquet & Fund-Raising Auction, an event which brings together bison industry professionals and enthusiasts for a fun celebration of the North American Bison during “Texas Bison Week.’

For membership or sponsorship information, call 512.331.8618 or visit www.TexasBison.org.

Headquartered in Austin, Texas, the Texas Bison Association is a non-profit organization of producers, ranchers and bison enthusiasts. For more information on Texas bison, bison ranching or membership in the Texas Bison Association, call 512.331.8618 or visit www.TexasBison.org.