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While prime cuts remain the mainstay of Brazilian beef exports, other products are gaining strategic importance in international trade. In recent years, Mato Grosso has stood out not only in beef sales but also in the marketing of byproducts, such as bovine penis, known as "vergalho," destined mainly for the Asian market. The expansion of this type of trade contributes to better utilization of the animal and increased profitability of the livestock production chain.<\/p>\n
Besides domestic sales, with an average price of R$ 21 per kilo, bovine penis has among its main international destinations Hong Kong, where the value per ton can reach US$ 6 thousand. The product is exported in its raw form, following strict sanitary protocols.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe sale of raw penis is continuous, with an average monthly volume between four and five tons,\u201d says Alan Gutierrez, marketing manager at SulBeef, one of the Mato Grosso industries authorized to export this byproduct. According to him, the regularity of sales demonstrates the existence of a consolidated market for this type of product.<\/p>\n
In Asian cuisine, especially in countries and regions with a strong tradition of consuming the whole animal, the penis is used in cooked preparations, stews, and typical dishes, valued for its texture and ability to absorb seasonings and broths. This cultural characteristic sustains a stable demand for bovine by-products, such as offal and parts less conventional to the Western palate, expanding commercial opportunities for exporting countries.<\/p>\n
According to Bruno de Jesus Andrade, Project Director at the Mato Grosso Institute of Meat (Imac), this type of market highlights the strength and competitiveness of Mato Grosso's livestock industry. \u201cMato Grosso has a robust, efficient livestock sector that is increasingly aligned with international demands. The ability to access different markets, including for by-products, demonstrates the level of organization of the production chain and the state's potential to add value at all stages.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhen we expand our portfolio and serve markets with different consumption profiles, we strengthen the economy, reduce risks, and increase the competitiveness of meat produced in Mato Grosso on the global stage,\u201d emphasizes the Projects Director of Imac.<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n