New research award established in honour of the late Dr. Ira Mandell

Beef Farmers of Ontario recently established the Dr. Ira Mandell Research Award with Animal Biosciences PhD student Madeline McLennan announced as the inaugural recipient. The annual $2,500 award recognizes exceptional research that advances knowledge, innovation and sustainability within Ontario’s beef sector. It honours the life and legacy of the late Dr. Ira Mandell, a respected professor and researcher in the University of Guelph’s Department of Animal Biosciences.

Dr. Ira Mandell made lasting contributions to beef research at the University of Guelph throughout his distinguished career as a professor. An inspiring educator, he taught generations of undergraduate students in anatomy, physiology, and animal nutrition, helping to shape the next generation of animal scientists and researchers. Dr. Mandell's research focused on the relationship between animal nutrition and meat quality, exploring how feeding strategies could improve cattle performance, enhance beef eating quality, and increase its nutritional value. He was among the first researchers to investigate enriching beef with omega-3 fatty acids by incorporating fish-based ingredients into cattle diets, pioneering work that helped expand understanding of how nutrition can influence the health benefits of beef. His research has had a lasting impact on beef production by identifying innovative feeding approaches that improve both animal performance.He also served for many years as faculty supervisor of the University of Guelph Meat Science Laboratory, mentoring students and advancing applied research.

The full press release with more information on the award and Madeline's PhD research can be found at: https://www.ontariobeef.com/communications/news-media/new-research-award-honours-dr-ira-mandell-s-lasting-contributions-to-ontario-s-beef-sector/