Earls is still dealing with the backlash from their decision to move away from Canadian beef suppliers.

The restaurant chain is hoping that it's renewed relationship with Canadian ranchers will help put the public outrage to rest.

"There were misconsceptions around what our motives were definitely, but there is no question that we learned something from all the controversy." said Mo Jessa, Earls President.

Jessa adds that the decision to switch to an American supplier was only made after their original Albertan supplier was unable to mee the demands of supplying 66 restaurants.

Over the past six weeks, Earls has been searching for Canadian suppliers and ranchers who can provide beef that’s raised without the use of steroids, antibiotics or added hormones, while being held to ethical farming standards.

"Consumers today care about animal welfare standards, and we are pushing for third party audits in the system that verify that great ranchers get to have credit for that." said Jessa.

Earls opened its first location in Edmonton in 1982, after Leroy Earl Fuller and his son Stanley Earl Fuller had the simple idea to open "a laid-back burger and beer joint".

A website has been setup, to educate users on Earls relationship with their beef suppliers.

For more information, visit Earls Beef Report.