Meat Inflation January 2026

Britain’s meat inflation eases in January, but Ramadan set to push Halal lamb prices higher

Britain’s meat inflation slowed sharply in January, according to the latest AIMS Meat Inflation Report, although upward pressure is expected to return as Ramadan approaches.

The January 2026 report shows that average meat prices rose by just 0.32% (£0.04 per kg) during the month. However, year-on-year inflation remains elevated, with average prices up 12.58% (£1.38 per kg) compared with January 2025.

Monthly trends across beef, lamb, pork and chicken

During January, all four major categories — beef, lamb, pork and chicken — saw some individual cuts remain flat or fall slightly in price. Overall movements, however, varied by species.

Beef prices increased by 0.75% month on month, driven largely by a £1.18 per kg rise in roasting joints. Lamb prices also edged higher, rising 1.58%, with leg joints up £2.11 per kg. Both cuts were heavily promoted by retailers during December, and January pricing suggests supermarkets sought to recover margin following the festive period.

By contrast, pork prices fell slightly, down 0.14%, while chicken prices dropped more sharply by 5.68%. Together, these declines offset beef and lamb increases, keeping overall meat inflation modest for the month.

Annual inflation still driven by beef and lamb

Looking at the 12-month period from 1 February 2025 to 31 January 2026, all four categories recorded inflation, although the scale varied significantly.

Chicken showed the lowest annual increase at just 0.22%, with several cuts — including bone-in and filleted thighs — cheaper than a year earlier. This has been influenced by retailer price-matching and rollback promotions, particularly from Aldi and Asda.

Pork prices rose 1.27% year on year, led by roasting cuts. Leg increased by 10.87%, while shoulder rose 10.51%. Despite this, AIMS notes that pork continues to offer strong consumer value, aligning with AHDB’s current “British Pork, But Not As You Know It” campaign.

However, it is beef and lamb that continue to drive overall inflation. Lamb prices are up 4.46% year on year, while beef has surged by 29.9%, reflecting tight supply and strong demand.

Ramadan expected to lift Halal lamb prices

Looking ahead, AIMS expects further upward pressure on prices during February and March. With Valentine’s Day approaching, beef and lamb steaks are likely to rise. In addition, Ramadan (17 February to 18 March) is expected to significantly increase demand for Halal lamb and Halal chicken.

Weekly lamb throughput is already down by 2,387 head (1.22%), suggesting farmers may be holding stock back in anticipation of stronger Ramadan-driven liveweight prices.

Source: Aims | 5 February 2026