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Russian Firm Boosts Meat Exports

Damate Group, Russia’s leading turkey meat producer, has reported a significant increase in its exports for the first nine months of 2024.

The company exported 8,300 tonnes of turkey and duck meat, which is double the amount exported in the same period last year.

Of this, turkey meat exports stood at 8,000 tonnes, with 6,300 tonnes coming from the Penza region and 1,700 tonnes from the Rostov region.

Damate has been exporting turkey to China since 2019, initially from the Penza region and later from the Rostov region starting at the end of 2023. Exports of duck meat from the Rostov region began at the start of 2024. China remains a key export market for Damate Group, which was the first Russian company to receive permission to export products to that country.

The company began developing its export business in 2015 and currently holds permits for deliveries to the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) countries and another 34 countries worldwide.

In 2023, Damate increased turkey meat production by 10%, reaching 237,000 tonnes in slaughter weight.

Interfax

Pickstock’s Scottish Expansion Approved Without Environmental Impact Assessment

Pickstock’s Scottish Expansion Moves Forward Without Environmental Impact Assessment

The English meat processing firm Pickstock has received approval to proceed with its multi-million pound expansion into Scotland without the need for an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). The Shropshire-based company plans to construct an abattoir near the A74(M) close to Ecclefechan in Dumfries and Galloway.

Despite local villagers’ concerns and a request for the Scottish government to review the council’s decision, the Planning, Architecture and Regeneration Directorate (PARD) concluded that the issues raised did not justify overturning the council’s stance. Consequently, a study of the potential environmental effects is not required.

Pickstock announced its plans for the new facility earlier this year, highlighting that the development would create up to 60 full-time jobs and reduce travel time for animals currently transported to its Telford facility.

Local residents had voiced worries about the “likely significant effects” on light pollution, flooding, traffic, and potential “human health impacts” of the proposals. However, the Scottish government determined that with the proposed mitigation measures, the development would not have “significant adverse effects” on the environment.

Read the original story at BBC News

Dawn Meats Secures Multimillion-Euro Contract as South Korea Opens Market to Irish Beef

Dawn Meats has celebrated the opening of the South Korean market to Irish beef for the first time this week, announcing a significant initial multimillion-euro contract for monthly shipments with a leading South Korean company.
This marks a major milestone for the company and the Irish beef industry.

Two Dawn Meats plants, located in Grannagh, Co Waterford, and Charleville, Co Cork, are among seven Irish plants that have received approval to supply beef cuts and offal to the South Korean market. Other approved suppliers include rivals Kepak, ABP Slaney Meats, and Liffey Meats.

Dawn Meats already has a presence in other markets in the region, including the Philippines and Japan, further solidifying its position as a key player in the global beef industry.

Original story by The Irish Times

 

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices: Supply, Demand, and Stability

Quotes

Base quotes from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €7.30/kg – €7.55/kg for well finished lambs (+QA bonus) on offer.  With well fleshed lambs in demand, some major processors have also increased paid carcass weight limits, with all main plants paying for a 23kg carcass.

Relatively tight lamb supplies combined with some stability in demand from the domestic and export markets have contributed to this firming of the trade all year. Tighter lamb supplies are also a feature in other key lamb producing regions of Europe and the UK with the latest Eurostat figures indicating a contraction in breeding flock numbers in many regions. The Irish ewe flock contracted by 3.7 per cent in the December 2023 census versus December 2022 levels. This decline in the ewe flock of 107,000 head is one factor contributing to the tightness in supplies currently.

Prices

Last weeks reported deadweight price increased by 15c/kg to €7.31/kg, reflective of the continuing improvement recorded in quoted prices from the major lamb processors. In the corresponding week in 2023 the reported deadweight price was €6.26/kg. The deadweight trade has also improved across the UK regions.

Reported spring lamb prices in mainland GB were the equivalent of €7.43/kg  last week (0c/kg) while in Northern Ireland there was a notable improvement in the trade to be €7.15/kg (+1c/kg).

Relatively tight supplies of lamb for slaughter in Northern Ireland combined with competition from the live export trade to both mainland GB and ROI contributed to this firming in the trade.

Southern Hemisphere prices remain well below European prices however they have improved significantly over the last few weeks, narrowing the price differential with the EU. With a lead time on product shipments this recent improvement in deadweight prices should impact their competitiveness on EU markets in the medium to  longer term. Prices this week took a jump and are at €5.21/kg and €4.38/kg for Australia and New Zealand respectively increasing by 21c/kg and 3c/kg after a period of mostly week on week increases for the past 15 weeks.

Throughput

There was a decrease in the total sheep kill in DAFM approved plants last week to 44,465 head, compared to 58,188 the same week in 2023. Tighter supplies has been a feature of the 2024 lamb season to date with a smaller lamb crop, a difficult lambing and changeable grass growing conditions all impacting lamb availability for processing. Total TYD slaughter is down 9% on 2023 to total 2,140,618 head.

Bord Bia

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update: Throughput and Outlook

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update: Throughput and Outlook

Throughput

There were 39,969  cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, a slight reduction of just over 500 head from the previous week. This uplift is primarily due to an increase in the cow kill when compared to the previous week.

Prime cattle throughput YTD is currently on par with the same period last year at 1,080,480 head although a notable tightening in prime cattle availability is expected as we move into the final quarter of the year. A contraction in cattle numbers on the ground and a lively export trade have contributed to this outlook with numbers expected to remain tight for much of 2025.

Average carcase weights also continue to trend below previous years with the combination of a challenging grass growing season and a growing dairy influence on the prime cattle kill playing a role in the decline. The downward trend in average carcase weights is expected to continue in the short to medium term with calf registrations to suckler cows continuing to decline, while the number of beef sired calves produced from the dairy herd continues to increase.

Prices

There was a lift in the steady base quotes at Irish meat plants this week in response to tighter supplies and an expected increase in retail and foodservice demand for the Christmas period. In general, producers were offered a base price of €5.10/kg for steers with reports of up to €5.20/kg available. Starting quotes for heifers are in the region of €5.20/kg this week with similar room for negotiation being reported. The trade for young bulls was also described as steady, with prices of between €5.35/kg and €5.40/kg on-offer for R grading animals under 24 months of age.

The cow trade remains relatively steady, with well-fleshed O+ grading suckler cows being offered prices of €4.65-4.75/kg, while prices for O grading dairy cows generally range from €4.55-4.65/kg. A significant proportion of the cow kill have achieved a conformation score of P in recent months and the prices available for these animals vary significantly based on grade, weight and quality.

For the week ending 27th October 2024, the average price paid by Irish beef processors for R3 increased slightly by 5c/kg to be at €5.12/kg. This remained 54c/kg ahead the corresponding week in 2023 when the R3 steer price was €4.58/kg. Note that reported prices exclude VAT but include all bonus payments such as in-spec bonus, breed-based producer groups etc.

EU and UK prices:

Across the EU, the average reported price for R3 grading young bulls was €5.38//kg (excluding VAT) for the week ending 27th October, 2024. This is 49c higher than week 43 of last year when prices averaged €4.89/kg for this category.

In the UK, tighter cattle supplies and firm demand have meant deadweight beef prices have continued to firm. This week the average UK R3 steer price increased by 3c/kg to €6.16/kg.

Bord Bia

Freshness Sealed: The Power of Antimicrobial Packaging

As the food industry seeks ever-more efficient ways to extend product shelf life and ensure safety, antimicrobial packaging is emerging as a promising solution. This cutting-edge technology utilizes materials that actively reduce or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, helping keep meat and other perishable products fresher for longer.

Researchers are exploring various materials and compounds in antimicrobial packaging, and their findings are exciting. One notable development involves chitosan, a naturally occurring biopolymer derived from the shells of crustaceans, combined with nano-silica particles. Chitosan has already demonstrated impressive results in preserving the quality of fruits, slowing microbial growth and extending shelf life without compromising taste or texture. Now, scientists believe that this material could have similar benefits for meat products.

Studies on fruits have shown that chitosan, when integrated with nano-silica, can significantly delay spoilage by creating a barrier against bacteria and other microorganisms. This research suggests that chitosan-based antimicrobial packaging could help the meat industry tackle some of its greatest challenges, such as spoilage and foodborne illnesses.

The introduction of antimicrobial packaging could be particularly transformative for the meat sector, which faces strict regulations and high demand for quality and freshness. By reducing the microbial load on meat products, this technology has the potential to extend shelf life considerably, providing benefits across the supply chain—from producers and retailers to consumers.

In addition to chitosan, scientists are investigating other antimicrobial agents, such as essential oils and bioactive compounds, for packaging applications. These could work in combination with advanced materials like nano-silica, which enhances the durability and effectiveness of the packaging.

With further research and regulatory approval, antimicrobial packaging could soon becomAntimicrobial Packaging: Advancements in Meat Preservation e a mainstay in the meat industry, contributing to longer shelf life, safer products, and reduced waste. As demand for fresh, high-quality meat continues to grow, antimicrobial packaging may be the key to meeting these needs while supporting sustainable practices in food preservation.

 

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market update

Key points:

  • Restocker demand across sheep and cattle returned, with prices rising despite more yardings.
  • Quality young restocker lambs lifted above 900¢/kg in Wagga.
  • Sheep slaughter reached the highest number since 2006 due to price-driven demand.

Cattle market

The cattle market saw a slight but positive movement across all indicators as yardings eased from 4,784 head to 55,545 head.

Rainfall across south-east Queensland impacted yardings, however, may have also lifted confidence as the Restocker Yearling Heifer price lifted 13¢ to 275¢/kg liveweight (lwt). Prices and yardings were supported by the monthly weaner sales in Blackall, making up over 40% of yardings. Quality and demand through NSW yards resulted in the state’s indicator average reaching almost 30¢ above national prices at 303¢/kg lwt.

How Does the Australian Red Meat Industry Compare Globally?

Processor Cow prices have flattened out, with throughput down 774 head to 6,864 head over the week. The indicator price lifted 4¢ to 269¢/kg carcase weight (cwt). The elevated markets in Queensland and NSW prompted strength in the indicator; however, the southern states of Victoria, SA and Tasmania have seen consecutive weeks of price easing, likely due to quality being impacted by feed availability.

Sheep market

The sheep and lamb prices were varied this week. Yardings were buoyed by market confidence of the previous week, with over 345,000 sheep and lambs entering saleyards, a 6% lift on the previous week. Sheep numbers remained stable, with the main lift seen in lambs which were up 11% to 233,183, as spring lambs continue to lift. Wagga yarded significant numbers, at 70,000 head with stable prices.

Australia reaches trade deal with UAE to boost agriculture exports

There was a strong demand for restocker animals. National Restocker Indicator throughput lifted 15,823 head to 50,392 head. As traders play into the growing market, a price lift was also seen, with an increase of 31¢ to 740¢/kg cwt. Making up a fifth of the indicator, Wagga saw average prices tipping 830¢/kg cwt and some young light restockers tipping 900¢/kg.

NSW continued to fare well in the markets. Improved quality and returned demand were seen in Victoria due to more buyers present, resulting in prices lifting across all indicators, providing some recovery in prices.

Dwindling supply of heavy export lambs lifted competition in some sales. The National Heavy Lamb Indicator price fell back 15¢ to 846¢/kg cwt, though maintained a decent 36¢ premium to trade weights.

Slaughter

Week ending 25 October 2024

Cattle slaughter lifted slightly after the impressive results seen last week. National figures rose 1,531 head to a total processing of 145,337, the largest kill week since January 2020 and more in line with 2019 weekly averages. Year-to-date, cattle slaughter is tracking 14% above 2023 rates. Most states remained relatively stable week-on-week, with numbers shifting between 0–7%. Queensland maintained throughput, up 1%, once again reaching the state’s largest slaughter since late 2019 at 77,467. There were increases in NSW (34,958), and SA (3,566) and slight reductions seen across Tasmania (4,303), Victoria (22,318), and WA (2,725), with national figures remaining stable.

The Rise of Australian Beef Exports as US Cattle Numbers Decline

After a period of public holidays and scheduled maintenance closures, all reporting plants were reopened and operated for the whole week. Both sheep and lamb figures saw some movement. Combines sheep and lamb slaughter lifted 11% to 688,902 head, the largest kill week since May. Due to a plant coming back online, NSW numbers had the most considerable lift. Lamb slaughter lifted 56% in the state, while sheep slaughter was up 24% week-on-week.

Prices have motivated processors to favour mutton over lamb, causing a 14% week-on-week lift in sheep slaughter to 246,524, the largest sheep slaughter since 2006. NSW matched this record, processing just under 100,000 head for their largest week since 2006. Tasmania doubled its sheep throughput, up 102% to over 4,000 head, SA up 21% to 24,781, and both Victoria and WA up again for 70,272 and 47,741, respectively.

The proportion of sheep to total has lifted to 36%, which is well above long-term and short-term averages as processors continue to capitalise on the price differences.

Attribute to: Erin Lukey, MLA Senior Market Information Analyst

MLA

The Latest Trends in the Australian Lamb Market

Sysco Acquires Campbell’s Prime Meat in Strategic UK Expansion

Sysco, the global foodservice provider, has acquired Campbell’s Prime Meat in a strategic move to expand its footprint in the UK. This acquisition signals Sysco’s commitment to strengthening its supply chain and enhancing product offerings to UK customers, particularly within the hospitality, catering, and retail sectors[1].

Based in Linlithgow, Campbell’s Prime Meat serves a broad client base across Scotland and Northern England. The acquisition will allow Sysco to leverage Campbell’s local expertise, ensuring consistent quality and service for which Campbell’s has become renowned, while also tapping into Sysco’s extensive global network[1].

Tim Adams, CEO of Sysco UK, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Campbell’s Prime Meat to the Sysco family. This acquisition not only strengthens our supply chain but also reflects our commitment to local sourcing, quality, and customer service. Campbell’s Prime Meat has a long-standing reputation for excellence, and we’re excited to build on that foundation to better serve our customers across the UK”[1].

James Campbell, CEO of Campbell’s Prime Meat, commented on the acquisition: “Joining Sysco is a tremendous opportunity for Campbell’s Prime Meat. With Sysco’s scale and resources, we can bring our products to a larger audience and continue to support our local suppliers. This acquisition also offers a growth platform for our employees and an ability to invest further in the communities we serve”[1].

The deal marks Sysco’s continued investment in the UK foodservice sector and demonstrates its ambition to be the leading supplier of choice, with a focus on sustainable and locally sourced products. The acquisition also adds to Sysco’s growing portfolio of partnerships and acquisitions across Europe, positioning it as a prominent competitor in the UK’s foodservice industry[1].

References

 

Minerva Foods Completes Acquisition of Marfrig Assets

Minerva Foods Finalises Acquisition of Marfrig Global Foods’ Key Assets

Minerva Foods has successfully completed its acquisition of several key assets from Marfrig Global Foods, solidifying its position as a major player in the meat processing industry. This acquisition, which was first announced earlier this year, has now received final regulatory approvals and marks a significant milestone in Minerva’s expansion strategy across South America and beyond.

The acquisition includes processing plants and distribution centres in various strategic locations, thereby strengthening Minerva’s presence in core markets such as Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. Fernando Galletti de Queiroz, CEO of Minerva Foods, described the acquisition as a pivotal step in the company’s long-term strategy. He stated, “By integrating Marfrig’s assets, we can enhance our supply capabilities, streamline our operations, and better serve our clients worldwide with premium products.”

Minerva, already a leading exporter of fresh meat across South America, expects the acquisition to bolster its export capabilities to high-demand markets in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The company also highlighted that the transaction aligns with its sustainability objectives, as the additional facilities will enable Minerva to implement environmentally friendly practices at scale, potentially reducing emissions and waste through improved logistical integration.

The acquisition is anticipated to positively impact Minerva’s revenue in the coming fiscal year, as the company leverages synergies across its expanded network of assets. Industry analysts view this move as a proactive approach to meeting increased global protein demands while addressing sustainability, a growing priority within the sector.

The Minerva-Marfrig deal is one of the latest in a series of mergers and acquisitions reshaping the meat processing industry. It underscores an era of consolidation and strategic partnerships as firms seek to streamline operations and fortify market positions amid shifting consumer trends and supply chain challenges.

New Zealand’s Silver Fern Aims to Strengthen Presence in China

New Zealand’s largest red meat exporter, Silver Fern Farms, is gearing up for the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) in Shanghai, which will take place from November 5-10. This marks the company’s seventh consecutive attendance at the event. Silver Fern Farms’ Chief Executive, Dan Boulton, highlighted the importance of the expo in enhancing the company’s understanding of the China market and deepening cooperation with local partners[1].

At the CIIE, Silver Fern Farms will showcase its premium red meat products, including upgraded reserve products that cater to both Western cooking styles and Chinese culinary habits. Boulton emphasized the diversity and richness of China’s traditional recipes and culinary techniques, which span thousands of years[1].

Silver Fern Farms has been present in China for nearly 30 years, with the Chinese market being a key growth engine for the company. This year, the company has expanded its retail channels to cover China’s central and western regions, supplying high-end grass-fed beef and lamb products to local supermarket stores[1].

[1]: Silver Fern Farms at China International Import Expo 2024

References

Xinhua

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