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14 Jan 2025

AIMS Urges Government to Embrace AI in Meat Inspection

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has welcomed the UK government’s AI initiative, calling for the increased use of artificial intelligence within meat inspection processes. In a statement, Executive Director Dr Jason Aldiss BEM highlighted the potentia...

13 Jan 2025

South Korea Bans German Pork Imports After FMD Outbreak

Seoul, South Korea – The South Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs has imposed an import ban on German pork following the confirmation of an outbreak of highly contagious foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) in the European nation. This move comes after Germany re...

11 Jan 2025

Germany reports FMD outbreak

The National Reference Laboratory for Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) of the Friedrich-Loeffler-Institut (FLI) has confirmed an infection with the FMD virus in a water buffalo in Märkisch-Oderland, Brandenburg. The local authorities have taken control and protection measures. ...

11 Jan 2025

34 Redundancies as Price & Fretwell Shuts Down

Tibshelf, Derbyshire: A well-established family-run butcher has been forced to close its doors after 30 years in business, resulting in the redundancy of all 34 employees. Price and Fretwell, an award-winning supplier of meat to restaurants, hotels, and educational institution...

09 Jan 2025

Red Meat Warning as Scottish Beef Supplies Dwindle

Supermarket shelves across Scotland could see shortages of red meat as beef supplies near a “critical point”. The Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers (SAMW) has warned that beef supplies are dwindling as cattle levels continue to fall. The number of cattle used for be...

09 Jan 2025

NFU Calls for Support for Local Abattoirs Amid Latest Closure

The NFU is calling on the government to recognise the key role of small and medium-sized abattoirs in the supply chain following news of the latest closure. The last remaining abattoir in Hampshire is set to cease trading at the end of January. The closure of Newman’s Abatto...

03 Jan 2025

Mercosur Meat Surge Sparks Controversy in China

Chinese farmers and meat industry associations are complaining about the surge in foreign beef imports and the Ministry of Commerce has promised an investigation into the situation, according to Beijing government sources. However the investigation is likely to take some eight...

03 Jan 2025

AIMS Unveils New Logo and Website as Membership Grows

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has launched a revamped website and a modernised logo, signalling its continued growth and evolving role as a leading advocate for the meat and poultry industry. The announcement comes as AIMS celebrates a significant rise i...

02 Jan 2025

Updated Guidance on Meat from Bird Flu Control Zones

Guidance Bird flu: rules on meat produced from poultry and farmed game birds originating in disease control zones Available Here Rules food businesses should follow for any meat produced from poultry or farmed game birds originating within a disease control zone. Gov.uk

24 Dec 2024

Smithfield Traders Back New Market Plan

The City of London and Smithfield traders have agreed on a plan to move the market to a new location “within the M25” when the site closes. The agreement comes after concerns that the historic Smithfield meat market and Billingsgate fish market would shut after the...

23 Dec 2024

Bird Flu: Rules for Meat from Infected Zones

Bird flu: rules on meat produced from poultry and farmed game birds originating in disease control zones Rules food businesses should follow for any meat produced from poultry or farmed game birds originating within a disease control zone. Rules on meat produced from poultry a...

17 Dec 2024

AIMS Criticises FSA Chair’s Stance on Meat Inspection Charges

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has strongly opposed recent comments made by Professor Susan Jebb, Chair of the Food Standards Agency (FSA), regarding the UK’s meat inspection charging system. AIMS argues that Professor Jebb’s characterisation of t...

17 Dec 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices Update: Upward Trend Continues

Prices Deadweight pig prices in Ireland are on an upward trajectory in response to relatively tight supplies for slaughter. Prices have increased steadily week on week from a low of 190c/kg in mid February 2024. The average price paid for grade E pig prices in Ireland for the ...

17 Dec 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices Update

Quotes Base quotes from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €8.20/kg – €8.50/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 ma...

17 Dec 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update

Throughput There were 39,614 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, a slight increase of 45head from the previous week. Prime cattle throughput YTD is currently on par with the same period last year at 1,245,998 head although a notable tightening in prime cattle a...

13 Dec 2024

A year in review: the Australian cattle market

Key points: Stability has returned to the cattle market, reflecting the balancing act between supply and demand. Market confidence has continued to trend upward despite the weather conditions in Victoria and SA. Slaughter has been very consistent and remains the highlight of t...

13 Dec 2024

Another Arrest in Food Crime Probe

NFCU officers, together with Dyfed-Powys Police, attended a farm in Wales on Wednesday 4 December 2024 and arrested one man. The arrest is linked to five earlier arrests made in London, in connection with seizures of suspected illegal meat on Monday 25 November 2024. The...

12 Dec 2024

A year in review: the Australian sheep and lamb market

Key points: Following the volatile market last year, producers acted cautiously in 2024. Differing conditions across the country promoted trade and competition. Record production was driven by strong export demand. 2024 has been a year of recovery, nervousness and record produ...

11 Dec 2024

Pickstock Expands to Scotland

A multi-million pound expansion by an English meat processing firm into Scotland has been approved. Shropshire-based Pickstock has been granted planning permission to build an abattoir close to the A74(M) near Ecclefechan in Dumfries and Galloway. The company said the scheme w...

09 Dec 2024

Two UK Sites Re-Listed for Chinese Pork Exports

UK pork exports to China have received a boost with the re-listing of two sites after a huge collaborative effort between many stakeholders, including government departments, industry and AHDB. The re-listing followed a relentless effort over several years which included frequ...

06 Dec 2024

Brazil’s Meat Production Hits Record High

Brazil’s meat industry reached new heights in the third quarter of 2024. The Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) reported unprecedented numbers in beef, pork, and poultry production. This surge reflects Brazil’s growing dominance in the global meat mar...

06 Dec 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update: Throughput and Trends

Throughput There were 39,812 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, an increase of just over 1,000 head from the previous week. This uplift is primarily due to an increase in the young bull kill when compared to the previous week. Prime cattle throughput YTD is cu...

06 Dec 2024

Strong Demand Drives Irish Sheep Prices Higher

Quotes Base quotes from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €7.90/kg – €8.00/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 ma...

06 Dec 2024

EU-Mercosur Trade Deal Nears

BRUSSELS, Dec 6 (Reuters) – The European Union and South America’s Mercosur bloc are expected on Friday to finalise a free trade agreement but it faces a tortuous battle for approval in Europe given firm French opposition. After negotiations spanning more than 20 y...

05 Dec 2024

Five Arrested in Food Crime Probe

NFCU officers, together with police, attended a location in London on Monday 25 November 2024 where they discovered unrefrigerated vans containing 48 sheep carcasses. The meat is thought to be illegal, having undergone a smoking process with its skin on, and is not traceabl...

04 Dec 2024

Icelandic Lamb Gains Protected Status

Reykjavík, Iceland – 4 December 2024 – Icelandic Lamb has officially been granted the prestigious Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status by the European Union, marking a significant achievement for Iceland’s agricultural sector. This certification recognises the u...

03 Dec 2024

Pigs in Blankets: A Christmas Classic

Pigs in Blankets are an undeniable Christmas classic! These delightful, bite-sized treats bring warmth and nostalgia to festive gatherings, whether served as part of the Christmas dinner or as nibbles at a holiday party. Here’s why they’re a must-have: What ...

03 Dec 2024

Paraguay’s Beef Exports to Hit Record High

In the first eleven months of the year, Paraguay has exported some 320,000 tons of beef with revenue reaching 1,6 billion dollars, indicates data from the National Animal Health and Quality Service (Senacsa). This figure and revenue will show that 2024 will be the highest on r...

03 Dec 2024

China Buys More Argentine Beef

China figures as the main market for Argentine beef, having absorbed in nine months to October 78% of exports, based on data from the ABC Consortium, which represents the country’s largest beef exporters. Argentina’s exports of beef totaled 641,900 tons in the first ten mo...

29 Nov 2024

Australian Livestock Market Update

Key points: With a good selection of cattle available, the market has remained stable. The heavy lambs and sheep price gap continues to widen. For the second consecutive week, the largest combined sheep and lamb slaughter on record was achieved. Cattle market The cattle market...

27 Nov 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices: An Upward Trend in Deadweight Prices

27 Nov 2024

Irish Beef Prices Soar

Beef prices at the factories have reached an all-time record this week with processors hungry to get extra stock to fill their orders for Christmas. An extra 5-10 cents/kg has been added to the factory quotes for both steers and heifers this week as competition between the mea...

27 Nov 2024

Brazil Resumes Meat Exports to French Stores

French supermarket giant Carrefour apologized so that Brazilian meatpackers would end their boycott of the group and resume deliveries to stores nationwide, Agencia Brasil reported Tuesday. The measure had been adopted after the company’s CEO Alexandre Bompard said last ...

26 Nov 2024

Halal Lamb Claims Third of UK Market Share

Halal meat now accounts for 30% of lamb sales in the UK, according to new research from the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB). The findings shed light on how the consumption habits of halal meat consumers have evolved since the Covid pandemic and the cost-o...

25 Nov 2024

Chesterfield Poultry Pioneers New Inspection Standards with In-House Team

Chesterfield Poultry, based in Thorne, South Yorkshire, has taken a major step forward in its operations by transitioning from relying on Food Standards Agency (FSA) meat inspectors to creating its own team of Plant Inspection Assistants (PIAs). This move marks a significant m...

23 Nov 2024

Brazil Halts Meat Supply to Carrefour

A significant shift in the Brazilian meat industry has emerged as major companies begin to suspend their supply to Carrefour and its subsidiaries in Brazil. This move comes as a direct response to the French retailer’s recent announcement of a boycott on Mercosur meat produc...

22 Nov 2024

JBS Commits $2.5 Billion to Build Six Factories in Nigeria

SAO PAULO, Nov 21 (Reuters) – Brazilian meatpacker JBS said on Thursday it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Nigeria’s government for a $2.5 billion investment plan in the African country, including the building of six new factories. In a statement, JBS...

22 Nov 2024

Brazil and China Edge Closer to Pork Offal Export Deal

SAO PAULO, Nov 21 (Reuters) – Brazil is close to finalizing protocols for exporting pork offal and fish to China, two people familiar with the matter told Reuters on Thursday, in the wake of a historic visit by Chinese President Xi Jinping to the South American nation....

22 Nov 2024

Carrefour Boycotts Mercosur Meat Over Trade Deal

Carrefour CEO Alexandre Bompard announced this week that his company would not be selling meat imported from the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) in a move to prevent the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the European Union from pulling through. France’s largest supermark...

21 Nov 2024

UK Cattle and Sheep Market Update: 21st November

Summary of Prices for Week Ending 16 November Cattle The GB overall all-prime deadweight cattle price rose to 522.1p/kg, amid reduced kill numbers. Steers at R4L averaged 536p/kg (+5.7p), while R4L heifers reached 534p/kg (+6.2p). Young bulls saw the largest increase, up 7.1p ...

19 Nov 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update: Latest Figures and Trends

Throughput There were 38,791 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, a reduction of just over 1,500 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...

14 Nov 2024

Lamb prices soar on tight supply

Festive demand has taken off for the lamb sector, with processors appearing keen to stock up ahead of Christmas. Some abattoirs have been quoted at up to 650p/kg in the past week while the overall GB average deadweight SQQ lifted by 11p/kg on the week to 625.2p/kg. Trade at bo...

10 Nov 2024

Record Year for Australian Meat Exports

Australian beef exports in October reached 130,049 tonnes, breaking the record for the most beef exported in a single month for the second time this year. Goatmeat exports also reached record-breaking numbers, with lamb and mutton recording very high export numbers. Australian...

10 Nov 2024

Smithfield Market Move Paused

The City of London’s current plan to move Smithfield and Billingsgate markets to a new purpose-built site in Dagenham has been halted. The City of London Corporation, which owns and manages both markets, has not cancelled the move altogether but has stopped its initial plan...

08 Nov 2024

Russian Firm Boosts Meat Exports

MOSCOW. Nov 7 (Interfax) – Damate Group, Russia’s leading turkey meat producer, exported 8,300 tonnes of turkey and duck meat in 9M 2024, double the amount exported in the same period last year, the company said. Turkey meat exports stood at 8,000 tonnes, of which ...

06 Nov 2024

NZ to Boost China Exports

The New Zealand Government has signed off on a deal to co-invest $8 million to beef up New Zealand’s meat exports to China. New Zealand is currently the second largest source of international lamb for Chinese consumers behind Australia, and the sixth largest supplier of bee...

06 Nov 2024

Pickstock’s New Meat Plant Avoids Environmental Assessment

An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been ruled unnecessary for a multi-million pound expansion by an English meat processing firm into Scotland. Shropshire-based Pickstock wants to build an abattoir close to the A74(M) near Ecclefechan in Dumfries and Galloway. The co...

03 Nov 2024

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 ma...

03 Nov 2024

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 cu...

03 Nov 2024

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, helpin...

01 Nov 2024

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 mar...

31 Oct 2024

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. The acquisition signals Sysco’s commitment to strengthening its supply chain and enhancing product offerings to UK customers, particularly ...

31 Oct 2024

Minerva Foods Completes Acquisition of Marfrig Assets

Minerva Foods has finalised its acquisition of several key assets from Marfrig Global Foods, consolidating its presence as a major player in the industry. The acquisition, first announced earlier this year, received final regulatory approvals and marks a milestone in Minerva�...

28 Oct 2024

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

WELLINGTON, Oct. 28 (Xinhua) — New Zealand’s largest red meat exporter Silver Fern Farms expects to leverage the spill-over effect of the upcoming China International Import Expo (CIIE) to enhance its understanding of the China market, said Silver Fern Farms Limite...

28 Oct 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update: Throughput and Trends

Throughput There were 40,777 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, an uplift of just over 430 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 o...

28 Oct 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices: Uplift in Base Quotes

Quotes Base quotes from the major processors have improved this week with €7.30/kg – €7.40 for well finished lambs (+QA bonus) on offer, with tightening lamb numbers contributing to this uplift. The improvements in the trade are also being supported by stable deman...

27 Oct 2024

Rising Crisis: Government Urged to Address Illegal Meat Imports

The government is under pressure to stop illegal meat being smuggled into the UK, amid warnings of a “foot-and-mouth” level crisis for British farmers. The amount of meat seized by Border Force officials has doubled in a year, according to data obtained by BBC News...

26 Oct 2024

Amazon Deforestation: Brazil’s Actions Against Meat Packers

São Paulo, Brazil – In a significant environmental enforcement move, Brazilian authorities have imposed multimillion-pound fines on several of the country’s largest meat-packing companies for purchasing cattle from farms linked to illegal Amazon deforestation. This ac...

24 Oct 2024

FSA Appoints Two Businesses for Meat Inspections in the UK

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced the appointment of two businesses to provide inspectors and veterinary professionals for future meat inspections in the UK. The two companies, Eville & Jones and HallMark Veterinary & Compliance Services, have been awarde...

24 Oct 2024

The Latest Trends in the Australian Lamb Market

Key points: Lamb prices have bounced back to late 2021 and early 2022 levels. Producer cautiousness will likely impact market prices. Seasonal conditions have impacted quality and timing of new season lambs being sold. The spring flush is in full swing, with more new-season la...

17 Oct 2024

The History of Spam: From Wartime Rations to Global Delicacy

The History of Spam: From Wartime Staple to Global Culinary Icon Spam, the iconic canned meat, has had an unexpected journey from wartime necessity to beloved food staple across the world. While some see it as a quirky throwback, Spam’s rich history reveals a versatile p...

17 Oct 2024

The Rise of Australian Beef Exports as US Cattle Numbers Decline

COOMA, Australia, Oct 17 (Reuters) – In a refrigerated room, around two dozen staff in hats, gloves and blue plastic aprons carve and pack carcasses into boxes within minutes of their slaughter. The Monbeef slaughterhouse, owned by Bindaree Food Group and located about 1...

17 Oct 2024

UK Sausage Week 2024: A Showcase of Sausage Craftsmanship

The countdown begins for UK Sausage Week 2024. Running from Monday, 28th October to Sunday, 3rd November 2024, the week will see butchers, wholesalers, caterers, and food lovers across the country come together to celebrate one of the nation’s favourite foods: the sausag...

16 Oct 2024

Scotland’s Red Meat and Offal Exports Surge to £137m, QMS Survey Reveals

Scotland’s red meat and offal exports beyond the UK have experienced a significant rise, reaching a value of £137 million, according to the latest survey by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS). The report highlights a remarkable recovery in the sector, with a 26% increase in ex...

14 Oct 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices: Demand Outpacing Supplies

14 Oct 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices Update: Improvements in Lamb Quotes

Quotes Base quotes for lambs from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €7.00-7.05/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Relatively tight lamb supplies combined with some stability in demand from the domestic and export markets have contributed to this firming of t...

14 Oct 2024

Latest Update on Irish Cattle Trade and Prices

Throughput There were 40.956 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants last week, an uplift of just over 1,000 head from the previous week. This uplift is primarily due to an increase in the heifer kill of almost 800 head when compared to the previous week. Prime cattle through...

11 Oct 2024

The Rise of Raw Pet Food: What’s Behind the Trend?

In recent years, the pet food industry has seen a significant shift towards raw feeding, with more and more pet owners swapping traditional kibble for fresh, raw ingredients. Known as the “raw food diet,” this approach mimics what animals would eat in the wild, off...

11 Oct 2024

Danish Crown Implements Job Cuts to Save Costs

COPENHAGEN, 11 October (Reuters) – Danish Crown, a major meat producer and exporter, announced on Friday plans to cut around 500 white-collar jobs as part of a significant reorganisation aimed at saving approximately 500 million crowns (£59 million) in annual costs. “...

11 Oct 2024

AIMS Challenges FSA Claims on Veterinary Presence in Meat Establishments

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has hit back at recent claims by Food Standards Agency (FSA) Chair, Susan Jebb, regarding the necessity of constant veterinary oversight in meat establishments. AIMS contends that the FSA’s stance undermines the legal ...

11 Oct 2024

Strong Demand Supports Firm Cattle and Sheep Prices: AHDB

The latest market update from the AHDB has revealed that cattle and sheep prices are holding steady as strong demand continues to support the market. In its report for the week ending 10 October 2024, AHDB highlighted key trends in the livestock sector, with both cattle and sh...

10 Oct 2024

UK Government’s Brexit Border Plans Hit Another Roadblock

The UK Government has revealed two more delays in its post-Brexit border control plans, further extending the timeline for the full introduction of checks on goods arriving from the European Union. This marks the latest in a series of postponements since the UK’s departu...

10 Oct 2024

AIMS Welcomes Reopening of Poultry Export Market to South Korea

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has welcomed the recent reopening of the export market for poultry to South Korea, following the UK’s earlier success in securing poultry export access to South Africa for the first time in eight years. Tony Goodger, s...

07 Oct 2024

Latest Update on Irish Cattle Trade and Prices

Throughput There were 39,854 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the w/e 28th September 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,302,187 head. This is a <1% decrease on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 1,304,095 cattle were processed. Th...

03 Oct 2024

China opens up to 4 Argentine meat plants

A total of four new Argentine meat plants were allowed by China to send beef shipments to the Asian country, it was announced this week by Buenos Aires’ Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Secretariat. According to Argentina’s National Agri-Food Health and Quality...

02 Oct 2024

Why Pork Deserves a Prime Spot on Your Table

When it comes to versatile and flavour-packed meats, pork often flies under the radar. While beef, chicken, and lamb tend to get all the glory, pork has been a culinary staple for centuries—and for good reason. Whether you’re a fan of rich, slow-cooked belly, juicy por...

02 Oct 2024

Tired of Turkey? Delicious Main Course Ideas for Christmas

For many, the centrepiece of Christmas dinner is the iconic roasted turkey. Yet, not everyone is a fan, and for those looking to switch things up or cater to different tastes, there are plenty of equally festive and mouth-watering alternatives. Whether you’re planning a more...

27 Sep 2024

UK Cattle & Sheep Trade Update: Fluctuations in Cow Prices

Cattle The average GB deadweight prime cattle price once again saw another jump for the week ending 21 September of just over 2p/kg to sit at 504.1p/kg. This now sits 27p higher than the same week in 2023, and over £1 higher than the five-year average. Breaking this down in...

27 Sep 2024

How Does the Australian Red Meat Industry Compare Globally?

Earlier this week, MLA released the 2024 State of the Industry Report, a catch-all document on the economic importance of the Australian red meat sector and how we stack up against our global counterparts. The report uses calendar and financial year data from 2023 to cover in...

27 Sep 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report update

Cattle market The cattle market generally eased this week, with the exception of the Dairy Cow Indicator. The easing in prices has been motivated by a slight decline in quality. Overall cattle yardings lifted by 5,064 head or 8% to 66,907 head, and Queensland experienced the s...

27 Sep 2024

AIMS Raises Concerns Over FSA’s Meat Charge Increase Plans

The Head of External Affairs for AIMS (Association of Independent Meat Suppliers), Dr Jason Aldiss, has expressed growing concerns over the Food Standards Agency’s (FSA) plans to raise charge rates for the meat industry. “Inflationary pressures are affecting all sectors, y...

26 Sep 2024

Paraguay Plans to Boost Exports to the UK

Mercosur partner Paraguay, with a most unfavourable trade balance with UK is planning an ambitious project to enable the country in a few years reach an export bill of some US$ 900 million annually. The ambitious forecast was revealed in the report «Opportunities UK – Parag...

26 Sep 2024

GB Pig Prices Update: Drop in EU-spec SPP

Weekly pig prices and slaughter data for Great Britain. The EU-spec SPP dropped back again during the week ended September 21, losing 0.29p to 208.97p/kg. It has now lost 1.21p over the past four weeks to dip below 209p/kg for the first time since February 2023, and stands 1...

26 Sep 2024

New Zealand’s Red Meat Sector Welcomes New Trade Agreement with the UAE

New Zealand’s red meat sector has warmly welcomed the announcement of a new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), viewing it as a significant opportunity to expand market access and strengthen economic ties with the Gulf region. The UAE is a key trading part...

26 Sep 2024

Global Poultry Markets Remain Bullish Amid Rising Demand

Global poultry markets are poised for continued growth, with strong demand driving bullish forecasts, according to the latest quarterly report from Rabobank, which points to rising global consumption and constrained supply as key factors bolstering market optimism. The report ...

26 Sep 2024

Minerva’s Acquisition of Marfrig Plants Receives Regulatory Approval

São Paulo, September 2024 – Minerva Foods, one of South America’s largest meat processors, has successfully received regulatory approval for its highly anticipated acquisition of several key processing plants from Marfrig Global Foods. The deal, valued at approximatel...

25 Sep 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices Update

Throughput There were 33,058 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the w/e 24 August, 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,134,248 head. This is on par with the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 1,132,248 cattle were processed. There have been...

25 Sep 2024

New Isle of Man Meats Chairman: Tackling Abattoir Challenges

The newly appointed chairman of the Isle of Man’s abattoir Meat Plant has said his priority in the role was to get to understand the challenges facing the facility. Damien Corcoran is one of five new directors appointed to the board of the Meat Plant, which receives abou...

24 Sep 2024

Neil Powell Butchers crowned Britain’s Best Butcher’s Shop

Abergavenny’s Neil Powell Butchers has won the prestigious title of Britain’s Best Butcher’s Shop at the 2024 Meat Management Industry Awards. This award is a proud moment for the entire Powell family, whose roots in traditional butchery roots span decades across Herefor...

24 Sep 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices Update: Upward Trend Continues

24 Sep 2024

AIMS Appoints New Executive Director

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) is proud to announce the appointment of Dr Jason Aldiss BEM BVSc MRCVS as its new Executive Director, effective from January 2025. Jason was selected after a rigorous selection process, emerging as the ideal candidate f...

23 Sep 2024

Halal meat brand announces plans for new drive-thru stores

A halal butcher has unveiled plans for the launch their new drive-thru stores in the UK and Dubai. Tariq Halal Meat said the launch of the new concept drive-thru stores aims to service the ‘modern consumer’s need for quick, hassle-free access’. Kunal Patel, CEO of ...

21 Sep 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report update

Cattle market This week, cattle yarded through saleyards eased 21% to 53,161 head, though year-to-date throughput remains 29% above 2023 levels. The cattle market was mixed this week. Restockers experienced some recovery, with the National Young Cattle Indicator lifting 7¢ to...

21 Sep 2024

Australia: Lamb Prices Soaring 79-158% Above Last Year

The national lamb market today is very different to what it was 12 months ago. Drying conditions and concerns of an emerging El Niño event have impacted market confidence, lifting turn-off through saleyards. Last year, the flock had been rebuilding for three years and was o...

18 Sep 2024

AIMS Calls for Change to Make Food Safer, Cut Costs, and Stop Food Crime

The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) is calling for big changes to how we check the safety and quality of food in the UK. Right now, the systems in place have allowed some high-profile failures, putting both businesses and consumers at risk. But there’s good ...

17 Sep 2024

Australia reaches trade deal with UAE to boost agriculture exports

SYDNEY, Sept 17 (Reuters) – Australia said on Tuesday it had reached a trade deal with the United Arab Emirates that would remove tariffs for about 99% of Australian products, and resulting in savings of A$135 million ($91 million) in the first year. The UAE is Australia...

17 Sep 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices Update: Tight Supplies Drive Upward Trend

Prices: Deadweight pig prices in Ireland are on an upward trajectory in response to relatively tight supplies for slaughter. Prices have increased steadily week on week from a low of 190c/kg in mid February 2024. The average price paid for grade E pig prices in Ireland for th...

17 Sep 2024

Quality Meat Scotland launches marketing campaign

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has proudly launched its new marketing campaign, ‘When You Know, You Know’ developed with Edinburgh-based creative agency, Multiply. It highlights to consumers that there is simply no match for the livestock born and reared in Scotland under the...

16 Sep 2024

Fray Bentos: The History and Rise of an Iconic Brand

The Story of Fray Bentos: From Beef Boom to Iconic Brand Fray Bentos is a brand that has become synonymous with hearty pies and canned meats, but its story is rich in history, innovation, and international connections. Originating in South America, it has evolved into a househ...

15 Sep 2024

Why Venison Deserves a Spot on Your Table

Why Venison Deserves a Spot on Your Table: A Delicious and Sustainable Choice When it comes to choosing meats for your next meal, venison might not be the first option that comes to mind. However, it’s a meat that is becoming increasingly popular, and for good reason. One of...

13 Sep 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report w/e 6th Sept 2024

Cattle market The cattle market has been generally positive, with the exception of the Feeder Steer Indicator. Yardings eased by 818 to 61,603 head and year-to-date yardings are up by 27%. The Feeder Steer Indicator eased by 7¢ to 364¢/kg liveweight (lwt), yardings eased sli...

12 Sep 2024

Brazil asks EU to hold off on implementing deforestation law

BRASILIA, Sept 11 (Reuters) – Brazil on Wednesday asked the European Union not to implement regulations in its deforestation law at the end of the year as scheduled and asked for it to be revised to avoid hurting Brazilian exports. In a letter to the European Commission ...

09 Sep 2024

Why Lamb Deserves a Spot on Your Table

When it comes to culinary delights, lamb stands out as a uniquely versatile and delicious option among meats. Whether you’re hosting a lavish dinner party or enjoying a family meal, incorporating lamb into your menu not only elevates the dining experience but also of...

07 Sep 2024

Tönnies to buy Vion’s German Beef Operations

Vion Food Group has successfully brokered a commercial agreement with Tönnies Group for the acquisition of the majority of Vion’s German beef operations. This proposed transaction is a direct outcome of the German portfolio review initiated in January 2024 and signifies a s...

06 Sep 2024

UK Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e August 31st 2024

Cattle Finished prime cattle prices ticked up again across most regions in the week ending 31 August. This week included the Bank Holiday Monday, as prime cattle numbers saw a dip of an estimated 2,600 on the week before to 29,500 head. However, estimated slaughter remained e...

06 Sep 2024

Irish Pig Trade & Prices w/e August 24th 2024

Prices Deadweight pig prices in Ireland are holding relatively stable after increasing strongly from a low of 190c/kg in mid-February until early August. The average price paid for grade E pig prices in Ireland for the w/e 24 August 2024 was 231c/kg excluding Vat. The curren...

06 Sep 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e August 24th 2024

06 Sep 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report w/e 30th August 2024

Cattle The cattle market, although generally mixed, was still supported by a strong foundation this week. Yardings eased by 5,897 to 48,642 head, with year-to-date yardings 7% above current levels. The Heavy Steer Indicator eased by 2¢ to 345¢/kg liveweight (lwt), and prices...

06 Sep 2024

Isle of Man bans some EU imports to prevent ‘goat plague’

Importing certain sheep and goat products from the European Union to the Isle of Man has been banned to prevent the highly contagious infection known as “goat plague”. The strict controls, which include postal imports of meat, cheese and milk, are to protect Manx a...

02 Sep 2024

Smaller Abattoir Fund Grant Scheme: Deadline Approaching

Smaller Abattoir Fund Grant Scheme Closes Monday 30th September The Scheme The SAF grant scheme closes soon and we understand that many eligible abattoirs have yet to make an application. The scheme represents an excellent opportunity and can fund many types of capital invest...

30 Aug 2024

Irish Pig Trade: Steady Increase in Deadweight Prices

30 Aug 2024

Police Warn of Unsafe Meat After Sheep Theft in Worcestershire

People in Worcestershire are being warned not to eat meat bought from suspicious sources as it could be unsafe. Three sheep stolen in Chaddesley Corbett may have been illegally slaughtered, according to West Mercia Police. The force added that the animals were on medication wh...

30 Aug 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report w/e 23rd August 2024

Cattle market The cattle market was mixed this week, with increases in the Heavy Steer and Processor Cow indicators. Yardings eased for most indicators except for the Feeder Steer and Restocker Yearling Steer, which lifted by 3,046 to 53,855 head. The Feeder Steer Indicator ea...

29 Aug 2024

UK to join CPTPP by 15 December

The UK has secured the sixth and final ratification required to trigger our accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) before the end of this year. CPTPP is a free trade area spanning five continents and almost 600 million pe...

28 Aug 2024

From Soho to Everywhere: The Rise of the Kebab Shop in the UK

The Rich History of the Kebab Shop Nestled in the bustling streets of London, the first Turkish Restaurant in the UK began trading in 1940s Soho as The Istanbul. The kebab shop has become a cornerstone of culinary heritage and others like it only flourished in the 1970s. Found...

28 Aug 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e August 17th 2024

Throughput There were 32,065 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the w/e 17 August, 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,101,190 head. This is a -3,416 head or 0.5% decrease on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 1,097,774 cattle were proc...

28 Aug 2024

QMS ‘Meat the Market’ Workshops for Farmers

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) is delighted to announce a series of “Meat the Market” workshops designed to provide farmers with essential knowledge on carcass grading, market specifications, and customer requirements. These workshops will take place at leading proces...

27 Aug 2024

Ireland: Undercurrent of weakening trade threatens lamb prices

While overall, there is little change to the trade for the lambs at the factories for this week, there is an undercurrent of a weakening in the trade being threatened. The processors are quoting 700-710c/kg for the lambs plus the usual 10-20c/kg for quality assurance. The supp...

27 Aug 2024

Smithfield Foods Announces Separation of European Operations

Aug 27 (Reuters) – Smithfield Foods, the world’s largest pork processor, on Tuesday announced the separation of its European operations as the Virginia-based firm plans to list in the United States. WH Group, Smithfield’s China-based parent group, was working...

27 Aug 2024

Restrictions after bluetongue virus detected in sheep

A sheep in Norfolk has become the first animal to test positive for the bluetongue virus since March. The Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) said a case was confirmed on a farm close to Haddiscoe, external, near Beccles. A 20km (12.4 mile) temporary...

26 Aug 2024

Makro planning Argentine exodus?

Makro, a leading wholesale supermarket chain where anyone can shop at more convenient prices, has announced its decision to leave crisis-ridden Argentina after some 30 years in the South American country where sales keep plunging despite President Javier Milei’s administ...

25 Aug 2024

Uruguay seeks to reduce its reliance on China for beef exports

Uruguay is committed to lessen its dependence on the Chinese market for its sales of meat and beef in particular. In recent years China, as with most other Latin American countries has become its main trade partner, absorbing non processed agricultural commodities and minerals...

25 Aug 2024

Wagyu beef’s wholesale price falls to 4-year low as consumption slows

TOKYO — Wholesale prices of wagyu beef in Japan have fallen to the lowest level since June 2020 when demand for meat from the Japanese cattle breeds slumped amid the COVID-19 pandemic. With prices showing no signs of a rebound, farmers — already tormented by risin...

24 Aug 2024

Agricultural Exports from Russia See 10%-11% YoY Growth in 2024

KAZAN. Aug 23 (Interfax) – Russian agricultural exports are 10%-11% higher year-on-year in 2024 in terms of tonnage, Agriculture Minister Oksana Luth told journalists in Kazan. However, there is a lag in terms of value compared to last year’s figures owing to a dec...

23 Aug 2024

Australian Cattle and Sheep Market Report w/e 16th August 2024

Cattle market The cattle market was generally positive this week despite a 14¢ decline in heavy steer prices. Yardings eased once again, totalling 48,488 head. The National Young Cattle Indicator lifted 14¢ to 357¢/kg liveweight (lwt). This is the second-highest price this ...

23 Aug 2024

Russia’s Pork Production to Reach 7.1 Million Tonnes by 2030

UFA. Aug 22 (Interfax) – The National Union of Pork Producers forecasts that Russia will increase annual pork production to 7.1 million tonnes in live weight by 2030, Bashkir Meat Company LLC said. “By 2030 pork production in the country will increase to 7.1 millio...

22 Aug 2024

Isle of Man Meat Plant Management Faces No Confidence Vote

A farmer’s union has declared a vote of no confidence in the management of the Isle of Man’s government-subsidised Meat Plant. The Manx National Farmers’ Union (MNFU) issued an open letter calling for action to be taken. The letter said an increase in cancell...

21 Aug 2024

Australian farmers increasingly concerned about government policy

CANBERRA, Aug 21 (Reuters) – A rising number of Australian farmers are disgruntled with the government’s climate and agricultural policies, a survey showed on Wednesday, as measures to protect the environment draw farmers’ ire in Europe and some other place...

20 Aug 2024

France to start second bird flu vaccination campaign in October

PARIS, Aug 20 (Reuters) – France will launch a second vaccination campaign against avian influenza among farm ducks in October after a successful inaugural programme last year, Agriculture Minister Marc Fesneau said on Tuesday. The disease, commonly called bird flu, wa...

20 Aug 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e August 10th 2024

Quotes Base quotes for spring lambs from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €7.00-7.05/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Relatively tight lamb supplies combined with some stability in demand from the domestic and export markets have contributed to this firming...

20 Aug 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e August 10th 2024

Throughput There were 30,699 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending 10 August 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,069,125 head. This is a +6,100 head or 0.5% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 1,063,024 cattle we...

20 Aug 2024

Russian pork producers target EU’s share of China’s pork market

MOSCOW, Aug 19 (Reuters) – Russian pork producers are aiming to capture 10% of China’s pork import market in the coming years from a standing start, seeking to take advantage of trade tensions between the European Union and China, the world’s biggest pork con...

16 Aug 2024

Australian cattle and sheep market wrap w/e 9th August 2024

Cattle market The cattle market has been generally positive with a 12% lift in the heavy steer price, while yardings eased by 24,406 to 50,244 head (a 30% reduction). The Processor Cow Indicator rose by 20¢ to 290¢/kg liveweight (lwt) while the Dairy Cow Indicator eased by 4...

16 Aug 2024

New Zealand sheep production set to fall

Key points: New Zealand sheep and lamb slaughter rose over 2023–24 to 22.2 million head. In June 2024, slaughter fell 16% when compared to 2023 numbers. Improved conditions on the North Island are likely to assist flock rebuilding. The New Zealand sheep flock has been fallin...

16 Aug 2024

Minerva and Marfrig’s Asset Deal Conditionally Approved in Brazil

Minerva’s asset deal with Marfrig has been granted conditional approval by Brazil’s Administrative Council for Economic Defense (CADE). Minerva Foods and Marfrig Global Foods are two of the largest meat processors in Brazil. Minerva is focused on beef production an...

14 Aug 2024

Meat Processing and Technology: A Modern-Day Investigation

In today’s fast-paced world, technology is playing an increasingly important role in all industries, including meat processing. With advancements in robotics and automation, the meat processing industry is undergoing a transformation like never before. This investigation...

13 Aug 2024

Argentina and China: Strengthening Ties through Beef Trade

Argentina’s economic relationship with China has become increasingly important, with growing trade highlighted by increasing Argentine beef exports, points out the English language China Daily. Something which to a certain point is surprising, given the electoral campaign sp...

12 Aug 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e August 3rd 2024

Throughput There were 32,858 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending August 3rd 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,038,426 head. This is a +8,731 head or 2% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 1,029,695 cattle wer...

12 Aug 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e August 3rd 2024

Quotes Base quotes for spring lambs from the major processors have improved again this week with €7.00- €7.20/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Relatively tight lamb supplies combined with some stability in demand from the domestic and export markets have contributed to this firm...

11 Aug 2024

The Ultimate Guide to King Crab Season

King crab season is a much-anticipated time of year for seafood enthusiasts and those in the meat trade alike. This exquisite crustacean, often considered the crown jewel of the sea, has captivated the palates of many with its delicate flavour and tender, succulent meat. If yo...

09 Aug 2024

Argentina Lowers Levy On Beef Exports

The Argentine government is lowering beef export tax 25%, from 9% to 6,75% basically “to promote sales to foreign markets and improve the level of income of producers and processors, favoring the insertion of Argentina in international markets”, points out the decree publi...

05 Aug 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e July 27th 2024

Quotes Base quotes for spring lambs from the major processors have improved slightly this week with €6.90-€6.95/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Relatively tight lamb supplies combined with some stability in demand from the domestic and export markets have contributed to this fi...

05 Aug 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e July 27th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput There were 32,858 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending July 27th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 1,005,993 head. This is a +10,143 head or 2% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 99...

05 Aug 2024

New Zealand’s Shift: Scrapping Green Policies for Economic Boost

WELLINGTON, Aug 5 (Reuters) – New Zealand’s green credentials are at risk as the government rolls back environmental reforms in a bid to boost a flailing economy and fulfil promises made to its voters. Since taking power last year, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon&...

04 Aug 2024

American Love of Burgers Fuels New Zealand’s Red Meat Sector

An insatiable hunger for beef burgers and a renewed love for lamb are helping keep New Zealand’s red meat sector buoyant, while demand from China remains weak. New Zealand’s red meat exports to the United States and Canada have risen this year. See also: NZ repor...

02 Aug 2024

Australian cattle and sheep market wrap w/e 28th July 2024

Key points: Sheep and lamb slaughter rose 8%, buoyed by processors coming back online after schedules closures. Feeder steer prices lifted to numbers not seen since May 2023. Sheep and lamb yardings eased by 25%. Cattle market The cattle market was positive once again, with al...

30 Jul 2024

Greece Bans Movement of Goats and Sheep Due to ‘Goat Plague’

ATHENS, July 29 (Reuters) – Greece has banned moving sheep and goats from their farms to try to contain a viral infection known as “goat plague” after new cases were detected over the weekend, the agriculture ministry said on Monday. The virus, also known as ...

25 Jul 2024

China Aims to Control Dairy & Beef Output to Stabilise Prices

BEIJING, July 24 (Reuters) – China plans to implement measures to help dairy and beef producers limit production to prevent prices from falling further, an agriculture official said on Wednesday, adding to existing rules on pork producers as meat consumption declines. Th...

23 Jul 2024

Global demand for Australian beef rising

Australia’s market share in Japan and Korea is continuing to lift as the United States emerges as the number one export destination for beef in Q1 2024, according to a new global market update from Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA). MLA’s latest Global Beef Market Updat...

22 Jul 2024

China Targets Danish, Dutch, and Spanish Firms in EU Pork Probe

BEIJING, July 18 (Reuters) – China on Thursday named Danish Crown A/S, as well as Dutch and Spanish pork firms as targets in an anti-dumping probe into European Union pork imports, as Beijing steps up pressure against the bloc’s curbs on its electric vehicle export...

22 Jul 2024

South Korean beef buyers visit Irish farms and processors

Bord Bia is hosting eight beef buyers from South Korea on a tour of Ireland, visiting beef farms and meat processors from July 15th to 20th. The group, which includes leading meat importers and distributors from South Korea, will follow a busy itinerary designed to give them ...

21 Jul 2024

Brazil Suspends Poultry Meat Exports Over Sanitary Concerns

Brazilian authorities halted all shipments of poultry meat to China, Europe, and Argentina on Friday after a case of Newcastle disease was detected in the municipality of Anta Gorda in the State of Rio Grande do Sul. “In line with international standards on trade in poultry ...

17 Jul 2024

Analysis: English Beef and Lamb Standards vs European Markets

The latest report focuses on EU markets including Ireland, Germany, Poland, France and the Netherlands. The reports, which are independently reviewed, evidence the current position regarding farmgate production standards at both a regulatory and voluntary level in England. Thi...

15 Jul 2024

ASF outbreaks spreading in Vietnam, government say

HANOI, July 15 (Reuters) – African swine fever outbreaks are spreading in Vietnam and could affect its food supplies and put upward pressure on inflation, according to a government document. ASF has for years disrupted the $250 billion global pork market. In the worst ou...

15 Jul 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e July 6th 2024

Quotes Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €7.00-€7.20/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Prices have continued to come under pressure this week with reports of weaker demand from some major customers for Irish lamb. Irela...

15 Jul 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e July 6th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 32,340 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending July 6th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 907,685 head. This is a -8,459 head or 1% decrease on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 899,...

09 Jul 2024

Brazil’s Beef Exports Reach New Heights in 2024

Brazil establishes new beef export record in the first half of this year, having shipped 1,29 million tons of animal protein, which represents a 27% over the same period in 2023, with 1.019 million tons. Revenues was up 17%, to US$ 5,69 billion. Also: JBS Exceeds Expectations ...

08 Jul 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e June 29th 2024

Quotes Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €7.50-€7.70/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Prices have continued to come under pressure this week with reports of weaker demand from some major customers for Irish lamb. Irela...

08 Jul 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e June 29th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 31,856 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending June 29th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 875,327 head. This is a -8,851 head or 2% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of ...

05 Jul 2024

Sheep and Goat Meat Exports from Australia Reach All-Time Highs

The past financial year has seen a huge burst in export volumes, with Australian export numbers for red meat the highest on record at over 2 million tonnes. Lamb, mutton and goatmeat all had record high volumes, while beef exports matched the levels seen during 2019–20. Lamb...

05 Jul 2024

Argentina beef consumption seen at record low in 2024

BUENOS AIRES, July 5 (Reuters) – Beef-loving Argentines are cutting back on their steaks as the country’s economy slumps, meaning cattle consumption will likely hit a record low this year, a market report published on Friday showed. Argentina’s beef consumpti...

01 Jul 2024

AIMS: Norman Bagley steps down

Press Statement: Norman Bagley to spend more time with golf clubs. After nearly 25 years of visionary leadership, Norman Bagley, the stalwart founder and driving force behind the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS), is stepping back from his day-to-day role. Since...

28 Jun 2024

From Knighthood to Culinary Delight: The History of The Sirloin

One of the meat industry’s most popular cuts is the sirloin. With its medieval history and versatility for cooking, it’s easy to see why. Grilled, roasted, pan-seared, or even as leftovers in a sandwich, this cut of beef has a delicious and long-standing history in British...

28 Jun 2024

New Zealand exporters to lead Taste Pure Nature programme

New Zealand exporters will take the lead in advancing the Taste Pure Nature brand and activity programme, which is designed to raise awareness and drive preference for New Zealand grass-fed beef and lamb. “As a sector, our future lies in driving more value and ultimately h...

28 Jun 2024

UK Cattle & Sheep Market Wrap: Week Ending 27th June 2024

Key points Prices for week ending 22 June 2024 Average prime deadweight cattle prices were relatively steady in the latest week, as supplies reduced. Cows saw slight pressure in the overall average price despite lower kill. Conversely, new season lamb prices continued on their...

28 Jun 2024

Australian cattle and sheep market wrap w/e 21st June 2024

Key points: Lamb slaughter once again reached record numbers, processing 511,102 head. Cattle slaughter was the highest since January 2020, at 142,390 head. Restocker Yearling Steer prices fell below Feeder Steers for the first time since October 2023. Cattle market The cattle...

28 Jun 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e June 15th 2024

Quotes Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €8.80-€9.20/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of €9.10-9.20/kg (+QA bonus) avail...

28 Jun 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e June 15th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 29,653 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending June 15th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 812,584 head. This is a 11,534 head or 2% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 8...

27 Jun 2024

Denmark to charge farmers £80 per cow in world-first meat tax

Denmark will charge farmers up to £80 for every cow in a world-first carbon tax on agriculture as the country tries to encourage people to eat less meat to tackle climate change. Agriculture is the largest emitting sector in Denmark, a major pork and dairy exporter and the g...

27 Jun 2024

Worsening financial performance for Ukraine’s largest poultry processor

Ukraine’s largest poultry processor, MHP, saw its net profit plummet nearly threefold due to the devaluation of the hryvnia and a surge in conflict-related costs. During the first quarter of 2024, MHP generated a net profit of US$16 million compared with US$49 million in t...

27 Jun 2024

GB pig prices: SPP falls again – NPA

Weekly pig prices and slaughter data for Great Britain. The EU-spec SPP lost another 0.62p during the week ended June 15 to stand at 209.94p/kg, more than cancelling out the previous week’s gain of 0.4p. After the shock 1.23p reduction during the first week of week of Jun...

26 Jun 2024

Russia exporting pork to Iran

Russia’s southern Rostov region has exported 17 tonnes of pork to Iran over a five-day period, the Russian agricultural watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor reported on June 26. Despite the newly listed export market, Iran is technically a pork-free market due to being overwhelming...

26 Jun 2024

Pork market update: EU production steady as prices see some stability

Key points: Total EU production saw marginal gains of 0.3% in the first quarter compared to 2023 Large production declines in Spain and Denmark as slaughter levels fall The EU Grade E pig price was sitting stable before dipping in the week ending 16 June ASF remains a huge cha...

26 Jun 2024

Meat recalled in south east due to food safety concerns

Restaurants, cafes and hotels in the south east and London have been told to remove certain meat products from menus over fears they are not safe to eat. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said it had asked trading standards officers to remove products made by Block and Cleaver, ...

25 Jun 2024

Hilton Foods says plan for Drogheda expansion will add 60 jobs

Hilton Foods, the London-listed meat-processing group, has moved to extend its facility in Drogheda. If successful, the move will add 60 jobs to its 280-strong workforce in Ireland. Last week, Hilton Foods submitted a planning application to Louth County Council seeking to ext...

24 Jun 2024

Poland’s President Urges China to Open Market for Polish Meat

We want to achieve a greater opening on the Chinese market, above all for our meat products, Poland’s President Andrzej Duda said before departing for China on Saturday. During his five-day official visit, the president will meet China’s President Xi Jinping and Pr...

22 Jun 2024

Concerns about ‘Toxic Bullying Culture’ at Hybu Cig Cymru

A Conservative MS called for Hybu Cig Cymru to be made fully independent amid concerns about a “toxic bullying culture” within the meat promotion organisation. James Evans, the shadow rural affairs secretary, warned the farming industry is losing faith in Hybu Cig Cymru (H...

21 Jun 2024

Pig prices: SPP regains some lost ground – NPA

The EU-spec SPP regained some lost ground, increasing by 0.4p to stand at 210.56p/kg during the week ended June 15, following the previous week’s shock 1.23p fall. It is now 3.3p below where it was at the start of the year and more than 12p below a year ago. The APP, ...

18 Jun 2024

Tesco to reduce chicken stocking density by first half of 2025

All of Tesco’s fresh chicken will be grown with 20% more space than the industry standard, the retailer has announced. The measure, announced by the supermarket today (18 June), forms part of a range of improvements to its poultry welfare standards. It means chickens wil...

18 Jun 2024

Danish lobby group urges swift solution to China’s threatened pork tariffs

COPENHAGEN, June 17 (Reuters) – Denmark’s pork industry said it would be hit hard if China restricts imports of European meat, the lobby group Danish Agriculture & Food Council told Reuters on Monday, and called for a solution to be found before July 4. China...

18 Jun 2024

Rival pork exporters could benefit from China-EU trade tensions

SINGAPORE, June 17 (Reuters) – Pork suppliers from South America and the U.S. could gain market share in China if Beijing restricts imports from the European Union in response to escalating trade tensions, traders and analysts said. Russia, increasingly a close trading ...

18 Jun 2024

Welsh red meat body in turmoil after two directors resign

Welsh red meat levy body Hybu Cig Cymru (HCC) – Meat Promotion Wales – is descending into chaos amid reports of internal divisions, board members and key staff leaving, Farmers Weekly understands. The role of chairwoman Catherine Smith is coming under scrutiny after 39 m...

17 Jun 2024

Spain Calls for Talks to Avoid Tariffs on EU Pork Exports to China

MADRID, June 17 (Reuters) – Spain on Monday called for negotiations to avoid tariffs on its pork exports to China, after Beijing said it would open an anti-dumping probe into pork coming from the European Union. Also: EU pork industry faces ‘nightmare’ if China restr...

17 Jun 2024

Irish Pig Market Update 12th June

There was no announced change to Irish pig prices on Friday. Producers are reporting quotes of at least €2.26 – €2.33 available from processors in ROI, with some reporting up to €2.35/kg. This signals strong demand for pigs with the average price circa €2...

17 Jun 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e June 8th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 28,736 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending June 8th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 782,949 head. This is a 14,280 head or 2% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 76...

17 Jun 2024

Cattle slaughtered due to bTB incident up 17% in Wales

Total animals slaughtered due to a bovine TB incident in Wales has increased by 17 percent, bleak new government figures show. The figures, covering April 2023 to March 2024, show that a total of 11,197 cattle were slaughtered due to bTB, a rise of 17%. Overall TB herd inciden...

17 Jun 2024

Dawn Meats and Aldi agree new five year deal

Dawn Meats and Aldi have signed a new, five-year supply contract worth €125m. Dawn Meats has been supplying Aldi since 2010 and, under the terms of the new deal, it will increase the amount it sells to Aldi by 35%. It will also add six new lines to the Aldi range. See also: ...

16 Jun 2024

EU pork industry faces ‘nightmare’ if China restricts imports

HAMBURG/LLEIDA, June 14 (Reuters) – Europe’s pork industry faces a “nightmare scenario” of lower prices and falling profitability if China restricts imports from the region, industry executives and analysts said on Friday. Chinese firms have asked for a...

16 Jun 2024

Irish Horse Abattoir Shut Down Amidst Welfare Abuses Investigation

The abattoir where RTÉ Investigates filmed “distressing” footage of welfare abuses on horses has been shut down by Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue. McConalogue said his Department is “actively investigating the absolutely abhorrent mistreatment of animals and s...

14 Jun 2024

NZ report on China market examines when demand may improve

Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ) has published a market insights report detailing the current and projected state of New Zealand’s red meat exports to China. The report highlights several key factors influencing market conditions and when we may expect to see conditions impro...

14 Jun 2024

China firms seek anti-dumping probe of EU pork imports, ramping up tensions

BEIJING, June 14 (Reuters) – Chinese firms have formally applied for an anti-dumping probe into pork imports from the European Union, the state-backed Global Times reported, escalating tensions after the bloc imposed anti-subsidy duties on Chinese-made electric vehicles....

14 Jun 2024

Is the Australian lamb market becoming more volatile?

Key points: Lamb prices are more volatile as market players become more reactive to market conditions. Slaughter can help indicate the overall supply of the market. Relying on the lamb production life cycle to predict prices without considering the overall market can lead to u...

14 Jun 2024

South Korea lifts restrictions on French and Irish beef

South Korea is reopening its borders to French and Irish beef, after closing them in 2001 following the “mad cow” scandal, the European Commission announced on Thursday (13 June), calling it a “significant development” at a time when EU beef market is stagnating. This ...

13 Jun 2024

Food Security is National Security: Labour’s Stance in Manifesto

Labour has said that “food security is national security” as the party announced its general election manifesto today. Unveiled by Sir Keir Starmer in Manchester, the manifesto says Labour would “champion British farming whilst protecting the environment̶...

12 Jun 2024

GB pig prices for w/e June 8th, 2024 – SPP and APP both record large drops

Weekly pig prices and slaughter data for Great Britain. In an unwelcome shock for many pig producers, the EU-spec SPP dropped back by 1.23p during the week ended June 8, to stand at 210.16p/kg, while the APP has also recorded a big loss. This was the biggest movement either...

12 Jun 2024

LDC to Acquire Cargill’s Polish Konspol Poultry Brand

French poultry processing company LDC is set to acquire the Konspol Poland brand and factory from agri-food giant Cargill. Financial details were not disclosed. The plant is located in Nowy Sacz in southern Poland and generated a consolidated turnover of €35m ($38m) in 2023,...

11 Jun 2024

Browns Food Group Partners with AK Stoddart

AK Stoddart has become Scotland’s largest privately-owned meat business, thanks to a multi-million pound investment from Browns Food Group. This move creates Scotland’s largest privately-owned meat business and reinforces investment in the Scottish meat sector. The com...

11 Jun 2024

Pig prices start to climb as EU market improves

Stagnant GB pig prices have held at about 211p/kg since the beginning of 2024, however uplifts in EU prices and increased domestic demand could help to provide some support moving forward. The EU-spec standard pig price improved marginally during early June to 211.4p/kg, while...

11 Jun 2024

Liz Truss Slams ‘Animal Extremists’ Targeting Farmers

Former Prime Minister Liz Truss has made comments against animal ‘extremists’ who ‘intimidate’ farming businesses. Ms Truss, who was also once Defra Secretary, touched upon the subject while in her constituency South West Norfolk, as she bids to be re-e...

10 Jun 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e June 1st 2024

Quotes: Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €8.80-€9.20/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of €9.10-9.20/kg (+QA bonus) ava...

06 Jun 2024

Jais Valeur to step down as Group CEO of Danish Crown

In May, the Board of Directors of Danish Crown and the Executive Board started work on a new group strategy, which is expected to be ready for presentation in the autumn. Prior to this, Group CEO Jais Valeur has discussed with Chairman of the Board Asger Krogsgaard the need to...

06 Jun 2024

Australian Red Meat Continues to Gain Popularity in the USA

Lamb During May, 36,703 tonnes of lamb were exported, which is the highest lamb export on record for a single month. The United States (US) continues to be the largest market for Australian lamb, followed by China and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The increas...

31 May 2024

What is happening in the Australian lamb market right now?

Over the past year, the lamb market has seen a turnaround, with strong sentiment and an improved weather outlook. The industry has seen prices improve by 10–20% compared to a year ago. When it comes to lambing season, the availability of high-quality feed is critical to not ...

31 May 2024

China approves imports of Danish Crown processed pork

BEIJING (Reuters) – China has approved the import of Danish salami, frankfurter sausages and canned pork, top processor Danish Crown [DACRO.UL] said this week, clearing the way for shipments of higher-value processed meat to the world’s top pork consumer. The agree...

31 May 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e May 19th 2024

Quotes: Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €9.30-€9.50/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of €9.55-9.65/kg (+QA bonus) ava...

31 May 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e May 19th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 31,984 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending May 19th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 692,034 head. This is a 18,573 head or 3% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 673,...

22 May 2024

NSA welcomes live export ban

Following the royal assent of legislation ending the exports of live animals for slaughter the National Sheep Association (NSA) is welcoming completion of the ban. NSA Chief Executive Phil Stocker says: “The export trade for live animals for further finishing or slaughter ha...

22 May 2024

Opportunities at the Saudi Food Show for British Lamb Exporters

This week, British lamb and dairy businesses headed to Saudi Arabia in a bid to meet growing consumer demand and build on long term export opportunities. Exporters from both sectors have joined us at the Saudi Food Show in Riyadh from 21−23 May. The show is Saudi Arabia’s ...

21 May 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e May 12th 2024

Quotes: Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have tightened this week with base quotes of €9.30-€9.40/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of €9.55-9.65/kg (+QA bonus) ava...

20 May 2024

Export of live animals from the UK now banned

A new ban on exporting live animals came into law today (Monday 20 May) as the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Act received Royal Assent, capitalising on a post-Brexit freedoms and bolstering the UK’s position as a world leader in animal welfare standards. The legislation...

20 May 2024

Quarterly Australian Lamb Slaughter Hits All-Time High

The latest livestock products data released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) shows that last quarter, Australia had the highest lamb slaughter on record at 6,935,700 head. The data, analysed by Meat & Livestock Australia (MLA), also shows that the January-Mar...

20 May 2024

China buys 95,000 tons of beef monthly from Brazil

April 2024 was a historic milestone in beef exports for Brazil having shipped 236,842 tons, generating revenues totaling US$ 1.043 billion, points out Agrilink. Leading the list was China, trailed closely by the United Arab Emirates and Hong Kong, which experienced a substanti...

20 May 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e May 12th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 30,743 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending May 12th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 660,140 head. This is a 18,633 head or 3% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 64...

18 May 2024

UK approves tariff-free meat imports from Australia and NZ

The UK and EU have ratified a change to the Windsor Framework which allows NI businesses to make greater use of UK trade deals. The change allows tariff-free imports of certain meat products from Australia and New Zealand. The government says the deal addresses a post-Brexit p...

18 May 2024

Backlash as Morrisons trials sale of New Zealand lamb

Morrisons has received a backlash from angry farmers as it trials the sale of New Zealand lamb instead of 100% British lamb in 39 of its stores. The supermarket says the move is due to customer demand for cheaper prices. “The blunt commercial reality is that New Zealand ...

16 May 2024

New mayor puts meat back on the menu

Worcester City’s new mayor has put meat back on the menu at the Guildhall after her predecessor removed it from the Mayor’s Parlour earlier in the year. Speaking at the hall after becoming mayor on Tuesday, Mel Allcott stated: “There will be a variety of refreshm...

15 May 2024

Mexican Visit Highlights Opportunities for UK Pork Exports

An inspection of the UK pork sector by an official delegation from Mexico has been labelled a ‘milestone moment’ in maintaining and expanding market access to the region for the industry. The delegation of Mexican officials spent two weeks inspecting abattoirs and cold sto...

14 May 2024

Paraguayan beef granted entry into Canadian market

Canada’s Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) greenlighted the entry of Paraguayan meat into their market with nine packing plants already authorised to start shipments. Paraguayan President Santiago Peña celebrated the good news with postings on social media. “I congratulat...

11 May 2024

Australian exports stay firm as global landscape shifts

Beef Beef exports lifted 46% from April 2023 to 113,431 tonnes. This is the largest beef export volume for April since 2015, and the second highest on record. Exports lifted in most major exports markets, with the United States remaining the largest beef market with exports ri...

11 May 2024

Australia to ban controversial live sheep exports by sea from May 2028

SYDNEY, May 11 (Reuters) – Australia’s government said on Saturday it would ban live sheep exports from the country by sea from May 2028, fulfilling a pledge to end a practice long opposed by animal welfare advocates. “We are giving certainty to sheep produce...

10 May 2024

BSE case confirmed in Ayrshire

A case of classical Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) has been confirmed on a farm in Ayrshire. Precautionary movement restrictions have been put in place at impacted premises and cover animals which have been in contact with the case. Further investigations to identify t...

07 May 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e April 28th 2024

Quotes: Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have improved this week with base quotes of €9.20-€9.40/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of €10/kg (+QA bonus) available. ...

07 May 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e April 28th 2024

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 33,164 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending April 28th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 596,422 head. This is a 17,139 head or 2.8% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total...

05 May 2024

Ron DeSantis bans ‘global elite’ lab-grown meat

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has banned lab-grown meat, saying he will “save our beef” from the “global elite” and its “authoritarian plans”. “Florida is fighting back against the global elite’s plan to force the world to eat me...

03 May 2024

Brazil declares country foot-and-mouth disease-free without vaccination

SAO PAULO, May 2 (Reuters) – Brazil declared itself on Thursday as free of foot and mouth disease without vaccination, and will request World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) to recognize that status as it seeks to open more markets for its meat exports. Brazil̵...

01 May 2024

Dover border checks: Illegal sheep meat posed risk, officials say

Sheep carcasses transported to the UK without temperature controls, with blood dripping on other food such as pig parts, chicken, beef and cheese, were seized at the Port of Dover days before new controls came in, officials said. Dover Port Health Authority (DPHA) said it seiz...

30 Apr 2024

US to test ground beef in states with bird-flu outbreaks in dairy cows

CHICAGO, April 29 (Reuters) – The U.S. government said on Monday it is collecting samples of ground beef at retail stores in states with outbreaks of bird flu in dairy cows for testing, but remains confident the meat supply is safe. Federal officials are seeking to verif...

27 Apr 2024

Colombia becomes first country to restrict US beef due to bird flu in dairy cows

CHICAGO, April 25 (Reuters) – Colombia has restricted the import of beef and beef products coming from U.S. states where dairy cows have tested positive for avian influenza as of April 15, according the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It is the first country to officiall...

19 Apr 2024

Irish Sheep Trade & Prices w/e April 13th 2024

Quotes: Base quotes for hoggets from the major processors have improved this week with base quotes of 900-930c/kg (+QA bonus) on offer. Small numbers of spring lambs have started to be processed in Irish processing plants with quotes of 960c/kg (+QA bonus) available. The stro...

19 Apr 2024

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices w/e April 13th 2024

Throughput: There were 34,425 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending April 13th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 529,442 head. This is a 14,293 head or 11% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 515,149 cattle ...

19 Apr 2024

Danish Crown closes slaughterhouse in Denmark

COPENHAGEN, April 20 (Reuters) – Danish Crown will close one of its major slaughterhouses in Denmark and will lay off about 800 employees as part of a restructuring process, the meat producer and exporter said on Thursday. The company said it expects to hire up to 450 ne...

18 Apr 2024

China lifts ban on some German beef imports

BEIJING, April 16 (Reuters) – China has lifted mad cow disease-related bans on some German beef imports, Chinese customs authorities said, after German Chancellor Olaf Scholz pressed Chinese counterparts for better market access in a visit to Beijing. The easing applies ...

16 Apr 2024

Brazil says China clears 38 more meat plants for export

SAO PAULO, March 12 (Reuters) – The Brazilian government has said 38 additional meat plants have been cleared to sell products to China in what it said was an historic move as both countries celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations, according to a statement on Tu...

16 Apr 2024

“Wronged” red meat gets global academic approval

A group of highly-respected, independent international academics have banded together to project positive news about eating red meat as a result of their mutual concerns about the impacts of inaccurate and partisan work in the same field of research. The group, including Profe...

16 Apr 2024

Welsh Beef producers shine during Great British Beef Week

Welsh Beef producers are set to take centre stage with Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), shining a light on the sectors sustainability credentials during Great British Beef Week (23-30 April). As part of its activity, which will feature beef farmers from across Wa...

16 Apr 2024

First shipment of Russian pork arrives in China

MOSCOW. April 15 (Interfax) – The first shipment of Russian pork has been delivered to the Chinese market according to Miratorg, the first company to begin deliveries after China lifted restrictions on Russian pork imports last September. A consignment of products weighi...

15 Apr 2024

Australian meat exports continue to climb

Despite an early Easter, red meat exports in March rose 9% from last year to 182,480 tonnes, making this past month the largest March in terms of exports since 2015 and the second largest on record. Beef Australia exported 106,574 tonnes of beef over March, 8% more than last y...

11 Apr 2024

QMS drives innovation within the butchery sector

Scotland’s apprentice butchers are benefiting from a focus on innovation provided through the Scotch Butchers Club, run by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS). It recently partnered with industry leaders to provide learning and development opportunities for 24 apprentice butchers ac...

10 Apr 2024

Ireland: Weekly Cattle Prices 10th April

Prices reported as quoted or paid to IFA Members. Strong demand. Factories paying above quotes. Steer base €5.20/5.30/kg. Heifer base €5.25/5.35kg. Young Bulls R/U €5.10/5.50/kg. Higher prices for larger and specialised lots. Cows €4.10/€4.90/kg. In-spec bonus 20c/kg...

09 Apr 2024

UK Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e 30/03

Cattle Deadweight prime cattle prices were generally pressured in the latest week, with the GB all-prime average measure down by 2p/kg to 487.7p/kg for the week ending 30 March. The measure is now in-line with the same week last year. Breaking the prime category down, overall...

09 Apr 2024

Irish Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e 31/03

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 31,967 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending March 31st 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 462,669 head. This is a 10,947 head or 2.4% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total o...

09 Apr 2024

Abattoir to diversify with meat vending machine

An application for self-serve meat vending machines has been submitted to council planners. Abbatoir Cig Oen Caron is seeking permission from Ceredigion County Council for two vending machines at Tregaron cattle market. The machines would be “stocked on a daily basis”, wit...

09 Apr 2024

Plukon Food Group buys Polish poultry business Algas

Wezep – Katowice, 2 April 2024, Plukon Food Group (Plukon) has reached an agreement in principle with the shareholders of Algas SP Sp. z o.o. (Algas) to acquire 100% of their slaughtering and processing activities. Algas, under the leadership of the Szatan family, is a secon...

05 Apr 2024

Irish Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e 24/03

Cattle & Beef Throughput: There were 33,106 cattle processed in DAFM approved plants during the week ending March 24th 2024, taking throughput for the year to date to 430,700 head. This is a 11,783 head or 3% increase on the corresponding period in 2023 when a total of 41...

05 Apr 2024

QMS relaunches Scotch Beef Club in Italy

Scotch Beef is now high fashion in Milan after Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) relaunched the Scotch Beef Club in Italy, focussing on increasing exports to this high-profile, premium market. To celebrate the relaunch, an audience of leading foodservice stakeholders in the Italian ...

04 Apr 2024

Australian goatmeat exports surge in 2023

Australian goatmeat exports for 2023 reached their second highest volume on record for a calendar year since 2014. A total of 33,891 tonnes of shipped weight (swt) Australian goatmeat was exported in 2023, a significant increase on the 21,831 swt exported in 2022. While volume...

03 Apr 2024

The Parson’s Nose and other unfashionable cuts of meat

With the costs of living and running a business still going up, let us introduce you to some of the more unfashionable cuts of meat that can be bought cheaply and, when handled right, will still create a delicious dish.

30 Mar 2024

QMS reports early signs of seasonal uplift in the pig market

Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) has indicated that the pig market is showing early signs of a seasonal uplift. After experiencing downward pressure at the start of 2024, the GB Standard Pig Price (SPP) has been relatively stable in February and March. Notably, carcass prices for w...

29 Mar 2024

Excessive cost rise impacts Scottish meat chain

Scotland’s meat industry is at risk of being rendered ‘uncompetitive’ in comparison to the rest of the UK by the imposition of huge cost increases by Food Standards Scotland (FSS). An April 1st price hike by FSS of 20% for the provision of Official Veterinarians (OVs) an...

28 Mar 2024

The outlook for global poultry markets in 2024 – Rabobank

The outlook for global poultry markets in 2024 is moderately positive, with demand expected to gradually recover. Here are some key points from Rabobank’s report: Demand Recovery: There’s an anticipated shift from consumer focus on prices to a recovery in demand for value-...

28 Mar 2024

What is Great British Beef Week?

Great British Beef Week 2024. Great British Beef Week (GBBW) is a nationwide campaign in the UK that celebrates the versatility and exceptional taste of British beef. It also highlights the commitment and dedication of British beef farmers to sustainable practices. The 14th an...

26 Mar 2024

Over 100 tractors rally outside parliament as concern over policy grows

More than 100 tractors rallied outside the Houses of Parliament as part of the industry’s latest protest against the direction of government policy. Tractors taking part in the go-slow protest on Monday evening (25 March) made their way through central London’s str...

26 Mar 2024

NFU Scotland welcomes mandatory legislation to tackle Avian Influenza

National Farmers’ Union (NFU) Scotland has welcomed the announcement of new legislation requiring all bird keepers to register their flocks. The mandatory requirement follows a long-running campaign driven by the “continued threat” of Avian Influenza to Scottish poultry,...

26 Mar 2024

UK Halal sector expected to be worth £13.5bn by 2028

The Halal Monitoring Committee has published a report on the halal sector, which looks at the importance of the halal market to UK farming and to the UK economy. Research conducted by Dr Awal Fuseini, Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s (AHDB) halal sector senio...

25 Mar 2024

Ireland: Weekly Cattle Prices 20th March

Prices reported as quoted or paid to IFA Members. Strong demand. Factories paying above quotes. Steer base €5.15/5.25/kg. Heifer base €5.20/5.30kg. Young Bulls R/U €5.10/5.50/kg. Higher prices for larger and specialised lots. Cows €4.10/€4.90/kg. In-spec bonus 20c/kg...

25 Mar 2024

NZ and EU trade agreement to take effect on May 1

SYDNEY, March 25 (Reuters) – New Zealand said on Monday a free trade agreement with the European Union would come into effect on May 1, after the country’s parliament ratified the deal. New Zealand notified the European Union it ratified the agreement earlier on Mo...

24 Mar 2024

Australian Government leads red meat mission in the UK

The Cook Government’s Minister for Agriculture and Food is leading the first Western Australian delegation of its kind to the United Kingdom, which includes some of the State’s major sheep meat and cattle producers. Agriculture and Food Minister Jackie Jarvis is le...

23 Mar 2024

Belgium says free of bird flu in poultry

PARIS, March 22 (Reuters) – Belgium has regained its status of being free of bird flu, which will allow producers to resume poultry exports and other countries to lift trade bans, Belgian food safety authorities have said. The Paris-based World Organisation for Animal He...

22 Mar 2024

Red Tractor Axes Greener Farms Commitment Module

Red tractor assurance today announces that it is dropping its greener farms commitment module (gfc), following feedback from its members. The module was developed to help farmers, processors and retailers meet the growing need for all to demonstrate sustainability, but ...

21 Mar 2024

Derbyshire abattoir expansion plans approved despite concerns

An abattoir in Derbyshire has had expansion plans approved despite concerns from residents. At a South Derbyshire District Council meeting on Tuesday, plans to expand Pickstock Abattoir in Coal Lane, between Hartshorne and Ticknall, were approved by councillors. A resident had...

19 Mar 2024

Abattoir ‘found to be transporting warm meat’ fined thousands

Higginshaw Abattoir Ltd, based in Royton, Oldham, was ordered to pay £12,000 after being found guilty of charges relating to the dispatch of over-temperature meat. The law states that meat must be immediately chilled and kept below 7°C, and below 3°C in the case of offal,...

19 Mar 2024

New measures to help protect poultry industry from bird flu

New measures to better protect the poultry sector from future avian influenza outbreaks have been set out by the government today (19 March). Under the changes announced there will be new requirements for all bird keepers – regardless of the size of their flock – t...

09 Mar 2024

The Origins of Corned Beef

Corned beef, with its succulent taste and rich history, has traversed continents and centuries, captivating palates worldwide. The term “corned beef” is thought to have originated from the English term “corn,” which referred to the coarse grains of sa...

07 Mar 2024

Battle starts for bakers to be crowned UK pie champion

Hundreds of bakers will put their skills to the test hoping to be crowned the supreme champion at the 16th British Pie Awards. Vegan, dessert and the traditional pork pies were sampled on Wednesday in the Leicestershire town synonymous with the savoury favourite, Melton Mowbra...

04 Mar 2024

Bernard Matthews confirms closure of Norfolk headquarters

Poultry producer Bernard Matthews has confirmed the closure of its headquarters. The company has been based at the site in Great Witchingham, Norfolk, since 1955 and employs about 600 people there. The company previously said the factory had become “loss-making and not ...

02 Mar 2024

A Look at the Middle East’s Meat Industry

The Key Players: A Dive into the Middle East’s Meat Industry The Middle East’s meat industry stands as a cornerstone of the region’s economy, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and diverse culinary traditions. From succulent lamb dishes to sizzling kebabs,...

29 Feb 2024

National Butchers Week returns for 2024

March 4th to 10th is National Butchers Week! National Butchers Week is your invitation to dive into the world of exceptional meats available right at your local butcher shops. Why should you get involved? Here’s why: Your local butcher is a treasure trove of premium, oft...

28 Feb 2024

FSA launches consultation on Mechanically Separated Meat

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a public consultation seeking views on new guidance relating to Mechanically Separated Meat (MSM). The FSA has developed new guidance to provide support for food businesses following a series of court judgments on the definition o...

28 Feb 2024

Plans For Isle of Wight Abattoir

Discussions about establishing an abattoir on the Isle of Wight are progressing, with representatives of the National Farmers Union set to meet with the Farming Minister this week. Local MP Bob Seely has arranged the meeting with Farming Minister Mark Spencer following a discu...

28 Feb 2024

France issues new ban on meat names for plant protein

PARIS, Feb 27 (Reuters) – France on Tuesday issued a ban on using terms like steak and ham for plant protein products, a second attempt by the government to regulate meat alternatives as it tries to assuage livestock producers who have been at the heart of farmer protest...

28 Feb 2024

China scraps Brazilian poultry tariff

SAO PAULO : China’s government has opted to not renew a tariff on imports of poultry products from Brazil, the South American nation said on Tuesday. China hit Brazil with a tariff of between 17.8 per cent and 34.2 per cent in 2019 on its poultry in a bid to prevent R...

27 Feb 2024

Study examines ‘virus and host’ factors in ASF

Researchers from The Pirbright Institute are joining UCL experts in a study to understand how African swine fever virus (ASFV) enters and replicates in pig cells. Scientists at UCL’s Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, led by Professor Finn Werner and funded ...

20 Feb 2024

Pig Sector Calls for Border Protection

The pig sector has called on all parties to act to deliver fairness in the supply chain and to protect borders from diseases like African swine fever (ASF), ahead of an expected election this year. The National Pig Association (NPA) has today published its election manifesto, ...

19 Feb 2024

Irish Food Takes Aim at US Market

The United States has long forged its place in history as the ‘land of opportunity’, but there really is no better way to describe it for the Irish agri-food firms making top dollar offering a taste of the Emerald Isle stateside. The United States is Ireland’...

17 Feb 2024

Farmers warn food security ‘really under threat’ amid supermarket protest

Farmers in Kent are stationing their tractors in a supermarket car park to protest against cheap imports and “win over” the British public. Around 20 tractors are parked at Tesco Extra in Whitfield, near Dover, to raise awareness of the threat to food security in the UK, b...

16 Feb 2024

Herefordshire meat supplier get go-ahead to expand

A high-profile Herefordshire meat supplier has been told it can expand its packing and distribution plant – despite objections from neighbours. Neil Powell of Country Tastes, Longmeadow Industrial Estate, Ewyas Harold applied in March last year for planning permission for th...

16 Feb 2024

Small abattoir closures ‘spells disaster’ for rural areas, campaigners warn

The closure of the only small abattoir in the Yorkshire Dales ‘spells disaster’ for the rural community, landscape and local food, campaigners have warned. McIntyre Meats will shut down for good on 27 March after 23 years in business, serving 1,800 customers repres...

16 Feb 2024

Wiltshire set to join growing number of councils defying plant-based movement

Wiltshire Council is set to join a growing number of local authorities who are defying the plant-based movement in a show of support for farmers of all sectors. A campaign by the Countryside Alliance to push councils into expressing support for farmers while rejecting compulso...

14 Feb 2024

Improvements still needed at meat plant – minister

Governance at the Isle of Man’s meat plant has been “improved significantly” but more needs to be done, the minister with responsibility for it has said. Environment, Food and Agriculture Minister Clare Barber took over as chairman of the loss-making plant...

14 Feb 2024

Dublin Butcher Slams Rogan’s Diet as ‘Propaganda’

A Dublin butcher has warned against the carnivore diet trend popularised by podcast star Joe Rogan and others. The carnivore diet has also been promoted by psychologist Jordan Peterson, and various TikTok stars including Courtney Luna. But Barry Kerrigan, who runs Kerrigan...

13 Feb 2024

EU dumped lab meats from climate plans on farm chief’s demand

BRUSSELS — The European Commission scrubbed a push to promote lab-grown and plant-based meats from a key climate proposal at the urging of Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski. The EU released proposed plans for a strict new climate goal for 2040 on Tuesday. The ann...

13 Feb 2024

EU Court Backs Belgian Slaughter Rules

The European rights court on Tuesday upheld the right of two Belgian regions to ban ritual animal slaughter without prior stunning. Two of the country’s three regions — Flanders and Wallonia — in 2017 and 2018 banned the slaughter of livestock that have not b...

13 Feb 2024

Irish Pig Farmers See Brighter Future

The market for pig farmers “appears to be settling and turning a corner”, according to the Irish Farmers’ Association. Some producers selling their pigs to smaller processors received an increase of 4c/kg while producers selling pigs to Northern Ireland are r...

13 Feb 2024

Florida Still Says No to Cultured Meat

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — It’s called “cultivated meat” — protein not from an animal but grown in a lab using cells from livestock — and Florida is now inching closer to banning it. A large agriculture bill that includes the restrictions cleared another com...

13 Feb 2024

Rollercoaster Year for NZ Red Meat

The value of New Zealand’s red meat exports last year suffered an 11% drop to $10.2 billion, compared with the 2022. But according to the Meat Industry Association (MIA), this was despite the fact the actual volume of meat exported was up. The drop in value, according to Mea...

11 Feb 2024

Massive Chicken Theft in Cuba

Cuban authorities have charged 30 people for stealing around 133 tonnes of chicken meat and selling it on the street in a major food heist in Havana. Suspects are said to have taken 1,660 white boxes from a state facility in the capital and used the sale proceeds to buy refri...

11 Feb 2024

AHDB Pork Outlook predicts slow pig industry recovery in 2024

AHDB is forecasting only very limited recovery in both pork production and pig breeding numbers in 2024, despite much more favourable market conditions, as producers remain very cautious about expanding their herds. Its 2024 Pork Outlook predicts that pork production will grow...

11 Feb 2024

What is Wagyu beef?

Wagyu beef is a Japanese delicacy known for its superb quality, rich flavours, and sumptuous textures. The term ‘Wagyu’ directly translates to ‘Japanese cow,’ and this high-grade beef originates from a selection of Japanese cattle breeds. There are four princip...

09 Feb 2024

AHDB Levy to Rise from April

The pork levy will increase by 20% from April, after Ministers in Defra and the Devolved Administrations approved levy rate hikes acoss AHDB’s four sectors. The increases will see the overall pork levy rate rise from £1.05p/pig to £1.26/pig. The producer and processor ra...

09 Feb 2024

Beef Farmers Fear Carbon Scheme Disadvantage

A County Londonderry farmer has raised concerns about a scheme aimed at reducing carbon emissions from beef cattle. Jonathan Blair is the third generation of his family to work their farmland near Ballykelly. His focus is on regenerative agriculture, mimicking nature and tryin...

09 Feb 2024

Tariff-Free Trade for Ukrainian Eggs and Poultry Extended

Poultry and eggs from Ukraine will be able to be imported to the UK without tariffs for an additional two years, after the government extended a commitment put in place following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine two years ago. The UK was the first country to remove tariffs on al...

09 Feb 2024

Vietnam’s rare ‘dragon chickens’ all the rage for Lunar New Year

HANOI, Feb 8 (Reuters) – Known for their strangely large feet, Dong Tao chicken has for generations been a delicacy in Vietnam and mostly consumed during the Lunar New Year holiday. The rare breed of poultry, also known as dragon chicken, feature a pair of scaly red feet...

08 Feb 2024

Bullying claims at Welsh meat promotion firm

Concerns have been raised about alleged bullying of staff at a meat promotion company overseen by the Welsh government. North Wales Senedd Member Llyr Gruffydd has called for a Senedd committee inquiry into Welsh meat promoter Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales. Six m...

08 Feb 2024

Production manager prosecuted after obstructing FSA inspector

A production manager who worked at Northampton meat company has been prosecuted after obstructing a Food Standards Agency (FSA) inspector. Emma Nakova, of Braunston Close, was sentenced at Northampton Magistrates’ Court on January 17, 2024 after pleading guilty to the obstru...

08 Feb 2024

NZ Meat Exports Take a Hit in 2023

Issues affecting the red meat sector have been laid bare with exports worth 11 percent less in 2023 compared to the year before. New figures from the Meat Industry Association show despite red meat exports growing in volume last year the value was down to $10.2 billion. China ...

08 Feb 2024

McIntyre Meats abattoir to close

A Wensleydale family-run abattoir is to close after 23 years in business. The owners of McIntyre Meats, based near Bainbridge, say they have taken the decision due to increased bureaucracy and rising overheads. The company was started by Martin and Lindsey McIntyre 23 years a...

07 Feb 2024

Dover Officials Conduct Hundreds of Illegal Meat Seizures But No Arrests Made

Dover health officials have conducted at least 584 individual seizures of illegal meat at the British port since September 2022 amid reports that the Government intends to cut funding for border checks, GB News can disclose. Figures obtained by GB News reveal that at least 546...

07 Feb 2024

German meat group Westfleisch adds to pet-food portfolio

German meat giant Westfleisch has expanded its pet-food arm with the acquisition of local specialist The Petfood Company. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. Westfleisch already does business in dry pet food, selling products under its Dog’s Nature brand. The P...

07 Feb 2024

Lab-Grown Meat Removed from Menus

In recent years, three companies in the world received permission to market cultured meat, and offered dishes in a limited quantity in only 3 restaurants. Recently, all restaurants stopped offering these dishes to the public. The industry itself is at a crossroads, and has to ...

07 Feb 2024

China’s Pork Market Rebounds

In a notable turn of events, pork and hog prices in China experienced a resurgence last week, driven by last-minute stockpiling activities ahead of the Lunar New Year. This boost in values occurred against the backdrop of inclement weather conditions, including snow and rain, ...

07 Feb 2024

Australia’s red meat exports surge as US beef production falls

CANBERRA, Feb 7 (Reuters) – Australia’s red meat exports rocketed last year as a plunge in livestock prices made its products more competitive at a time when beef production in rival exporter the United States is falling. Shipments accelerated as the year went on, ...

07 Feb 2024

EU Backtracks on Net Zero

The European Union has caved in to angry protests from farmers, cutting its target to scrap specific agricultural emissions which formed part of the bloc’s net zero drive. A demand to reduce nitrogen, methane and other emissions linked to farming by almost a third has been�...

07 Feb 2024

China opens wide for NZ red meat exports

New Zealand Exporters are wasting no time in getting products on the water after the biggest opening of the Chinese market to meat exports in the best part of a decade. The Ministry for Primary Industries confirmed that four meat plants have been granted new access for chill...

06 Feb 2024

NZ: Celebrating National Lamb Day

New Zealanders are being encouraged to celebrate lamb as the meat that made a nation. February 15 has been designated National Lamb Day as it was on that date in 1882 the sailing ship Dunedin departed from Port Chalmers carrying the first shipment of frozen lamb to London. A...

05 Feb 2024

Dover Demands More Funding for Meat Checks

Dover District Council has called on Defra to scrap its plans to cut funding, worth £3 million, for essential checks for illegal imports at the Port of Dover. In a DDC report, published ahead of a cabinet meeting today, it has emerged that Defra has tried to justify the cut...

05 Feb 2024

Three men sentenced for £318k chicken fraud

Three men who worked together to fraudulently supply a company with more than £318,000 worth of chicken have been sentenced. Darren Williams, 68, and Elliot Smith, 33, worked at the 2 Sisters Food Group in Llangfefni, Anglesey, and supplied the meat to Townsend Poultry. More ...

05 Feb 2024

Argentina’s Beef Boom: A Record-Breaking Year of Exports to China

Argentina is forecasted to increase 5,1% beef and calf production this year, reaching some 3,3 million tons with a domestic consumption of 2.43 million tons, according to the latest report from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). This follows on a record beef e...

05 Feb 2024

Vion Announces Factory Closures

Netherlands-based meat producer Vion plans to close a factory in Germany and offload three others. The pork and beef company said it is adjusting its strategy on its main markets, including “downsizing through divestments and closures” due to increasing competition and the...

05 Feb 2024

Beef recalled due to incorrect use-by dates

A second recall of beef products on the Isle of Man was due to an issue with use-by dates, the Isle of Man’s meat plant has confirmed. The environment department ordered Isle of Man Meats to destroy more products last week, following an investigation after an earlier re...

02 Feb 2024

French farmers up in arms over EU free-trade agreements

French farming unions are taking aim at the European Union’s free-trade agreements, which they say open the door to unfair competition from products arriving from overseas. At a time when the EU is urging farmers to adopt more sustainable – and sometimes more costly – ag...

02 Feb 2024

Record Christmas Meat Sales

Consumer spending on fresh red meat in Great Britain surged to a record £656.2 million in the four weeks leading up to Christmas 2023, marking a significant 9.6% increase compared to the previous year, according to data from Nielsen. This remarkable growth defied the c...

01 Feb 2024

French protests concern lamb exports but trade holds firm

UK lamb prices are holding up, despite major protests by farmers in France who have been blocking roads, which has disrupted British lamb exports heading to the Continent. The GB deadweight lamb SQQ increased by 23.6p/kg on the week to 631.8p/kg, with lower throughputs at abat...

01 Feb 2024

Post-Brexit controls on food and farm imports start

Post-Brexit controls on food, plant and animal imports to Britain from the EU have come into force. Health certificates will now be required on EU goods ranging from cut flowers, to fresh produce including meat, fruit and vegetables. Some industry bodies raised concerns the ru...

01 Feb 2024

British pork exporters on a mission in California

British pork exporters have taken the first steps towards maximising new opportunities in California following the introduction of the controversial Proposition 12 legislation in the state. California’s Prop 12 legislation came into force on January 1, establishing stricter ...

31 Jan 2024

Unlikely Allies Want to Bar JBS From U.S. Stock Markets

A giant Brazilian meatpacking company is facing persistent opposition to its plans for a listing on the New York Stock Exchange because of concerns about corruption settlements, accusations of Amazon deforestation and its growing market share in the United States. The proposed...

29 Jan 2024

Poultry disappears from Russian grocery shelves

In the first weeks of 2024, occasional shortages of poultry were reported in the biggest Russian cities, Yekaterinburg, Chelyabinsk, Ulyanovsk, and Samara, as well as in some parts of Moscow. The authorities insist that poultry is in sufficient supply, while retailers and farm...

29 Jan 2024

Falklands: Abattoir debate resurfaces

The decision by the Falkland Islands Executive Council, and approved by the Standing Finance Committee, to provide additional financing of £1 million to the Falkland Islands Meat Company (FIMCO), has not been without controversy. The additional funding, which also came with s...

28 Jan 2024

New Brexit rules and EU vet shortage put meat imports at risk

A lack of vets in Europe could force meat suppliers in the EU to hold back deliveries earmarked for the UK under new post-Brexit rules set to come in this week, experts have warned. The British Meat Processors Association (BMPA) has concerns that imports may be held back due t...

27 Jan 2024

Australian lamb and mutton exports hit record high

Australian exports of lamb and mutton reached record highs in 2023, with Chinese sales up significantly. Exports of lamb reached 326,014 tonnes, with mutton exports at 209,580t, according to Meat and Livestock Australia (MLA). Tim Jackson, MLA global supply analyst, said: R...

26 Jan 2024

Ireland: Early indicators of a seller’s market for beef

Demand for beef animals art the factories is putting more pressure on the processors to release their grip on the upward only movement on the prices being demanded by the producers. The intake last week of more than 35,200 head was up by 1,500 head compared to the same week la...

25 Jan 2024

China encourages Pig farmers to reduce capacity after price slump

BEIJING: China will “guide” farmers to reduce pig production capacity as it steps up regulation of the industry, the agriculture ministry said on Tuesday (Jan 23), after an aggressive expansion drive led to an oversupply of pigs and heavy losses. Big agribusinesses...

25 Jan 2024

British Pork marketing campaign returns

The £1m TV-led campaign is scheduled to hit screens in February, airing on ITV, Channel 4 and Sky, alongside popular on-demand shows and YouTube. Consumer research showed that following our autumn campaign, more people (+3%) are planning to buy pork when they go shopping, ...

24 Jan 2024

ASF hits Montenegro – 27 European countries now infected

Montenegro has reported its first official cases of African Swine Fever (ASF) on record, as the disease continues to cause difficulties around the world and disrupt the exportation of pork product. The disease, which has been rapidly spreading across Europe since 2007, was ...

24 Jan 2024

Nearly all households continuing to buy meat despite budget squeeze

Huge numbers of the public are sticking with meat despite the squeeze on domestic food budgets, according to consumer research. Some 97 percent of all households are still buying red meat despite the pressures on the family purse, Kantar figures show. Avneet Chana, Kantar’s ...

23 Jan 2024

Local farmers fear Scotch brand is lost in red meat industry

Levy payers have been given the chance to hear how Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) plans to deliver its five-year strategy and make the country the choice for premium red meat. Over a dozen workshops have taken place across the country, with the first levy increase in more than a ...

23 Jan 2024

Russian pork exports to China begin ahead of schedule

The Russian veterinary watchdog Rosselkhoznadzor has commenced registration of the first 3 companies for pork exports to China. The first shipments are due in the next 2 months. Previously, Russia’s deputy prime minister Victoria Abramchenko and the Russian pig farmers anti...

23 Jan 2024

Farmers lead funding bid to save last local small abattoir

Cotswold campaign which has support from nearby farmer Jeremy Clarkson needs to raise £3m in pledges in just days. A farmer-led community group has launched a funding bid to save Warwickshire’s last small abattoir from being sold off to housing developers. The ‘...

23 Jan 2024

Austria, France and Italy lead charge against lab-grown meat

Vienna, Paris and Rome, along with nine other EU countries, are set to argue that meat grown in a laboratory is a threat to “genuine food production methods”, a claim a diplomatic source told Euractiv is “exaggerated and premature”. Lab-grown meat “does not constitut...

23 Jan 2024

UK industry fears disruption from new post-Brexit border checks

LONDON, Jan 23 (Reuters) – British businesses are warning of a new wave of post-Brexit trade disruption because EU exporters are not ready for UK customs changes which start this month, and Britain’s port infrastructure might be unprepared too. Britain left the Eur...

19 Jan 2024

Vion reviews German business portfolio

In line with trends seen across the entire meat industry, Vion Food Group, a leading international producer of meat and plant-based alternatives, is adjusting its strategy in its main markets.  Focus on future-proof performance and sustainability  Vion is reviewing its op...

19 Jan 2024

Israeli company gets green light to make world’s first cultivated beef steaks

An Israeli company has received a preliminary green light from health officials to sell the world’s first steaks made from cultivated beef cells, not the entire animal, officials said. The move follows approval of lab-grown chicken in the US last year. Aleph Farms, of Reho...

19 Jan 2024

Irish beef exports to China to resume immediately

China has reopened its market to Irish beef after exports were suspended late last year due to the detection of an atypical BSE case in a cow during routine Department of Agriculture tests. The announcement was made on Wednesday by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar during a visit to Du...

19 Jan 2024

New legislation banning live exports from Britain moves to Lords

Legislation putting an end to the export of live animals for slaughter and fattening from Great Britain will now move to the House of Lords for further scrutiny. The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill delivers on a Conservative Party commitment to ban the export of live a...

19 Jan 2024

Meat plant liquidator asks court to make directors liable for €2.7 million debts

The liquidator of a meat processing company has asked the High Court to make the firm’s directors personally liable for debts of €2.7 million owed to parties including more than 100 farmers and businesses in the northwest. John Healy, who is the official liquidator of Eden...

19 Jan 2024

Dover officials warning over Defra’s plans to slash funding for illegal meat seizures

Defra is planning to slash funding for vital work in seizing illegal meat imports at the Port of Dover, in a move officials within Dover Council have warned could have disastrous consequences for the UK pig sector. Dover Port Health Authority (DPHA) and the Council are urging ...

19 Jan 2024

China Pork Output Boom Outpaced Demand

China increased its pork output in 2023 to a near-record level. But prices plummeted, indicating the market didn’t want that much pork. Analysts say the industry needs to downsize, but companies backed by friendly banks and officials are content to burn through cash unti...

19 Jan 2024

UK pork imports rise, UK exports plummet

UK pigmeat import volumes continued to increase towards the end of last year, as the EU-UK price differential grew, making imports an attractive proposition to full domestic shortfalls. Pigmeat import volumes totalled 71,300 tonnes in November, up by 1,200t on October, the fou...

19 Jan 2024

Philippines bans poultry imports from Japan

Hanoi (VNA) – The Philippines has imposed a temporary ban on the importation of poultry and poultry products from Japan due to an outbreak of bird flu there, the Philippine Department of Agriculture said on January 18. The department said Philippine Agriculture Secretary F...

17 Jan 2024

Bord Bia to reactivate €1.6 million campaign in China as Irish beef exports resume

The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has confirmed the resumption of Irish beef exports to China after a ten week suspension by the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC). Bord Bia CEO Jim O’Toole has welcomed the lifting of the suspension by ...

16 Jan 2024

Dover: Fears over African swine fever from illegal meat

African swine fever could be brought into the UK in illegal pork meat, officials fear. Port health officials believe they are “barely scratching the surface” of illegal pork meat entering at Dover. African swine fever is currently spreading through Europe and could...

15 Jan 2024

New restrictions in movement of meat products between GB and NI

The movement of meat products between GB and NI will see new restrictions from today, in what the sector has called a further ‘erosion’ of firms’ ability to trade flexibly. It is now no longer possible to bring in bulk meat shipments from overseas to a centra...

15 Jan 2024

Beef exports should feature in Ireland-China talks, says think tank

The head of an Ireland-Asia think tank has said he hopes the ban on beef exports to China will be on the table when Taoiseach Leo Varadkar hosts Chinese premier Li Qiang this week. China’s second most powerful politician after President Xi Jinping will meet Mr Varadkar for b...

15 Jan 2024

Calls for alpacas and llamas to be included in export-for-slaughter ban

A ban on exporting livestock for slaughter and fattening should be extended to protect alpacas, llamas, and deer, Labour has said. Plans to ban such exports from Great Britain for cattle, sheep, goats, pigs and horses are due to be considered by the House of Commons on Monda...

11 Jan 2024

Mexico opens doors for British pork offal

British pork exporters are set to benefit from additional trade with Mexico with the market opening further to include offal with a potential estimated value of £18m over the next five years. The announcement represents another boost for the sector and has come two years afte...

11 Jan 2024

Cranswick acquires pork and poultry value added procressor

Cranswick has announced the acquisition of Froch Foods Holdings, an added value processor of predominantly pork and poultry related products. Froch Foods operates from a dedicated facility in Stourton, Leeds, employing 74 people, and provides specialist processing capabilities...

11 Jan 2024

Australian meat ad labelled ‘best in history’

An Australian meat advertisement making fun of the population’s generational gap has gone viral and some viewers are calling it the “best ad in history.” The advert titled “The Generation Gap” was released on Sunday (7 December) by “Australian Lamb”, which is ope...

11 Jan 2024

Irish beef exports in 2023 estimated at €2.7 billion

The total value of Irish primary beef exports in 2023 is estimated at €2.7 billion, which is an increase of 2% over 2022, according to Bord Bia’s Export Performance and Prospects report for 2023/24. The report was launched yesterday (Wednesday, January 10) by the Ministe...

11 Jan 2024

Bernard Matthews Great Wichingham site may close

Hundreds of jobs have been put at risk after the poultry producer Bernard Matthews announced it was looking to close one of its sites. The company said its factory at Great Witchingham, Norfolk, had become “loss-making and not commercially viable” despite recent in...

10 Jan 2024

Kildare Chilling takeover sees three companies control 90-95pc of sheep kill – CCPC

Ireland’s three main meat processors will have a combined market share of approximately 90-95pc in the purchase of live lambs after Dawn Meat’s acquisition of Kildare Chilling. Despite the ‘highly concentrated’ nature of the market for the purchase of l...

09 Jan 2024

World’s Top Meat Supplier Should Not Join NYSE, UK Lawmakers Urge

(Bloomberg) — A group of UK lawmakers is planning to push the US Securities and Exchange Commission to block listing JBS SA, the world’s largest meat supplier, on the New York Stock Exchange, citing efforts to fight climate change. JBS “has a well-documented history ...

09 Jan 2024

South Korea bans dog meat trade

The slaughter and sale of dogs for their meat is to become illegal in South Korea after MPs backed a new law. The legislation, set to come into force by 2027, aims to end the centuries-old practice of humans eating dog meat. Dog meat stew, called “boshintang”, is c...

08 Jan 2024

Wolverhampton meat factory fire believed to be accidental

Fire investigators of a meat factory fire on the Stafford Road in Wolverhampton believe the fire started accidentally. The fire, which occurred shortly after 2:05a.m on Sunday, January 7, at a meat factory, was attended by 55 firefighters over the course of two days. West Mi...

07 Jan 2024

FSA urged to back introduction of edible insects

Consumers and food safety groups should get over the ‘yuck factor’ and embrace edible insects as part of a more sustainable food system, according to a new report. The UK Edible Insect Association (UKEIA) study, produced with support from the University of Sheffield&...

07 Jan 2024

Firefighters tackle blaze at ScotBeef meat processing unit

Dozens of firefighters tackled a large fire in the early hours at a meat processing factory in Wolverhampton. Crews were called just after 02:00 GMT to the single-story unit occupied by food provider ScotBeef in Stafford Road. West Midlands Fire Service said about 40 firefight...

06 Jan 2024

NPA calls for tougher illegal meat import rules

The National Pig Association (NPA) has called for tougher rules on meat imports after ‘deeply worrying’ quantities of illegal meat were seized at the Port of Dover. It was revealed 57 tonnes of illegally imported pigmeat has been seized at the Port of Dover since Sept...

04 Jan 2024

Argentina lifts restrictions on beef exports

The Argentine Government of President Javier Milei has authorized the export of seven “popular cuts” of beef which had been banned from sales abroad under Alberto Fernández, it was reported in Buenos Aires. The National Agrifood Health and Quality Service (SENASA) greenli...

03 Jan 2024

Ireland: Weekly Cattle Prices 3rd January

Prices reported as quoted or paid to IFA Members. Prices up 5c/kg to 10c/kg. Factories paying above quotes. Steer base €5.00/5.10/kg. Heifer base €5.10/5.15kg. Young Bulls R/U €5.00/5.50/kg. Higher prices for larger and specialised lots. Cows €3.80/€4.60/kg. In-spec ...

03 Jan 2024

AHDB Pork market update: domestic round up

Key points: GB pig prices continue to fall but with a steady decline Production grew for November to 85,200 tonnes but remains below last year More pigs came forward ahead of Christmas, bringing slaughter to 910,500 head Imports grew for October, as EU product remains competit...

03 Jan 2024

Lab-meat dubbed one of 2023’s biggest tech failures

It has been a difficult year for alternative proteins, topped off by a Massachusetts Institute of Technology Review assessment that laboratory-grown meat is one of the worst technology failures of 2023. The billions per year ploughed by investors into the alternative protein s...

03 Jan 2024

Meat Business Women Announces New Territory Partner For Australia

Meat Business Women, the pioneering membership community for women in the global meat industry, is stepping up its presence in Australia with a new three-year partnership with industry affairs specialist Stacey McKenna. The partnership will commence in January 2024 and will ...

02 Jan 2024

AHDB launches new Let’s Eat Balanced campaign

The theme for the vibrant January campaign is ‘THIS and THAT’, encouraging consumers to adopt a sustainable, healthy and nutritiously balanced diet. The campaign adverts will highlight that British beef, lamb, and dairy are natural sources of protein and vitamin B1...

19 Dec 2023

Saudi Arabia gives green light to Paraguayan meat exports

Saudi Arabia’s Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has given the green light to the purchase of beef from Paraguay after a successful audit, the South American country’s National Service for Animal Quality and Health (Senacsa) announced Monday in Asunción. The audit, w...

14 Dec 2023

£4m fund launched to support smaller abattoirs in England

For the first time, smaller abattoirs in England will be able to apply for capital grants through a new £4 million fund designed to boost the sector. Smaller abattoirs are really important. They’re vital to farmers getting their products to market. Smaller abattoirs are a...

13 Dec 2023

Jersey abattoir reopens after Storm damage

The only abattoir in Jersey has reopened earlier than expected after being damaged in Storm Ciarán. The St Helier facility sustained extensive damage and was forced to close in November. The abattoir will be operating on extra days to make sure all animals are processed in ti...

13 Dec 2023

Applications open for new £4 million fund to support smaller abattoirs

The government has today (Wednesday 13 December) launched the £4 million Smaller Abattoir Fund to boost the sustainability and efficiency of red meat and poultry smaller abattoirs across England. The smaller abattoir sector has an important role in maintaining British food se...

04 Dec 2023

Bord Bia secures EU funding for an organic beef and lamb campaign

Bord Bia has won two new EU contracts to promote organic EU beef and lamb and a separate campaign to promote EU mushrooms, as announced by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The combined value of the two campaigns is €5.7 million over three years. This compr...

30 Nov 2023

Australian sheep flock hits record high

Australia is reporting a record sheep flock, 78 million head, which means the price of mutton has collapsed, as low as 80 US cents per kilo, and many farmers are culling or not mating their ewes to cut costs and implement a workable sustainable food/flock relation ahead of the...

29 Nov 2023

Welsh secure new lamb deal with Japan

Sushi, Tempora, Gyoza, Welsh Lamb…that could be a gourmet menu in Japan as early as next week after the announcement of a new export deal by Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales (HCC) at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair today. “I can tell you today that Welsh Lamb is on its way ...

23 Nov 2023

AHDB: Beef market update for October

GB deadweight cattle prices varied throughout October. The all-prime average price started the month at 479.2p/kg and stabilised before a slight drop of around 2.5p for the last two weeks. Overall cow prices fell with some large drops through the month, down by 30p throughout...

23 Nov 2023

AHDB: Lamb market update for October

The liveweight SQQ averaged 255p/kg in October, up by just under 4p since September. Liveweight SQQ prices ended the month as they started, averaging 252p/kg for the week ending 4 November, having peaked at 258p/kg in the second week. The deadweight SQQ averaged 564p/k...

21 Nov 2023

Jersey abattoir closure a ‘massive blow’ for farmers

The only abattoir in Jersey will remain closed until mid-December, the island’s infrastructure minister has said. The abattoir in St Helier was forced to close after sustaining extensive damage during Storm Ciarán. The government said there was “a large amountR...

16 Nov 2023

NI beef farmers to benefit from all-Ireland protected status

Irish grass-fed beef is to be granted special recognition by the European Commission for its characteristics and geographical origin. The commission is in the final stage of granting Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, which has been passed with no objections. The ...

14 Nov 2023

Brazil projected to claim top spot for poultry exports in 2024

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) predicts that global exports of chicken meat will increase by 2.91% to at least 14 million tons next year. Brazil is expected to dominate this market with a projected 36% of worldwide exports, while the United States, the worl...

13 Nov 2023

Irish Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e October 29th 2023

Cattle & Beef Throughput: Up until the week ending October 29th 2023, cattle throughput in DAFM approved plants totalled 1,462,398 head, a 3% decrease from the corresponding period last year. Prime cattle have been presented for slaughter a few weeks later that normal th...

10 Nov 2023

Irish beef exports to China suspended after BSE case

Beef exports from the Republic of Ireland to China have been suspended after a case of atypical BSE, commonly known as mad cow disease, was detected in a cow. Irish broadcaster RTÉ reports that the case was confirmed on Friday after tests were carried out by Irish Department ...

10 Nov 2023

China’s economy back in decline as pork prices continue to plummet.

BEIJING, Nov 9 (Reuters) – China’s consumer prices swung lower in October, as key gauges of domestic demand pointed to weakness not seen since the pandemic, while factory-gate deflation deepened, casting doubts over the chances of a broad-based economic recovery. T...

25 Oct 2023

Strikes end at Browns of Kelloholm as pay deal agreed

A series of strikes at a meat processing firm in southern Scotland is over after workers secured a 13.2% pay rise. Unite union members at Browns in Kelloholm carried out several rounds of industrial action in August and September. It said workers had now secured an “exce...

20 Oct 2023

Jobs at risk as Avara factory closure announced

More than 300 jobs are at risk as poultry firm Avara has proposed closing down its Newent factory. Avara said the decision comes after facing significant inflationary pressure over the past two years. It hopes the closure will result in fewer, better-invested facilities and mo...

20 Oct 2023

Irish Sheepmeat Prices – w/e October 15th 2023

Quotes: Base quotes for lambs from the major processors have held steady this week with 600-610c/kg (plus QA bonus) available. Market demand for lamb continues to be subdued in key export markets with inflation, higher levels of imports from non-EU markets and competition fro...

20 Oct 2023

Irish Beef Prices – w/e October 15th 2023

Throughput: Up until the week ending October 15th 2023, cattle throughput in DAFM approved plants totalled 1,381,842 head, a 3% decrease from the corresponding period last year. Prime cattle have been presented for slaughter a few weeks later that normal this autumn due to ...

28 Sep 2023

China permits Russian pork supplies

MOSCOW. Sept 28 (Interfax) – China has granted Russia permission to supply pork to the Chinese market following ten years of Russia seeking entry to the country’s large pork market, the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor...

21 Sep 2023

Webinar will offer tips on exporting red meat to Canada

Red meat businesses will have the opportunity to gain valuable insight on exporting to Canada through a webinar scheduled for October 19th. The event will offer a comprehensive overview of key considerations, including tips for navigating route to market, compliance, and custo...

14 Sep 2023

Minerva set to become Brazil’s second-largest beef processor

Minerva Foods has made a major move to strengthen its position in the beef market with the acquisition of cattle slaughtering and deboning plants from Marfrig for BRL 7.5 billion (approx. $1.53 billion). This significant deal includes 11 plants and a distribution center in Bra...

11 Sep 2023

Irish Cattle & Sheep Trade & Prices w/e September 3rd 2023

Cattle & Beef Throughput: Up until the week ending September 3rd 2023, the overall cattle throughput in DAFM approved plants has totalled approximately 1,165,586 head, a 3% decrease from the corresponding period last year. Cattle are coming forward later that normal d...

11 Sep 2023

U.S. clears Smithfield’s acquisition by China’s Shuanghui

(Reuters) – The U.S. Committee on Foreign Investment has cleared the way for Shuanghui International Holdings Ltd’s proposed $4.7 billion acquisition of Smithfield Foods Inc. The deal, which would be the biggest purchase of a U.S. company by a Chinese firm, still needs...

07 Sep 2023

Swine fever detected in Sweden for the first time

STOCKHOLM, Sept 6 (Reuters) – A dead wild boar in Sweden has tested positive for African swine fever, Sweden’s Veterinary Institute said on Wednesday, the first such case in the country. African swine fever is harmless to humans but is highly contagious and deadly ...

05 Sep 2023

Irish Cattle Trade & Prices

Cattle & Beef Throughput: Up until the week ending August 27th 2023, the overall cattle throughput in DAFM approved plants has totalled approximately 1,100,616 head, a 3% decrease from the corresponding period last year. Cattle supplies are expected to see some seasonal i...

05 Sep 2023

France makes fresh bid to ban meat names for plant-based food

France has revealed revised proposals to ban the use of meat-related names, such as “steak” and “spare ribs,” for plant-based food produced in the country. The intention is to avoid “misleading claims” that some meat alternatives can make. A...

05 Sep 2023

Uruguay to resume meat exports to Mexico

Uruguay announced the resumption of meat exports to Mexico after three years, with 22 slaughterhouses authorized to sell beef and sheep meat to that country for the next two years, it was reported in Montevideo. Mexico’s National Service of Agrifood Health, Safety, and Q...

31 Aug 2023

Shares take a tumble as investors beef about Minerva’s acquisition

SAO PAULO, Aug 29 (Reuters) – Shares in South America’s largest beef exporter fell sharply on Tuesday as investors digested Minerva’s BEEF3.SA move to acquire 16 slaughterhouses from rival meatpacker Marfrig MRFG3.SA for 7.5 billion reais ($1.53 billion...

29 Aug 2023

Marfrig and Minerva agree to major moves in the global meat markets

Marfrig and Minerva the two protein production and processing giants, from Brazil, and which dominate a significant share to the global market have agreed to concentrate in different spheres of the market, in a deal that has shaken the whole industry. Meatpacker Marfrig has ag...

29 Aug 2023

Brazil’s Marfrig sells abattoirs to Minerva in $1.5 bn deal

SAO PAULO, Aug 28 (Reuters) – Brazilian meatpacker Marfrig has agreed to sell 16 slaughtering plants to rival Minerva for 7.5 billion reais ($1.54 billion) in a deal that will significantly change its profile in South America, according to a securities filing. With the ...

26 Aug 2023

Sheep Meat Trade between the UK and Australia: Current State and Future Outlook

The UK and Australia signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on June 15, 2021, that allows for the free trade of various goods, including sheep meat. The FTA permits sheep meat to be traded without tariffs between the two countries, making it easier for UK consumers to enjoy Austr...

27 Jul 2023

Pressure on GB beef market as prices continue to fall

NFU Livestock Board chair Richard Findlay shares his concerns for the UK’s beef market following a sharp downturn in the price of British and Irish beef. There is growing concern that we’re seeing sustained falls in the GB beef price. In the last 8 weeks we’ve seen o...

24 Jul 2023

Hide and skin values remain under pressure

Prices for cattle hides and sheepskins are struggling amid lower demand and finished leather sales remaining uncertain. After a notable period of stability, UK heavy cattle hide values have taken a dip in recent weeks. The supply chain continues to be squeezed by increased cos...

20 Jul 2023

The Meatex Masterclass – A Tour de Force Through the Various Meat Cuts!

Welcome, meat enthusiasts and budget-conscious gourmands alike, to the most tantalizing and educational experience you’ll ever embark upon: The Meatex guide to the different cuts of beef, lamb, pork, and poultry. Get ready to explore the succulent universe of meat cuts, ...

20 Jul 2023

City Corporation’s vision for a Food School takes shape with introduction at Billingsgate Market

A new pilot food school located at the historic Billingsgate Fish Market opened its doors to schools from Barking and Dagenham, as an introduction to the City of London Corporation’s vision for a permanent food school in the east London borough. The City Corporation is devel...

19 Jul 2023

New chair of Isle of Man Meats company appointed

A new chair of the Isle of Man’s meat plant has been appointed after a period of uncertainty. Nigel Davis takes over from Clare Barber MHK who has held the position on an interim basis since November. She stepped in following a damning audit last year, which found that t...

18 Jul 2023

British gov’t lifts restrictions on Brazilian meat

British authorities have decided to lift the reinforced controls on Brazilian meat, Brasilia’s Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Agriculture announced Monday, according to Agencia Brasil. The measure was adopted nine months after a technical team visited the South Americ...

13 Jul 2023

Brazilian beef industry adopting to lower prices for Chinese demand

Beef consumption in China is lower than what Brazilian exporters had anticipated for the post-pandemic period, according to a report by Datagro. Data compiled by the consultancy from China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs reveals that beef prices have fallen below...

04 Jul 2023

China both a target and a risk for NZ exporters

WELLINGTON, June 23 (Reuters) – As New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins prepares to lead a trade delegation to China seeking greater access for both the country’s primary exports and emerging sectors such as gaming, producers are diversifying away from their bi...

23 Jun 2023

BLOG: Borough Market: An Adventure into London’s Food Haven

Southwark’s Borough Market is a testament to the culinary heritage of London. As the city’s oldest fruit and vegetable market it has a longstanding history going back over 1,000 years. It thrived as a wholesale market until the declining trade of the late 20th century open...

22 Jun 2023

US Regulator Allows First Sales Of Lab-Grown Meat

Two companies, Upside Foods and Good Meat have received final U.S. Department of Agriculture approval to sell lab-grown meat, paving the way for the nation’s first-ever sales of the product. With the approvals, the United States will become the second country after Si...

22 Jun 2023

EU Pork On A Lean Streak As Higher Standards Drive Up Costs

Record pig prices could have spurred farmers like Carole Joliff to expand their herd, but costly livestock regulations, flagging demand and spreading swine disease point instead to a long-term decline in the European Union, the world’s top pork exporter. “We’...

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