Meat and Livestock commision's study indicates growing demand for quality meat
UK - A growing sector of "foodies" is opening up new opportunities for meat producers in the south west, according to new research.Contradicting the widely held perception that people are cooking less in the home, a study by the Meat and Livestock Commission has revealed a growing passion for local, fresh and high quality food.
The study, commissioned by Meat South West, revealed the British beef market grew by 1.5% in the year to August, with lamb up 2.9% and pork up 2.7%. The south-west market dramatically outperformed the rest of the country, with growth rates of 7% for beef, 8% for lamb and 4% for pork.
The fastest-growing sectors were value and premium ranges, and with few farmers able to compete in the value sector by further cutting costs, the ideal option was the premium market, said Chris Lamb, MLC head of consumer marketing.
Source: FWi