Supermarkets should show their support for livestock farmers by ensuring they do all they can to stock British beef and lamb on their shelves, the NFU’s livestock board chairman said today.
Alistair Mackintosh was speaking following the publication of Eblex’s Beef and Lamb Watch figures for October. The figures represent the amount of chilled and fresh beef and lamb seen on supermarket shelves during the month rather than sales.
Mr Mackintosh said that while some retailers had 100 per cent British beef and lamb on their shelves he would like to see others stocking more and showing commitment to British producers.
"It’s fantastic to see the ongoing commitment from Morrisons, who source 100 per cent British beef and lamb throughout the year, and to see that Co-op, M&S and Waitrose were all showing 100 per cent British beef and lamb on their shelves in October.
"However, it is very disappointing to see that both Asda and Tesco are not stocking 100 per cent British lamb in October. I think it is unacceptable that major retailers are placing foreign lamb on the shelves during the autumn months when domestic supply is plentiful. It is also disappointing to see the level of foreign beef stocked on the shelves of both Asda and Sainsbury’s.
"British lamb is produced to some of the highest standards of quality and safety in the world. Consumers recognise this quality and British producers are ideally placed to meet domestic demand especially during the autumn months. If some of the retailers can source 100 per cent British beef and lamb then I don’t see why they all can’t.
"Pledges from supermarkets to stock as much British beef and lamb as possible send out the correct messages to producers to invest in production. The beef industry has seen a declining national herd and this kind of commitment would help secure domestic supply."
