Blog
UK Beef Imports Rise as Irish Supply Dominates, but Market Shifts Loom
Beef imports into the UK have seen a notable increase in 2024, with Ireland emerging as the dominant supplier. However, a variety of factors have helped offset the impact of this rise, particularly through positive trends in exports from Great Britain (GB). According to Hybu Cig Cymru-Meat Promotion Wales’ (HCC) latest analysis, the first five months of 2024 have revealed a complex and dynamic beef market.
Government Delays Controversial 'Not for EU' Labelling Scheme Amid Industry Concerns
The UK government has postponed its controversial plans to require "not for EU" labels on all meat and dairy products sold across Britain, following warnings from industry leaders about potential disruption to the food supply chain. Initially set for implementation in October, the scheme is now under review due to concerns about its impact on producers, suppliers, and consumers.
Iceland Revolutionises Mince Packaging for Longer Shelf Life and Reduced Plastic Waste
Iceland is stepping up its efforts to improve sustainability by introducing vacuum-packed beef and pork mince across its entire range. The new airtight packaging aims to extend shelf life, cut down on plastic waste, and improve efficiency in transportation. Following a successful 12-week trial in 50 UK stores, Iceland is now rolling out the vacuum packs to over 1,000 locations nationwide.
The Changing Face of the UK Beef Market
In 2023, the UK beef market experienced a slight dip, with volumes declining by 1% compared to the previous year, according to the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board's (AHDB) annual beef outlook report. This decrease continues a trend seen since 2020, though forecasts for 2024 show a potential recovery of 1%. However, beef volumes will still remain 5% below pre-pandemic levels.
Revolutionising Foie Gras: Gourmey Seeks Approval for Cultivated Meat in the UK and EU
Food startup Gourmey has applied to UK regulators for authorisation to market its cultivated foie gras. The company has also submitted applications in Singapore, Switzerland, the USA, and with EU authorities.
UK Adolescents' Diets Dominated by Ultra-Processed Foods, Study Reveals
A recent study by the Universities of Cambridge and Bristol reveals that adolescents derive nearly two-thirds of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods (UPFs). By analysing data from four-day food diaries of almost 3,000 adolescents collected in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey from 2008/09 to 2018/19, researchers found that on average, 66% of adolescents' energy intake came from UPFs during this period.
Exploring the Hottest Trends in Food and Drink for Summer 2024
A new artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning tool has identified five emerging flavour trends to look out for during the summer of 2024.
Top 10 Priorities for the Meat Industry: AIMS Sets Agenda for the Next UK Government
The meat processing industry has presented its top ten priorities for the upcoming UK government in light of the elections on 4th July.
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) has outlined a comprehensive set of proposals addressing the industry's key concerns, ranging from reforming veterinary control systems to shielding British consumers from substandard imports.
A Landmark Victory for Animal Welfare: The Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Act
The UK has taken a monumental step forward in animal welfare with the Royal Assent of the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Act. This new law mandates that animals must be slaughtered domestically, effectively putting an end to the exportation of live animals for fattening and slaughter.
Heineken’s Bold Move to Revitalise the UK Pub Scene
In a bold and ambitious move, Heineken UK is set to invest a substantial £39 million into revitalising the British pub scene. This investment will see the refurbishment of hundreds of older venues and the reopening of 62 previously closed pubs, aimed at attracting a growing customer base accustomed to working from home.
Celebrating Success: Welsh Lamb Exports Surge Post-Brexit
In the wake of Brexit, the Welsh lamb industry has reason to celebrate as it continues to experience remarkable growth in both volume and value of exports. Recent data from HMRC has unveiled impressive double-digit increases, marking a significant boon for the Welsh economy.
Maximising Equipment Longevity: Practical Tips for Catering Machinery Care Between Services
In the heart of every thriving kitchen, the hum of catering machinery is the soundtrack of efficiency. To ensure these culinary workhorses continue to perform at their best between professional servicing intervals, adopting a proactive approach to care is paramount. Here are practical tips that catering businesses can implement to safeguard their equipment, enhance longevity, and maintain peak performance.
Denmark's Landmark Climate Lawsuit Against Pork Producer
In a groundbreaking ruling, Denmark's high court has delivered a blow to Europe's largest pork producer, Danish Crown, in the nation's inaugural climate lawsuit.
Driving Red Meat Sales: The Power of Optimised Labels
A recent study conducted by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), in collaboration with Basis Research, sheds light on the pivotal role of packaging and labelling in influencing shopper behaviour towards red meat products.
Consumers Persist in Red Meat Purchases Despite Economic Pressures
In the face of economic challenges, British consumers remain steadfast in their affection for red meat, with enjoyment emerging as the primary motivator behind sustained sales.
The Implications of "Not for EU" Labels: A Blow to UK Supermarkets and Consumers
In a bid to address the concerns of unionists in Northern Ireland, the UK government has announced plans to mandate "not for EU" labels on meat, dairy, and plant products sold in supermarkets across the country. However, this move has sparked debates about its potential impacts on prices and the broader fight against inflation.
Adoption of AI Within the Food & Drink Industry Increasing
In the swiftly evolving realm of technological adoption, the UK food and drink industry has emerged as a pioneer in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into various job roles, as indicated by a recent study conducted by PR agency Tank. Positioned as the fourth fastest industry to embrace AI, this development marks a significant stride towards enhancing efficiency and innovation in the sector.
Navigating Challenges: Rabobank's Insight into the 2024 Animal Protein Sector
Rabobank, a leading food and agribank, has sounded a caution for the animal protein industry in 2024. The sector's growth is expected to slow down, leading to tighter profit margins for producers who must now adapt to increased prices and production costs.
Shaping the Bakery Landscape: Gen Z's Impact on Trends
The emergence of Gen Z, those born between 1996 and 2020, is significantly shaping the food and beverage industry, with a notable influence on the bakery sector.
Record Chicken Deaths in UK Spark Concerns Among Animal Welfare Advocates
Official figures have unveiled a distressing truth about the UK's chicken industry: over 80 million chickens didn't make it to slaughter weight last year, marking the highest mortality rates in a decade.