UK beef consumption shows increase

UK consumers demand for beef has been exceptionally strong during January.

The rise in sales comes despite retailers increasing the average price charged to consumers by 1%, or GBP4/ kg (US$6). This increase saw expenditure on beef grow by 8.4%, or GBP13 million (US$19 million), when compared with the same four-week period last year. The increased has been driven by stronger demand for all beef cuts, with the exception of roasting joints.

There was a 26% increase in demand for stewing beef and a 17% increase in demand for frying and grilling cuts. The colder weather was one of the main drivers behind the stronger demand for the stewing cuts.

According to the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) in Northern Ireland, beef sales fuelled by UK demand, were 28,000 tonnes during the four-week period ending 24 January - 8% higher than the same period last year.