May 3, 2006
UK's pork imports on the increase
UK has increased its pork imports by 35 percent since 2001, putting British produce under greater pressure, according to the latest trade report by the British Pig Executive (BPEX).
The report also stated that more than 70 percent of pork and pork products that came into the country were produced under conditions which would be illegal in the UK; this is a rise of 66 percent from 2004.
Despite rising prices elsewhere in Europe, pork and bacon prices in British supermarkets fell in January and February, as retailers pressured processors to supply pig meat more cheaply.
BPEX chief executive Mick Sloyan said imported pork is being sold increasingly through retail outlets and mostly at discounted prices. For example, imported bacon is selling on average at 6-30 percent below the equivalent UK product.
The report also voiced the general consumer viewpoint that pork that does not meet UK legislation standards should not be imported.