Imports' Stranglehold On UK Pig Market

Latest import figures from the British Pig Executive (BPEX) shows an increase of 35 per cent since 2001. And more than 70 per cent of the pork and pork products arriving are produced under animal welfare conditions now illegal in the UK.

Pork and bacon prices in British supermarkets fell in January and February, as the 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. Late last year and early this year, imported pork chops and leg roasting joints averaged 20-23 per cent less than home produced.

"Imported bacon is also being used for deep cut price promotions, at 6 per cent to 30 per cent below equivalent UK product."

The only reason British sales hold up is that consumer research indicates shoppers' concerns about overseas animal welfare.

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Source: The Scotsman

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