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National Pig Association THE VOICE OF THE UK PIG INDUSTRY NPA is active on members' behalf in Brussels & Whitehall, and with processors, supermarkets & caterers – fighting for the growth and pros-perity of the UK pig industry.

Shoppers who pick up a packet of ham at random now have a less than a one-in-twelve chance of it carrying the Quality Standard Mark (the independent mark that proves it comes from a British pig farm.)

Bacon doesn't fare much better. Shoppers have only a one-in-four chance of the pack they pick up carrying the Quality Standard Mark.

Even fresh British pork is slipping. Shoppers who fail to check may inadvertently be buying imported meat.

"It is important to check for the Quality Standard Mark because British pigs are raised to significantly higher welfare standards than apply in most other countries," said PorkWatch chairman Richard Lister, a Yorkshire pig producer.

"This second survey of 400 stores has brought considerable disappointment. It shows retailers are locked in a battle for market share and consumers are the casualty, because ninety percent* of them don't want imported pork if it falls below British standards."

PorkWatch advises shoppers to check carefully for the Quality Standard Mark when buying pork, bacon and ham.

Full report: Porkwatch.co.uk

Source: National Pig Association - 28th June 2004