The supermarket is planning to switch its supply by the end of the year, and will build on its commitment to the British industry, already sourcing 100 per cent of its fresh pork and more than 90 per cent of its bacon from the UK, reports Farmers Guardian.

The move comes as the industry faces one of the most challenging times in its history with nine out of 10 pig farmers considering quitting for good as farmers currently lose around 312 on every pig produced

Natalie Mitchell, Senior Meat Buyer at Waitrose, said: “British pig farmers produce some of the world’s best pork – and they need our support now more than ever before.

“It would be an absolute travesty if Britain were to lose one of its finest farming industries at a time when Britain is sourcing large quantities of bacon from abroad.

“Our decision to source all of our own label fresh pork, bacon and sausages from the UK sends out a strong vote of support to British pig farmers who are experiencing very difficult trading conditions .“

Stewart Houston, chairman of the National Pig Association and Bpex said: “This is very good news for the British pig industry and Waitrose is to be congratulated for the move. The tangible support Waitrose has shown for the British pig industry is most welcome in these difficult times.

View the Farmers Guardian story by clicking here.