Due to population growth, 9% more beef is consumed in the UK than a decade ago. Furthermore, per capita consumption remains relatively flat with any reduction yet to show in annual per capita figures. With the UK population set to continue growth of almost 5% by 2030, the forecast is for beef markets to match this with a 4% expansion over the same period.

Sheep-meat (mostly lamb) consumption has seen a gradual decline in the UK for some time. This is likely due to limited cooking versatility and a perceived higher price point. Although consumption has trended down 10% in the last decade, it is still much higher in the UK on a per capita basis than in many other developed nations, a legacy of the historic importance of the wool trade within Britain’s economy. Today consumers benefit from a high-quality product being readily available locally.

Overall meat consumption per head has increased as, on average, Britons consume over 61 kg of animal protein annually, up from 56 kg a decade ago. Productivity gains in the pork and poultry sectors have reduced their costs of production making them more affordable sources of meat protein, leading to an increase in overall meat consumption and displacement of some beef and lamb within consumers’ baskets.

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