The National Pig Association’s (NPA) GammonWatch survey has revealed a disappointing amount of British Gammon on supermarket shelves in the run up to Christmas.
“Indeed, we urge them to redress the balance immediately, by making a special effort to support British producers across all pork categories as we enter the difficult New Year period, when the market is going to be particularly challenging this year.”
The survey, which took data from 150 retailers in 68 towns and cities across the country, revealed that the worst performer was Asda with British product making up only 8 per cent of its gammon shelf-facings.
Chairman of the NPA, Richard Lister commented: “We recognise there is a glut of pork in the European Union at present, and the strength of sterling makes it available over here at an attractive price. But if retailers want the convenience of a thriving British pig sector on their doorstep, producing reliable supplies 52 weeks of the year of a quality-assured, traceable, high-welfare product, then it's essential they make a special effort to support British pig farmers, particularly at present when an increasing number are selling pigs at a loss.”
Waitrose, M&S and the Co-op, however, have been found to be selling 100 per cent British gammons.
This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.