The NFU is calling on retailers to help sheep farmers deliver new season Red Tractor assured British lamb to consumers.
NFU livestock board chairman Charles Sercombe, a sheep farmer from Leicestershire, said: “Retailers can ensure that shoppers have access to fresh British lamb by making their sourcing commitments clear to allow farmers to plan ahead. British farmers will gladly produce early season lamb if the demand is there.”
According to the NFU, currently only Aldi of the leading supermarkets will be selling 100% home-grown fresh lamb this Easter. The retailer has also joined the list of organisations that have signed the NFU’s Back British Farming Charter.
“The move by Aldi to back British farming is great news for consumers wanting home-grown lamb, and shows real support for British livestock producers,” Sercombe said.
“Peak lambing season is March through to May. Sheep farmers can produce lambs earlier provided they get sufficient notice and clear market signals. However, we still have plenty of high quality lamb coming to market right now ready for the Easter trade.
“Many shoppers will now be thinking about their Easter Sunday meal, which I hope will be fresh Red Tractor assured British lamb. For those farmers who take the risk to lamb early, the support of the British public for their product is essential. I urge consumers to choose fresh home-grown lamb this Easter.”
Photo credit: AHDB Beef and Lamb.
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.