The Belgian Meat Office explains why the country is an influential player in the European meat industry, and why its suppliers are celebrated for their remarkable efficiency, tailored services and dedication to food safety.
Belgium may be a small country in Europe, but it is a big player in the European meat industry. Belgium’s efficient and modern meat processing industry is particularly known for its flexibility. After all, meeting the customer’s needs is what it’s all about.
Belgian meat suppliers are first and foremost family businesses who strive for maximum added value for their customers. They are service-minded and go out of their way to unburden their customers, and take away as much administration as possible from them so they can trade without complexity.
They have transformed their small scale into significant benefits thanks to their specialisation, their tailor-made service and their pioneering work in food safety.
From the production of feed to veterinary services, to the slaughterhouses and cutting plants—each next link in the chain is as important as the previous. That’s why in every part of the process, you’ll find professionals who are experts in their field, and who are passionate about their job.
Belgian meat suppliers also offer customised products and that is what distinguishes them from their competition. The possibilities are almost endless. The diversity of companies and the competition between them results in a high degree of professionalism, whilst preserving the individual character of each company.
During the first six months of 2023 Belgium exported 17,978 tonnes of pork meat to the UK, which is already a 55% increase compared to the first six months of 2022 and represents 10% of the total import volume. The export of carcasses during the first five months of 2023 increased by 195% compared to 2022.
The Belgian Landrace is known for its high return. It combines a high percentage of lean meat with a high carcass weight. The export of boneless cuts (30%) and belly (14%) also increased while pig fat decreased with 12%. Nevertheless, the total export to the UK during the first five months of 2023 increased with 37% compared to 2022.
Belgian Meat Office can be contacted via the details below:
- Joris Coenen, Manager: joris.coenen@vlam.be
- Sharon Lagast, Export Adviser: sharon.lagast@vlam.be
- Elyne De Bruycker, B2B Communication Expert: elyne.debruycker@vlam.be
