Meat
Meat Inflation Rises as Beef and Lamb Prices Surge
Meat Inflation Rises as Beef and Lamb Drive Price Surge
Sharp Increases in Beef and Lamb Costs
Meat inflation rises steeply in April 2025, driven by significant hikes in beef and lamb prices, according to industry data.
The Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS) Meat Inflation Tracker, using ADHB’s supermarket data, revealed an 11.53% annual rise.
Monthly meat inflation also jumped by 3.48%, indicating accelerating pressure on fresh meat prices across UK supermarkets.
Tony Goodger from AIMS explained the spike stems from 12 months of consistent price hikes in beef and lamb cuts.
Beef prices rose 20.96% year-on-year, while lamb followed closely at 19.92%, driving the overall market upward dramatically.
This marks a continued trend where red meats carry the brunt of overall meat pricing pressure, especially during seasonal peaks.
Pork and Chicken Offer Some Relief
While beef and lamb soar, British pork cuts like belly slices and mince have slightly decreased in price compared to last year.
Chicken legs, in particular, offer stability—remaining unchanged in April and even dropping 2.03% year-on-year, said Goodger.
Consumers seeking better value should consider these options during this period of volatile meat pricing trends.
Seasonal Demand Set to Push Prices Higher
Warm weather and two bank holidays are expected to boost demand for barbecue meats, putting more strain on retail prices.
As households turn to grilling and outdoor meals, pork and chicken could see short-term demand spikes in coming weeks.
Retailers are likely to adjust pricing strategies quickly in response to weather-related consumption changes across the country.
Broader Food Inflation Trends Persist
In a related development, BRC-NIQ’s Shop Price Index shows food inflation hitting its highest mark in nearly a year this month.
Essentials such as dairy, meat, and produce have become increasingly expensive, tightening budgets for many UK households.
Meat inflation rises alongside these broader pressures, making affordability a growing concern for everyday consumers.
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Meat Inflation Rises as Beef and Lamb Prices Surge
