NFU President Minette Batters said:
“This year’s Great British Beef Week comes at a crucial time for our country and our farmers. Not only are we exploring life outside of the EU and new market opportunities abroad, we’re in the run up to the world’s biggest climate conference, COP26, which is being hosted in the UK later this year.
“We have the credentials to be world leaders in sustainable red meat production – to set the global standard for high welfare, climate-friendly beef and help build the British food brand - which is founded on these values - across the world. British farmers already have an ambition to become net zero by 2040 and our beef production is already incredibly sustainable, with greenhouse gas emissions from UK beef already less than half the global average.
Calling for public support
Minette went on to explain that if we are to achieve this ambition we need both public and political support and must demonstrate why the government should invest in promoting the British brand both at home and overseas. It’s also crucial, she said, that clear and honest labelling is in place, not just in retail but also out of home, in order for the public to make informed buying decisions and support British beef.
“As farmers, we know the quality of our products. We know how we care for our cattle. We know that our businesses form the backbone of rural economies and communities. And we know how British farming methods help protect the environment, reduce our climate impact and maintain our iconic countryside for everyone to enjoy. So let’s use this week to share the success story that is British beef and demonstrate why British really is best.”
More from the NFU
- Read more about building a world-class British food brand in the NFU’s Levelling up rural Britain report
