Beef exports from the UK soared to 35,712 tonnes in the first eleven months of 2006, up from just 9000 tonnes the previous year, according to figures from the Meat and Livestock Commission.

Competitive beef prices since the ban lifted in May saw demand for UK beef increase across Europe, with the Netherlands accounting for 11,998 tonnes, more than a third of the UK’s export market.

Within the UK market, beef sales in 2006 increased by 1% compared with the previous year.

Beef mince purchases, which accounted for 45% of sales, increased by 6%, while sales of roasting and stewing cuts also increased.

The overall value of household beef prices increased by 2% in 2006, thanks to a larger volume of beef being purchased and a 1% increase in the retail beef price.

Source: Fwi