UK processors of slicing size ox and lunch tongues for serveover deli counters are gearing up for seasonal demand. Deli counter sales are reported to be buoyant despite the bad weather, but the main selling season is not expected to get under way until May. This is when consumers are looking forwards to real salad weather. Richard Burdekin, md of Zwanenberg Food Group UK, said: "A cold snap can leave consumers lingering on winter food. The recent sunshine is ideal for paving the way to the changeover to summer eating." Raw beef tongue prices continue to be steady, however supplies are reported to be only just sufficient. UK kill rates are expected to rise marginally. While UK processors used to be able to depend on supplies from North America ­ but the continuing ban on hormone developed beef means this source remains off the supply books. Raw pig tongue blades continue to be plentiful in supply, although there is less domestic product available due to lower kill rates. Sales of finished product lunch tonges in sliced form over the serveover are very dependent on promotional activity during the early part of the season. However, processors report that promotional slots are not so freely available, in view of the trend towards lower everyday pricing. {{PROVISIONS }}

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