The British poultrymeat industry has called for the government to take action to address mounting supply chain pressures in the face of conflict in the Middle East.
The British Poultry Council has warned that supply disruptions are leading to increased cost pressures that will push up prices for consumers.
Energy and fuel inflation have been voiced as a particular “vulnerability”.
Feed costs – which account for most of the cost of production – are also expected to rise, driven by an increase in fertiliser costs.
It also voiced concerns that uncertainty over the supply of key vitamins, minerals and amino acids, which are “vital for health and welfare”, would lead to tighter supply on shelves.
“Taken together, these factors are creating sustained upward pressure on the cost of poultry production,” the council said. “While some increases may be absorbed by the industry, others will inevitably have to be passed on to consumers.”
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The group warned that short-term shocks were exacerbating long-term problems of resilience in domestic production.
With consumer demand for poultry on the rise, the industry has warned that planning barriers continue to limit growth and increase reliance on imports.
“Global events are once again challenging the resilience of our domestic food production,” said Richard Griffiths, CEO of the BPC. “With chicken as half the meat this nation eats, we take our role seriously in ensuring people can access affordable food.
“The promise by government of a sector growth plan for poultry takes on a new urgency and we call on ministers to accelerate its delivery.”
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