With UK grocery retailers under pressure to meet sustainability goals on all key sectors, including meat, obtaining quality and responsibly sourced beef is a challenge – one that Ireland is determined to meet.
As the UK grocery sector faces growing pressure to meet ambitious sustainability goals, the race toward net zero and carbon efficiency is intensifying – compounded by the challenges of a complex supply chain and rising consumer demand for responsibly sourced, high-quality products.
With UK beef production in decline, securing a reliable supply has never been more critical. That’s why strong trade partnerships with suppliers who offer measurable sustainability credentials are essential.
Prioritising quality, taste and nutrition for shoppers
As customer expectations evolve, ensuring beef suppliers deliver on quality, taste and nutrition is essential. With Irish beef from Ireland currently representing the majority of the UK’s beef imports [Bord Bia], retailers are in a strong position to balance assurance with these expectations – and can continue to do so by taking into account the following:
● Quality assured meat
With sustainability continuing to play a key role in shopper habits, retailers can offer their customers beef that is supported by assurance programmes and sustainability initiatives. Cattle are raised grazing outdoors for an average of 220 days each year, a system that contributes to the tenderness, marbling, and flavour associated with Quality Assured Irish Beef – qualities all recognised at the 2024 Steak Challenge, where Irish Beef received 62 medals, including 11 golds, the highest medal haul for any country.
● Recognising the health-conscious shopper
Nutritionally, beef remains valued by UK shoppers, with 90% of UK shoppers viewing beef as an excellent source of protein [Meat Shopper Monitor]. Ireland’s Quality Assured beef is rich in protein and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12 and iron – making it relevant for health-conscious consumers seeking high-protein diets.
● Offering alternative cuts
Value-added beef (beef that has been processed to offer more than just raw meat – for example, flavour enhancements or ground beef) exports contributed €245m in 2024 [Bord Bia]. This subcategory is an opportunity to meet the growing consumer demand for meal solutions and increase the value from traditionally lower priced cuts and trimmings.
Sustainability programmes in practice
A number of initiatives have been developed in Ireland to measure and improve sustainability outcomes across farming and food production.
● Origin Green: At the heart of Ireland’s sustainability efforts is Origin Green – the world’s first national food and drink sustainability initiative. With over 61,000 farmers and 330 leading companies involved, the programme drives measurable improvements across the supply chain, offering science-led support to help farmers meet buyer KPIs. By partnering with Origin Green members, retailers can confidently offer products with verified sustainability credentials that align with the growing consumer demand for food and drink choices that are good for the planet.
● AgNav: a joint initiative between Bord Bia, Teagasc and ICBF, offers a practical, science-led tool to monitor and improve on-farm sustainability – tracking emissions, resource use and grassland management. The tailored farm plans can identify opportunities to improve both environmental performance and business resilience, further supporting their products sustainability credentials and therefore appeal for retailers.
Together, these programmes support the progress needed to meet evolving sustainability targets throughout the supply chain.
Quality beef – traced from farm to fork
With consistency and quality top of mind, all beef from Ireland is produced under strict quality assurance and traceability schemes for the food industry. These schemes ensure all exports meet stringent environmental and animal welfare standards, which enhances its appeal in international markets like the UK. The schemes are built on best practice in farming and processing, current legislation, relevant industry guidelines and international standards.
To give consumers and retailers peace of mind on where their beef comes from – all animals are fully traceable from birth to processing. This is achieved via double-ear tags, a unique passport and the national computerised Animal Identification and Movement System (AIMS) traceability system.
Pioneering the future of more sustainable beef
As demand grows for food that balances quality, nutrition and sustainability, beef production faces the challenge of adapting while maintaining consumer trust. Irish farmers will continue to focus on carbon efficiency, traceability and maintaining sustainable practices. By partnering with these producers, the UK retail, manufacturing, wholesale and hospitality industries are well-positioned to champion a greener, more responsible future
To explore how Irish beef can help you meet your sustainability targets, visit irishbeef.co.uk
Headquartered in Dublin, Bord Bia supports the national and international ambitions of Irish food, drink and horticulture businesses through its highly focused organisational structure and its network of offices in EMEA, Asia and the USA.
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