Consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety, welfare standards and sustainability of the food we eat.

They also want to know that whatever diet they choose to follow, their food will be safe and nourishing, but not at the expense of the planet.

British meat has a built-in promise that these concerns have been addressed because here in the UK, we have the perfect growing conditions. Our plentiful rain and lush grass along with some of the highest welfare and quality standards in the world mean that British meat is amongst the most nutritious and environmentally sustainable meat on the planet.

Unlike other countries that rely on clearing rainforest or intensive feedlots, we simply turn grass and rain into one of Nature’s superfoods. This is why the origin of your food matters.

Helping businesses navigate new sustainability demands

The British Meat Processors Association is helping its members navigate the legislative, political and attitudinal challenges that lie ahead. We work with members’ sustainability teams and provide them with advice and guidance on emerging livestock welfare standards, associated sustainability considerations, research initiatives and policy development across a range of livestock species.

We conduct benchmarking and review standards and practices relevant to end-to-end animal welfare, environmental sustainability, climate change and other emerging issues. And, we also engage with relevant NGOs to influence programs, protocols and policies.

Influencing policy through real-world experience

Even with some of the most environmentally efficient farming systems in the world, the red meat sector recognises that more can be done to minimise its environmental footprint. And our members are already rising to the challenges posed by new government policy, both here and in our export markets.

But any government policy must be based on sound science and a detailed understanding of the complexities, strengths and fragilities of our farm to fork food system.

The British Meat Processors Association works to advocate the support of government in the development of policy that balances the need for good environmental management with the key strategic requirement for a secure domestic food supply chain. We also sit across multiple groups and committees that are currently shaping government policy with their recommendations. This means we’re able to intervene if we think decisions could have unintended consequences that aren’t being fully understood.