As COP30 continues, the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has drawn attention to a growing risk for UK meat processors. Our reliance on Brazilian imports for key inputs, especially soy and to a lesser extent beef is exposed to increasing climate extremes.
Around £243 million of Brazilian soy entered the UK in 2024, representing roughly 60% of UK soy imports, and about 90% of UK-imported soy is used in animal feed. Brazil has faced severe droughts, flooding and extreme heat (including a drought in the Amazon lasting 18 months) which have already impacted crop yields and infrastructure. This demonstrates that disruptions in supply are no longer merely theoretical.
Given that climate impacts are already pushing food-price inflation (ECIU notes beef and coffee have been “hit by extreme weather… pushing up prices over four times faster than others”) UK processors need to review supply-chain resilience, diversify feed sources, and consider procurement strategies that reflect increased climate risk in Brazil and similar sourcing countries.
The UK has had its fair share of climate related issues for our domestic production but it isn’t just about local UK climate risk. The overseas supply chain matters, especially when importing from countries with worsening climate resilience. As we begin to rely more heavily on imported food, companies must engage with suppliers on their climate-adaptation credentials, and build contingency plans for feed-input and supply disruptions.
We are the UKs largest trade body for the meat industry and provide expert advice on trade issues, bespoke technical advice and access to government policy makers
We are proud to count businesses of all sizes and specialties as members. They range from small, family run abattoirs serving local customers to the largest meat processing companies responsible for supplying some of our best-loved brands to shops and supermarkets.
We are further strengthened by our associate Members who work in industries that support and supply our meat processing companies.
We are the voice of the British meat industry.
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