UK faces changes to poultry marketing regulations

Defra has launched a consultation on amending poultry meat marketing regulations, which currently covers England and Scotland although it is hoped the policy will ultimately be GB-aligned.

National Farmers Union Poultry board chair James Mottershead said the union will support the government’s proposals, saying: “These moves will be welcomed by the sector as they ensure that poultry producers are not left at a competitive disadvantage.”

2 parts of the consultation

The consultation, which launched last month (October) is split into 2 parts. The first focuses on the removal of current restrictions that mean free-range poultry can only be labelled as such for 12 weeks after the introduction of avian influenza-related housing measures. The second covers the removal of the need for optional indicator certificates to accompany imported poultry meat.

The changes would put English poultry meat producers on a level playing field with the rest of the EU and would benefit producers if an early housing order comes into force.

Poultry trade

In July 2024, UK poultry exports accounted up to £18.7 million and imports accounted up to £642,000, resulting in a positive trade balance of £18 million. Between July 2023 and July 2024, exports of the UK’s poultry have increased by £3.58 million (23.8%) from £15.1 million to £18.7 million, while imports increased by £462,000 (257%) from £180,000 to £642,000.

The consultation closes on 16 December.