In the face of economic challenges, British consumers remain steadfast in their affection for red meat, with enjoyment emerging as the primary motivator behind sustained sales.

In a bid to address the concerns of unionists in Northern Ireland, the UK government has announced plans to mandate "not for EU" labels on meat, dairy, and plant products sold in supermarkets across the country. However, this move has sparked debates about its potential impacts on prices and the broader fight against inflation.

In the swiftly evolving realm of technological adoption, the UK food and drink industry has emerged as a pioneer in incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) into various job roles, as indicated by a recent study conducted by PR agency Tank. Positioned as the fourth fastest industry to embrace AI, this development marks a significant stride towards enhancing efficiency and innovation in the sector.

Rabobank, a leading food and agribank, has sounded a caution for the animal protein industry in 2024. The sector's growth is expected to slow down, leading to tighter profit margins for producers who must now adapt to increased prices and production costs.

The emergence of Gen Z, those born between 1996 and 2020, is significantly shaping the food and beverage industry, with a notable influence on the bakery sector.

As the global demand for protein surges and the seafood supply faces an imbalance, the alternative protein market is emerging as a potential solution. While plant-based seafood holds a competitive edge in terms of pricing compared to beef, overcoming consumer resistance remains a significant challenge.

For food and drink manufacturers, navigating a labyrinth of regulations has become an everyday concern. The introduction of intricate new rules concerning safety, health, and trade is a recurring challenge.

The government passed the Environmental Act in 2021, which will come into effect later this year. Although an official date is yet to be revealed, businesses will be required to separate food waste from their general waste and have it collected separately.

Sainsbury’s has made further changes to the way they are packaging their meat. This time, improvements have been made to their chicken products.

A groundbreaking innovation in plastic packaging for raw meat has emerged from the endeavours of a researcher at Swansea University. This novel approach eliminates the necessity for non-recyclable pads within packaging trays, revolutionising the recyclability of the entire packaging.