149: Covid-19 special: How is coronavirus affecting the pork market?

In this episode, we hear from two of our market analysts about the impact of coronavirus on pork markets, both in the UK and around the world.

Demand

Pork demand has fared better than some of the other proteins, with an uplift in supermarket sales compensating in some way for the loss in the foodservice market.

However, fresh pork sales have dropped in more recent weeks and we are beginning to see a build-up in stocks of shoulder and belly, much of which would usually go into foodservice.

Global prices

There has been a fall in hog futures and farm gate prices in the US, and the loss of foodservice has had a much bigger impact on the US market than it has in the UK. A number of major US processing plants have also closed, which is putting pressure on their market. Despite these issues, there doesn’t seem to be a shortage in pork, so when the processors and foodservice markets re-open, there could be an oversupply. This will probably result in competition for the Chinese market.  

UK and EU processing plants

On the whole, processors have remained open and there have been very few reports of difficulties.

Outlook for the economy

The outlook for the economy remains uncertain and no one knows what ‘normal’ will look like after the pandemic. However, based on China’s experience, there probably won’t be a sudden resurgence in eating out once restrictions are lifted.

More information

For information, guidance and support during this pandemic, visit our dedicated web page: ahdb.org.uk/coronavirus

We’re tracking GB retail sales of pork, beef, lamb, dairy and potatoes on a weekly basis to help the industry understand how shopping behaviour is changing. Find the latest data at: ahdb.org.uk/consumer-insight-coronavirus-weekly-retail-tracker

For the latest industry data, analysis and insights visit our pork market page: ahdb.org.uk/pork/pork-markets

On 22 April, we launched a new pulled pork campaign to support sales of pork shoulder. Find out how you can get involved: ahdb.org.uk/pulled-pork



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