EU production grows for beef and falls for lamb in Q1 2024

European beef and sheep meat production and demand trends for the first quarter of 2024 were mixed, with some countries experiencing increases while others saw declines. Beef production rose by 4% to nearly 1.25 million tonnes, led by Italy and Poland, with France remaining the largest producer despite an 8,200-tonne decline. Slaughter numbers increased, with a notable decrease in France but stable numbers in Germany, indicating heavier carcase weights. Sheep meat production fell by 4% to 95,000 tonnes, primarily due to significant declines in Spain and Greece, although Germany saw a minimal increase. Total European slaughter dropped by 6%, with notable decreases in Italy and Greece, leading to higher sheep prices peaking in late April before declining. Despite high meat prices, demand has remained relatively resilient, with some countries like Germany showing an increase in beef demand, while France experienced a decrease in both beef and sheep meat demand. The European Commission forecasts a slight decrease in total EU beef and lamb consumption for 2024 due to high prices and supply constraints, but expects long-term growth in sheep meat consumption due to its cultural and religious significance.