Beef market update: Increased UK cattle slaughter in October as trade remained strong

UK beef production totalled 92,000 tonnes in October, a significant increase of 19% from September. This was also up on October 2023’s levels by 12% (+10,000 tonnes) with forecasted production expected to reach 933,000 by the end of the year. Prime cattle slaughter grew in October by 17% to 204,000 head, representing a 13% year-on-year increase compared to 2023 and driving growth in overall beef production. Additionally, cull cow slaughter grew by 32% in October compared to the previous month to just under 70,000 head. Although largely a seasonal rise, this figure is still 6,000 head above October 2023 and a 9% year-on-year rise. A key driver of this has record Northern Irish kills of 47,000 head in October, an increase of 13,000 head from the previous month. Reports suggest as well as strong prices, carbon reduction schemes are likely adding incentive to slaughter. Stable year-on-year beef volume sales and market reports suggesting encouraging festive demand are supporting prices ...