Morrisons slammed for using foreign chicken
A decision by Morrisons to move away from stocking 100% fresh British poultrymeat has been described as “extremely disappointing” by the NFU.
It is understood the supermarket chain is importing poultrymeat from within Europe and marketing it under Morrisons’ exclusive tertiary brand Hemsley’s.
Within the past year, Morrisons has introduced new standards for its own-brand British chicken, says the NFU. As a result, British producers have invested in environmental enrichments such as perches and windows in poultry houses. In addition, all producers are meeting the requirements of the Red Tractor Scheme, which will not be required by Morrisons for this imported meat.
Red Tractor producers have to stock live birds at a maximum 38kg/sq m, compared with 42kg/sq m on the Continent.
NFU poultry board chairman Duncan Priestner said: “We understand the difficulties retailers are faced with in a competitive market, where consumers are demanding a variety of price levels to suit their needs, but unfortunately that comes at the cost of animal welfare standards and British poultrymeat.
“British poultry producers have committed and invested in their businesses to supply Morrisons so it is extremely disappointing that Morrisons has made this decision. It means fresh British chicken will be now be displaced by cheaper produce from EU countries.”
But Morrisons insists it remains a strong supporter of British poultry farmers. “We buy more meat direct from British farmers than other British supermarkets,” said a spokesman. “We are the only major British supermarket to run our own abattoirs that support British farmers. Of course, in these tough economic times we have to offer customers the choice of cheaper alternatives, but we can be clear that our commitment to British farmers is more significant than any other retailer.”
It is understood that the Hemsley’s range may still be filled with British poultrymeat on occasion, but foreign meat may be used if it is cheaper. The packs will also carry country of origin information.
The NFU said it hoped that Morrisons would review and reverse its decision at the earliest opportunity.
Morrisons to raise basic chicken welfare standards
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