Union officials attend Dunbia supply chain

The committee completed a successful tour of both the Dunbia primal and retail packaging plants giving them a key insight into the processing sector. 

A major area of discussion at the meeting was around how consumption of beef can be increased in the UK and ensuring that farmers are producing the type of cattle which best fit the market spec. 

UFU members highlighted that farmers will produce the type of in spec cattle that the market wants if a payment structure is in place which is incentivising for producers. 

Long term contracts were suggested as an optional mechanism to help reduce volatility for farmers and provide greater certainty around farm income.  

Transparency in the sector was also discussed and the need for processors to be more open with farmers about what happens after animals have been sent for processing with supply chain tours one example of how a more trusting relationship can be built.

Pictured are members of the UFU beef and lamb committee on their visit to Dunbia this week.