Lamb prices rise in UK ahead of Ramadan

Producer lamb prices reached an average of £7/kg for the week ending 24 February, up 37% (189p/kg) on ​​the same week last year.

Limited lamb supplies have forced processors to increase purchase prices, with UK estimates that slaughter rates are down around 8% year-on-year to less than 200,000 HEAD per week. This is due to a smaller lamb crop in 2023, as well as adverse weather conditions.

Meanwhile, this year's lambs are suffering from rising cases of Schmallenberg's disease, which could limit further production.