A recent survey of food businesses in the UK has highlighted growing concerns over the future of the abattoir sector. The survey, which received responses from 1,300 businesses, revealed that as many as 88% of respondents view their closest abattoir as essential or important to the success of their business. Furthermore, 64% of businesses stated that the availability, or lack of availability, of a local abattoir had impacted their future business plans.
One of the primary concerns identified by the survey was the loss of small abattoirs in the UK at a rate of 10%, which creates a “fragile system vulnerable to collapse”, according to the survey report. Journey times have subsequently increased, with some animals forced to travel over 200 miles to slaughter. This not only causes unnecessary stress to the animals, but also drives up food miles and carbon emissions.
The survey found that many remaining smaller abattoirs are increasingly busy and difficult to book into, forcing some businesses to close or limit their operations. Respondents identified a number of potential solutions, including the establishment of cooperative-owned abattoirs or the use of mobile abattoirs. Interestingly, 33% of those surveyed said they would collect hides and skins if they had access to further processing facilities.
The importance of a diverse network of abattoirs throughout the UK cannot be overstated, said Megan Perry, head of Policy and Campaigns at the Sustainable Food Trust. Eleanor O’Brien, managing director of the National Craft Butchers, warned that without government support, the small abattoir sector will continue to stagnate, leading to severe consequences for animal welfare, farmers and supply chain diversity and resilience.
The government has previously announced funding for the sector, but this funding must be accessible, broad, and with a long timeframe, according to Perry. The continued delay in confirming financial support is having a devastating impact on businesses, said Adrian Steele, organic farming advisor at the Soil Association. Steele also stressed the critical role that local abattoirs play in supporting local food economies and the government’s own ambitions for local nature recovery.
The future of the UK’s abattoirs remains uncertain, with reports earlier this year suggesting that most small abattoirs in the UK could face closure within five years without government support. It is imperative that the government acts now to provide the certainty that the industry needs to sustain a viable network of abattoirs across the country.