Gildernew encourages local red meat industry at AGUNA

Agriculture Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA is attending the world-famous ANUGA food exhibition in Cologne, Germany, in support of our local red meat industry.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) at ANUGA on Monday the Minister said: “The recently-published Red Meat Task Force Report identified real challenges for our local red meat industry. One of its strategies recommended increased contact with core customers and so it is great to see several local processors taking a stand here at ANUGA, promoting directly to potential customers.”

Ms. Gildernew added: “I wish to thank the LMC for all their efforts in bringing local farmers to ANUGA and for organising our presence here at the event. We have a first class product and one that we can be proud of. It is very encouraging to see here amongst the stands from South America, our wonderful grass-fed beef and lamb being showcased on an international stage.”

Anglo Beef Processors (ABP), Dunbia, the Foyle Food Group and Linden Foods are all exhibiting at ANUGA for the first time since the lifting of the beef ban and now have real opportunities to trade globally. In addition the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) has arranged for six farmers/producers to attend the show. Their presence at this trade event is also consistent with the recommendation in the Red Meat Task Force Report for the development of efficient supply chains.

Notes to Editors:

1. The previous ANUGA event held in 2005 attracted 6,294 exhibitors from 108 countries and over 160,000 business visitors from 156 countries.

Dale Farm and Linwoods are also exhibiting at ANUGA

Invest NI has also organised a Sectoral Trade Mission involving over 20 local food processing companies.

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