Lamb springs back on to the menu

THERE HAS been a major increase in the popularity of lamb this year, with household purchases up by almost 16 per cent for the first 12 weeks of the year when compared with the same period last year.

Some 2,257 tonnes of lamb were bought between January 1st and March 20th.

James Murphy, national sheep chairman with the Irish Farmers’ Association, said these consumption figures were “very positive” and came on top of positive figures for all of last year. There was a 4 per cent growth in lamb consumption for the 52 weeks up to March 20th.

Mr Murphy said some of the growth was explained by strong promotional activity of lamb by the major Irish retailers, and a vigorous campaign by Bord Bia.

The Irish figures are in contrast to some other European markets, where lamb consumption has come under pressure.

“The very high quality of lamb and its unique natural meat image, together with the positive work of celebrity chefs, has contributed significantly to increasing consumer awareness of the value, quality and convenience of lamb,” Mr Murphy said.

There are 30,000 sheep farmers in the State.