The overall month-on-month inflation figure has moved to a negative overall position of -0.16% (-£0.02kg) with three of the four categories monitored, Beef (-0.45%), Pork (-0.56%) and Chicken (-0.43%) showing falls. With the exception of lamb (+0.58%), February’s prices have by and large been flat.

When looking at the same period 2025 verses 2026, prices have risen by 11.99% (£1.32kg) with beef, and in particular lean minced beef, leading the way up £2.55kg (31.91%) and roasting joints up £3.95kg (+30.48%).

Pork (+1.84%) and chicken (+0.43%) continue to be the affordable switch for consumers looking to make their weekly food budgets go further.

Tony Goodger, head of communications at AIMS, explained: “Of course, developments in the Middle East, especially if the conflict runs for any real period of time, could impact on the price of meat and poultry.

“One scenario may see Brazil, the largest supplier of poultry to the Middle East and one of the world’s largest beef suppliers are likely looking to relocate exports into markets such as the EU, where they are now assisted by the Mercosur agreement. This could drive down prices for European consumers which may lead to more EU exports, especially Irish Beef, entering the UK.”