Red meat production assured

Koos van der Ryst, chairperson of the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation, outlines the prospects for red meat during the COVID-19 outbreak, and the excellent industry-government co-operation.

Shortly before and after the announcement of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) lockdown, South Africans went on a panic-buying spree, snapping up vegetables, fruit, bread, dairy products and meat.

Red meat flew off the shelves and has remained popular during the lockdown, as consumers are well aware of its nutritional benefits. It has a high protein content and is rich in minerals, vitamins and vital fatty acids.

In addition, the lockdown has shifted the focus to family meals around the table and the concept of slow food. Red meat is ideal for these purposes.

The value of consumer education programmes at this time is obvious, and recipes can play a major part here. Various projects are being conducted to promote local lamb, and the South African Feedlot Association is promoting the consumption of beef. These are ongoing projects.

steady supply

Consumers can rest assured that adequate amounts of red meat (beef, mutton and goat meat) will be available, as 95% of South African-produced red meat is consumed by the local market. Producer prices are currently relatively stable with a slightly decreasing trend, which means there is no reason for retail prices to increase dramatically.

Approximately 1,2 million black households own livestock, which is crucial for income and food security. At the time of publishing, the distribution and sales of the more affordable ‘fifth’ quarter and offal in the informal sector is problematic, and attempts are being made to improve the situation. Despite this, exports of red meat are continuing, as South Africa’s ports are functional.

government

Minister of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development Thoko Didiza has appointed COVID-19 task teams to manage the pandemic within the agriculture sector. These teams, which manage economic, communication and social aspects, are doing an excellent job, and the value of organised agriculture and agribusinesses is being emphasised. The sector’s co-operation with government is highly encouraging.

Moreover, the departments of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development; Environmental Affairs; Trade and Industry; and Health have all shown creative thinking to solve the problems generated by COVID-19. There is an urgency to address issues, and relationships are being built that will be of great value in the future.

The Red Meat Producers’ Organisation (RPO) is also thankful to input providers, agribusinesses, abattoirs and auction agencies for their support at this time.

Red meat producers are privileged to be able to live on their farms and focus on their businesses. Auctions are continuing, and it is encouraging to see how the industry is self-regulating.

In general, red meat producers have small but stable workforces, which makes it easier for them to look after the wellbeing of their farmworkers.

The RPO is fully functional both nationally and provincially, and conducts virtual meetings where necessary. It has continued to provide leadership to staff, and traceability projects and the management of foot-andmouth disease are ongoing.

prices

Red meat producer prices are dictated by the performance of the economy, and the RPO is concerned about the negative impact of the pandemic on the economy and the demand for red meat. However, we are thankful for the high demand and the normal production conditions in large parts of the country. Crop estimates are positive, which may lead to a lower maize price, with associated lower feed price.

The impact of the pandemic is likely to have a major impact on the exchange rate, which may render the global red meat industry more competitive. As in the past, the RPO will maintain a strong focus on exports, as this will help to improve the prospects of the local industry.

Unfortunately, the pandemic has already had a severe impact on the prices of skins and hides, with the hide price currently as low as R0,10/kg.

We are in the midst of a very difficult time and some of our producers have experienced frustrations, as I myself certainly have. Food security is now of prime importance, however, and I want to thank every farmer for his or her contribution.

Finally, I urge all our farmers to look after their own health, and the health and safety of their families and farmworkers.

• Phone the Red Meat Producers’ Organisation on 012 349 1102/1103, or email rpo@lantic.net.

Koos van der Ryst