Frozen fish and meat sales suffer a hit as fresh meat enjoys a 3% increase

Fresh meat sales have had a 3% jump in retail sales for the start of this year, with frozen fish and frozen meat taking a hit among Irish grocery consumers, Bord Bia has advised its food sector industry clients.

Peter Duggan of Bord Bia’s strategic information services unit has informed his food sector clients frozen poultry is the notable exception to consumers’ marked swing away from frozen meats and readymade meals in the 12 weeks to St Patrick’s Day.

“Frozen fish sales were back by 14%, frozen meat was back 11% and frozen prepared meals were back by 19% compared to the corresponding period last year,” Mr Duggan told subscribers to Bord Bia’s Food Alert. “Consumers have begun to switch to alternative protein sources, with frozen poultry sales 60% higher, and fresh poultry sales 11% higher, with turkey being the standout performer within this category.