Meat prices rise with 3.3% in Europe

A recent analysis has shown a significant increase in meat prices across the EU as of February 2024. Compared to February 2023, there has been a 3.3% rise. This increase has affected various types of meat, with pork experiencing the most significant price hike.

Leading the surge, pork prices rose by 5.7%, followed by lamb and goat meat, which saw an increase of 4.5%. Beef and veal also didn't escape the upward trend, recording a 3% rise. Interestingly, poultry showed a contrasting pattern, with a price drop of 1.6% compared to last year.

Sustained inflation trend

The trend of inflation in meat prices has been noticeable for some time. Between April 2022 and March 2023, meat experienced its highest annual inflation rates. February 2023 marked a peak with prices 17.3% higher than the previous year. Prices for beef, veal, lamb, and goat meat stayed below a 15% increase over the past three years. However, poultry (+24.4% in November 2022) and pork (+18.8% in February 2023) exhibited more significant fluctuations.

Situation across EU countries

Price increases varied by country within the EU. Bulgaria recorded the highest rise at 8.2%, followed by Romania at 7.7% and Croatia at 7.1%. On the other hand, three countries experienced a decrease in meat prices: Czechia (-5.1%), Finland (-2.2%), and Denmark (-0.6%). This highlights the diversity in economic developments regarding meat prices among EU nations.

Ec.europa.eu

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