Asda's fresh beef to be sourced from farms in UK and Republic of Ireland during time of 'price headwinds'

Beef from the Republic of Ireland (ROI) is currently around 20 per cent cheaper than British.

A number of Leeds-based Asda's competitors are also stocking beef from ROI and British beef as price headwinds are impacting across the industry, a spokesman said.

An Asda spokesman said: “We know that it is important to our customers that the beef on our shelves has been produced to high welfare standards and is affordable.

"Unfortunately, the price of British beef has risen and whilst we continue to work hard to keep prices as low as possible for our customers, these increases are significant. All fresh beef in our premium Extra Special tier is and will remain 100% British and all of our fresh beef will be sourced from farms in the UK and Republic of Ireland.

"This allows us to provide quality products which caters to all customer budgets.”

Asda stressed the decision was not to unilaterally move away from sourcing British, but to have a blended approach with ROI sourcing that allows Asda to deliver the best value for customers at a time when pressures on their budgets is increasing.