The article highlights the significant increase in red meat prices compared to chicken in South Africa, with beef mince rising by R12.10 per kilogram and boerewors by R14.56.Consumers are shifting to cheaper proteins like poultry, but even chicken prices have increased.

Industry experts attribute the price hikes to factors such as animal diseases like foot-and-mouth disease (FMD), China's suspension of SA beef imports, and rising production costs.Farmers face higher expenses for feed, veterinary care, and fuel, while disease outbreaks and climate challenges further strain the sector.Despite these pressures, retail meat prices continue to climb, with beef, lamb, and pork seeing annual increases.The agriculture ministry has introduced new FMD control measures to mitigate economic losses.

The article underscores the growing disparity between consumer costs and farmer profitability, emphasizing the need for sustainable farming practices amid rising costs.