This week is Great British Beef Week (21st to 27th April), and the message of this year’s campaign is there has never been a better time to buy British beef and back Britain’s farmers. The campaign sets out to support the consumer in buying with confidence, so that you can be confident in the quality and source of the meat, as well as understanding more of the health benefits of the beef you buy. The campaign also seeks to raise awareness of the work of the RABI (Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution).
It is clear that the Great British Beef Week, organised by Ladies in Beef, could not have come at a better time. At a time when confidence has been shaken, this campaign hopes to highlight the Red Tractor logo, which when demonstrated on packaging, means shoppers can be sure that the beef is born, raised, processed and packed in Britain to the highest quality standards. Buying Red Tractor logo beef means you can't buy or taste better.
The national campaign has the support of the big supermarkets, as well as the independent butchers too. I took a visit to George Debman Family Butchers in Ipswich, to meet George and find out more.
It is clear that George is passionate about his trade, and about ensuring he offers the finest quality meats, locally sourced, and at a competitive price. During the time I was talking to George, the shop was busy with customers, and it is clear that George has high regard for his customers, and his attention and care was evident. Equally he is well respected by those who buy their meat from George, and many have been customers for many years at the Ipswich shop and regard George as a friend.
Not only is George able to advise on the different cuts of meat, he also is able to advise of the best ways of cooking each cut. He and his wife, Mary have even put together a recipe book, which includes their favourite meals, from meat dishes to deserts. In aid of the Children’s Cancer Unit, University College Hospital in London, this is just one example of the way in which this local butcher ‘puts back’ into the community.
I was surprised to learn of the wide range of additional services offered by George Debman Family Butchers, including BBQ packs and hog roasts – George will even come out and cook it for you! Now that’s a service you don’t get from your average local butcher. If you want to find out more about George Debman Family Butchers, check out the profile on the Best of Ipswich: George Debman Family Butchers
As part of the Great British Beef Week campaign people are asked to show their support by hosting a roast for family and friends, colleagues or community groups during the week, and to asking guest to support RABI's work with farming families in financial difficulty. To support this for those in the Ipswich area, George Debman Family Butchers are offering half price roasting beef. To take advantage of this great offer, download the voucher on the Best of Ipswich, through the following link: Half price British Beef
For more information check out the Great British Beef Week website. There is a wealth of information, as well as great recipes, such as beef canapés and St George's Day Roast Rib of Beef. So let’s get involved, and support local farmers and butchers, and let’s show we have confidence to buy British beef.
By Natalie Chaplin
