Commenting on the publication a spokesperson from HCC, said:
‘HCC acknowledges the EAT-Lancet Commission’s report. Although well intentioned the recommendations are potentially lacking nuance, balance and are overly generalised.
Red meat provides a concentrated source of vital nutrients that support overall health. That’s why official government guidelines recommend a daily intake of 70g. Current UK consumption levels are already below this benchmark. Calls to reduce intake further risk unintended negative effects on nutritional wellbeing.
Global warming by definition is a global issue and Wales plays a role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Welsh climate, land and extensive grass-based production, makes it particularly suitable to produce livestock in a comparatively advantageous way from an environmental viewpoint.
Welsh farmers can produce quality red meat sustainably with a lower than average global environmental impact. Well-managed livestock farming systems don’t just provide food, but also wider benefits both to the environment (from improved soil health through to carbon storage) along with the socio-economic benefits that Welsh rural communities rely on.’
