Horse Meat Find Seen Boosting British Cattle Prices

The discovery of horse meat in processed beef products in Europe is poised to boost record prices for British cattle, as shoppers pay closer attention to labels and buy more expensive products, independently audited to prove their origin.

There’s no evidence yet that U.K. consumer demand for beef slowed after reports by some supermarkets that horse meat was found in ready meals meant to contain beef, said Nick Allen, the executive director of the Agriculture & Horticulture Development Board’s beef and lamb unit, EBLEX. Instead of switching to other cuts like pork or chicken, customers will probably spend more money for higher quality beef at meat counters or shop at independent butcher shops, he said.