Don't allow 'inferior' meat products

Supplier calls for inquiry

Stop substituting the quality and quantity of Manx red meat with 'inferior' products  - a message to Isle of Man Meats from one major Island supplier.

A&J Quality Butchers has issued a statement saying it has 'major supply issues', and can't fulfil customer needs.

Earlier this year, Shoprite reported a similar problem over the course of a number of months.

A&J director, Andrew Gibbs, says a public inquiry is required to address the lack of locally reared meat available in the market.

He says the company can't fulfil orders coming through and has no choice but to leave customers hanging with little or no notice.

The company insists Isle of Man Meats is supplying it with inferior meat to replace 'premium' cuts - a compromise it won't serve to customers.

Mr Gibbs says the 'taxpayer supported' industry should prioritise requirements of Manx residents over the 'significant' amount that's exported.

That, he says, means he's being forced to import premium quality meat - adding that customers here expect better, and so does he.