October Market Information

Dairy Highlights:

Dairy has been a volatile market now for a few years, due to several different influences. The most important being that farmers are demanding an adequate price for their products in the midst of rising costs of core items such as feed, fuel and more. The cost for farmers to raise and care for their animals as well as produce our dairy products has increased substantially over the last few years. No longer can they accept a deficit for their product, which is why we have seen a number of price increases.

We are dedicated to supporting and protecting our British Farmers in particular, as we value their contribution to our food chain, and want to be able to give back to them as they do to us. As one of our supply partners wrote during this increase:

“Ensuring that we maintain a price that is both realistic and competitive is critical, if our farmers are to have a sustainable business. We must protect our farmers to ensure continuity of supply if we are to maintain a reliable supply chain for all our customers. ”

We are seeing a big hike in Bulk Butter, due to a shortage in Cream, therefore creating a knock-on effect where there is now a shortage of butter being made. This means that demand is surpassing supply, which is impacting Butter Blocks, Portion and Dishes.

As mentioned above, due to there being less Cream available in the market, we are experiencing a significant price increase due to be rolled out shortly, as demand has not decreased with the stock level.

Sadly this doesn’t stop at Cream and Butter. Milk is also experiencing an increase, albeit less than cream, all of which is starting in October 2024.

Please reach out to your nominated account manager for pricing queries within your account.

Fish Highlights:

Whilst there is still a reduction in Wild Cod as of last month’s report, Farmed Cod is a fantastic alternative. We’re able to protect wild populations whilst still enjoying the increasingly popular protein.

Another farmed protein that you should try to incorporate into your menu this month is Farmed Arctic Char. The delicately flaky pink fish has a beautiful nutty flavour, that adds an interesting element to any dish. Often used as an alternative to Salmon.

One flatfish that is gaining popularity over its sustainable credentials is Cornish Sole (AKA Megrim). Whether served on the bone or as the core ingredient in fishcakes, Cornish Sole is a protein that was traditionally exported to our friends in the EU as their tastes were more diverse. However, it’s making a strong comeback!

As always, Plaice is also a great flatfish alternative. Their soft, flakey flesh makes them an incredibly versatile protein to suit most dishes.

Another, perhaps more price-conscious, option for October would be Mackerel. Not only is it a beautiful-looking fish, but a versatile one too. The dark, oily meat is rich in Omega 3 and packs a punch of flavour into any recipe.

Finally, what is a cold autumnal day without a masala Monkfish. Haven’t tried it? Give it a go this October and tag us in your creations. You won’t regret it!

Fresh Produce Highlights:

October is a favourite within United Fresh, and not only because the colours resemble our logo…

The typically cooler weather encourages us to utilise seasonal items such as vibrant Squash and Pumpkins in our dishes. Alongside plenty of beautifully knobbly, interesting and unique Gourds to show visual interest. It would be a shame for you to miss out on our Crown Princes whilst in season.

We of course also recommend our large and extra-large Pumpkins, which many use for carving competitions within the kitchen and workplace. Just don’t forget to utilise those insides! Roast pumpkin seeds a bounty!

Be sure to lean on the available root veg such as Carrots, Swede and Parsnips for bulking dishes as crops are looking good and reliable during October this year.

Potatoes are starting to develop thicker skin, which means they will be less delicate than last month, however, we still recommend storing them in a cool place (under 5C) and only washing shortly before use to keep them lasting as long as possible in your stores.

As we say many happy hellos to new autumnal products, we say goodbye to some summer favourites too. The UK season for Strawberries, Raspberries and Blueberries will be coming to an end in October, where if you still want to source them, will be coming from our friends in the EU. Alongside Chard and Spinach too.

October is also the last month to enjoy British Salad products, as in November we start to move to EU-grown salads due to the warmer climate.

We mentioned Apple Crumble, and how could we not when it’s one of the UK’s most popular puddings! There are plenty of British apples around in October that you could use to educate perhaps students and colleagues alike. From Zari, St Edmund’s Pippin, Laxton’s Fortune, Red Pippin and Spartan to name a few! These are just a couple you may learn about in our “Vegucation” sessions, where we take the opportunity to engage with the younger generations about all things food and understand where your food comes from. Reach out if you’d be interested in hearing more!

Our team is always here for any questions or queries you may have about any of the information in this report.