Covid-19 presents an 'unprecedented challenge' to the food production sector in Ireland, according to Bord Bia. The organisation, which is responsible for the promotion of Irish food globally, has announced supports for producers and food and drink manufacturers.
Lost sales across Europe are now close to €7 billion to some of Ireland's key export countries, Bord Bia says. The food sector is one of the key drivers of the Irish economy, food and drinks exports hit a record €13bn last year.
Retail demand here is up, but the widespread closure of the food service sector across Europe is hitting Irish companies hard.
In the beef sector, demand for lower value cuts like mince may have increased, but sales of higher value cuts like steaks have