Supermarket prices fell across multiple meat categories, with the exception of chicken in July according to the latest report from the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers (AIMS).

The prices of beef, lamb and pork decreased over the month by an average of 0.16 per cent compared to 0.41 per cent in June.

However, the prices of chicken increased by 0.64 per cent, which was boosted by England’s progress in the World Cup and the hot weather driving the demand for beef and chicken for the BBQ and summer salads.

Tony Goodger, head of communications at AIMS said: “Beef, which in June fell by 2.26 per cent has by and large stabilised with a marginal fall of just 0.15 per cent with increases in both lean (+0.47 per cent) and standard (+0.46 per cent) mince long with rump steak (+0.39 per cent) offsetting the cuts where prices have continued to fall.”

Lamb continued to present an overall annual inflation figure, with prices increasing by 5.53 per cent (£0.91/kg) year-on-year.

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According to the industry body, pork is one of the meats which is gaining momentum as shoppers shift away from higher-priced beef and lamb cuts.

Additionally, the popularity of boneless pork shoulder has gained social media traction among BBQ consumers, with the sales of pork shoulder rising by 0.2 per cent year-on-year.

Goodger added: “Reports of switching by consumers away from higher priced beef and lamb cuts into pork shouldn’t be ignored however pork loin steaks, which would be considered a natural replacement for beef and lamb steaks continue to fall in price down 3.21 per cent (£0.26kg) on the month and a huge 17.84 per cent (£1.70) year-on-year.

“This may be being driven by imports of lower-priced pork from the EU or the even lower price per kg of chicken, which nudged up by 0.64 per cent over the month.”