COLES has no immediate plans to introduce RSPCA endorsed beef and lamb but will not rule out the idea.
Coles spokesman Jon Church told FarmOnline today that the supermarket giant had “no specific plans” to introduce beef and lamb approved by the RSPCA.
“We have no plans to do so, but if we did, we would work closely with suppliers and the other thing to note is that would be offered as a choice for customers – we would not move to a wholesale situation where all our beef and lamb was RSPCA approved,” Mr Church said.
He said Coles worked closely with suppliers at present and was satisfied the highest animal welfare standards were adhered to.
“The issue was raised in response to a question, and given the way we know consumers are going, that animal welfare and issues of ethical sourcing are important, it is something we could look at in the future.
“But we are not implying that we have any issues with the beef or lamb we are selling now, we work very hard with our suppliers to ensure high standards are attached,” Mr Church said.
The supermarket already sells RSPCA-approved turkeys, poultry, eggs and, from next year, pork.
The meat is accredited after assessments are made on the living standards of animals and the availability of food and water.
