BEEF SHORTAGE WARNING

Good Hope Meat Hyper, one of the city's largest Halaal meat retailers has warned of a possible beef shortage following a confirmed case of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) at the Karan Beef feedlot in Heidelberg Gauteng.

The retailer has called on customers to be understanding of potential price fluctuations and product availability in the coming weeks.

A statement reads: “In response to the outbreak, precautionary quarantine measures have been implemented, and while containment efforts are under way, this may lead to a temporary shortage of beef products across the market.”

“We urge our customers to shop responsibly during this period and understand that availability may be limited and prices may fluctuate due to reduced supply. We appreciate your patience and continued support as the industry navigates this challenge.”

The warning follows a public announcement by Karan Beef, South Africa's largest beef producer, which has confirmed a case of FMD identified at its Heidelberg feedlot.

The facility was placed under pre-emptive quarantine on Friday, May 30, 2025, after a suspected infection was flagged. Laboratory results confirmed the presence of the disease on Monday, 2 June.

In its statement, Karan Beef said: “This unfortunate development highlights the ongoing risks faced by the livestock industry, even under rigorous control systems. 

“Karan Beef is working closely with State Veterinary Services to ensure swift containment and to minimise any further risk to the broader industry. 

“As always, we remain committed to transparency, compliance, and maintaining the highest standards of animal health and welfare.”

FMD is a highly contagious viral disease that affects cloven-hoofed animals.

While it does not pose a direct threat to humans, it has serious implications for trade, livestock movement, and food supply chains. 

In light of the outbreak, national authorities have activated emergency protocols to contain its spread and limit market disruption.

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen said intensified efforts by the Department of Agriculture are beginning to show results, with two provinces, Eastern Cape and Limpopo, expected to have their disease management areas lifted in the coming days.

At the same time, a R72 million emergency order for FMD vaccines has been placed, with delivery of the next batch expected by mid-June.