As COVID-19 causes havoc across the world, livestock farmers could see their income plummet.

This is already happening in the lamb sector as exports dry up and people stop eating out. But the beef sector could also be in trouble as high-value cuts like roasts and steaks are more difficult to shift.

As people are restricted to one shopping trip per day, many will decide on visiting a big supermarket as opposed to the high street and into the butchers. The recent booming trade in butchers could struggle as many look to continue with door-to-door deliveries.

Further, streamlined produced lines could see regional brands like Scotch pushed from the shelves as retailers look to strip staffing to a minimum. We have already seen Aldi drop its Scottish pork label and move back to the UK Red Tractor brand.

Furthermore, fifth-quarter values will fall as exports to places like west Africa becoming increasingly challenging. Plus the recent jump in feed prices will make turning a profit all the more difficult.

In these unprecedented times, the Government is underwriting the economy to keep people fed and watered. They also need to be ready to ensure prices are maintained to farmers to prevent our red meat sector crashing out.

It is still early days as the world adjusts to dealing with COVID-19 and the full impact has yet to be felt. But to keep the country fed, we need as much stability in the farmgate price as possible or we could have a farming sector in trouble at a time we need it more than ever.