Prices have dropped in recent years because of the possible risk that consumers could contract CJC, the human form of BSE or mad cow disease, from eating infected beef.

Farmers discuss the guide on BBC Radio 4's Today programme

As a result of this potential risk, beef produced in England and Wales has also been subject to a global export ban imposed by the European Union.

However, there has been some good news recently with the announcement by the supermarket chain Asda that it plans to return to selling only British produce by the end of this week.

The Agriculture Minister, Nick Brown, also said on Monday that he was hopeful the EU ban would be lifted by Christmas.

Wide range of advice

The Meat and Livestock Commission says it hopes the new guide will help beef producers cope with the challenges of the future.

The advice on offer to farmers ranges from information on day-to-day management techniques to the possible implications of proposed reforms to the EU's Common Agricultural Policy.

The chairman of the livestock commission, Don Curry, said: "I do hope it will provide for them an indication of how their businesses need to restructure in light of all the changes that we face."

However, one cattle worker from Herefordshire expressed doubt about the document's value.

"It's always worth reviewing your own business. There is always room for improvement," he said.