Farmer views sought on EUROP carcase grading system

AHDB has issued a call for farmer and industry views on the future of carcase classification.

The farm levy body said it was keen to gather views on the current EUROP grid, which has been challenged in recent years.

Strategy director for beef and lamb, Laura Ryan, said: “With Brexit right around the corner, this is the perfect time to have an industry-wide discussion to assess the appetite for change in carcase classification and the key industry needs.

“The beef and lamb sector has seen a number of changes in recent years and we want to make sure that, with a potential blank canvas in the pricing of cattle and sheep, that we help industry members have the opportunity to consider factors that are important to today’s supply chains and consumers.”

She said AHDB had reviewed the carcase grading methods used in other countries, including Australia, America, Canada and South Africa.

Ahead of a full consultation in the winter over the future of the EUROP grid, farmers are asked to share views by sending an email to carcase@ahdb.org.uk. The deadline for submissions is Friday September 8.