Approximately 60% of lambs and 70-80% of cattle met market specifications in 2018 with over fat or overweight being two of the most common reasons for out of spec carcases. By hitting target specifications, farmers can maximise returns.

In addition to Quality Meat Scotland’s (QMS) ‘Meat the Market’ workshops which were carried out at processing plants around Scotland prior to Covid-19, the Industry Development team at QMS have developed a new ‘Meat the Grade’ virtual tool which will be launched during a live webinar on Wednesday 18th November 2020.

The ‘Meat the Grade’ tool will give livestock producers and supply chains online access to valuable market driven insights to stock selection, carcase specification and grading techniques.

The webinar, which will take place during AgriScot’s 2020 online event, will provide a video carcase demonstration with Adrian Crowe, South East of England Divisional Manager from Meat and Livestock Commercial Services Ltd (MLCSL). Attendees will also get a live tour of the platform from the QMS Industry Development team and have the opportunity to participate in a live Q&A session.

Beth Alexander, Trainee Cattle and Sheep Specialist at QMS highlights: “The new online platform, which will be available via the QMS website after the launch event will allow producers to learn more about the whole supply chain including classification grids, handling points and the hygiene and dressing requirements at both farm and abattoir.

“Fat trimmed off a carcase by the processor is a waste, which incurs disposal costs, so understanding carcase grading and presentation can help farmers ensure they hit the correct specification for their chosen market and therefore maximise the best financial return.”

To sign up to the free webinar which takes place at 10.30am on Wednesday 18th November, register to attend AgriScot’s 2020 online event at www.agriscot.co.uk.