Livestock farmers in the north will be given advice on how to improve livestock selection and presentation for slaughter at a pair of workshops next month.
The events, organised by Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) as part of its Meat the Market initiative, take place at Woodheads in Turriff on January 15-16.
The January 15 event will focus on lamb selection, and the event on January 16 will focus on cattle.
Both events will explain market specifications and how carcase specification may differ based on customer requirements.
Carcase grading and presentation will also be discussed to help farmers maximise their returns and minimise the risk of condemnations and carcase downgrades.
“Although focusing on cost of production is fundamental to improving profitability on farm, there are opportunities to maximise returns through careful selection and presentation of stock,” said QMS director of industry development, Sarah Millar.
The key speaker at both events will be George Allan, divisional manager with Meat and Livestock Commercial Services Ltd, which provides abattoir and authentication services to the red meat processing sector.
“Presenting clean animals in the target specification in terms of weight, conformation and fat for a particular market can boost returns to farmers,” added Mrs Millar.
“There is also a chance to make use of valuable feedback from abattoirs both from carcase weight and spec as well as any health issues that may cause downgrades or condemnations.
“These workshops are a great chance to see the whole process and understand the buyers’ needs and the ultimate customer requirements.”
Mrs Millar said spaces are limited and early booking is recommended.
Those wishing to attend must be aged 18 or over and places can be booked by contacting Beth Alexander on 07788 927520 or balexander@qmscotland.co.uk