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Sheep farmers in the bluetongue restriction zone are facing lower prices for their lambs from abattoirs, with some sites cutting prices by up to 50p/kg to cover additional costs related to the disease. The move has been met with disappointment by the National Sheep Association, with chief executive Phil Stocker expressing concern that farmers are already facing challenges and should not be further penalized in the marketplace. Abattoirs are facing increased costs due to control measures and cleaning procedures, but it is important for the industry to work together rather than taking advantage of each other.
The bluetongue restriction zone covers a large part of the east of England and has recently expanded to include areas in Leicestershire, Northamptonshire, and Buckinghamshire. Farmers Fresh, a major sheep processor, has implemented a 30p/kg price cut for lambs from the bluetongue zones due to the extra costs involved in disinfecting the site and handling stock from restricted areas. The tightening window for slaughter due to Apha guidance on peak vector activity times is also impacting abattoirs as daylight hours decrease.
Despite the challenges, trade at livestock markets within the bluetongue zones has been affected, with fewer buyers present. High farmgate lamb prices earlier in the year have led to some abattoirs reporting significant monthly losses. However, overall GB finished deadweight lamb prices remain higher than last year, averaging 624p/kg for the week ending 5 October.
In a case study from Melton Meat in Leicestershire, director Mark Gale highlighted the difficulties faced in procuring lambs within the bluetongue restriction zone. While initially challenging, the extension of the zone to include his abattoir has simplified the procurement process. The 24-hour rule for BTV has posed challenges for farm abattoirs like Melton Meat, adding to the existing paperwork and compliance burdens in the industry.
Overall, the industry is navigating challenges posed by bluetongue restrictions while striving to maintain fair prices and support farmers within the affected zones.
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SOURCE
Maria Sanchez completed her Bachelor’s degree in Plant Sciences from the University of California, Davis, in the USA. Her studies focused on plant genetics and biotechnology, with an emphasis on developing disease-resistant crop varieties. Maria has contributed to several research projects aimed at improving crop resilience to climate change and is now pursuing her Master’s degree in Plant Breeding.
