Carcase classification for lamb

While there are many market specifications for lamb, including maximum and minimum weight bands, most meat buyers are looking for animals that classify as R3L. Find out how the S(EUROP) grid is used to classify lambs.

Whatever your market, feed your lambs to reach the required weight and classification and no more – driving for heavier weights is counterproductive.

Overweight lambs, which generally means those weighing more than 21.5 kg, will usually attract a penalty as the carcases can become overfat, which consumers do not like.

Taking your sheep to higher weights is also inefficient as feed costs increase per kilogram produced and they may be depriving lighter lambs, meaning they’ll take longer to reach finishing weight.

In the UK and Europe, lamb carcases are classified using the (S)EUROP grid.

Combining scores for conformation and fat determines the market most suited for each type of carcase.

Abattoir kill sheets provide valuable information on production efficiency, animal health and profitability.

To successfully market prime lamb, you need to produce and sell the type of sheep buyers want and are willing to pay the most money for.

Our virtual selection tool shows how real and virtual animals look at different points in the classification grid.

It also takes you through different carcase cuts, yield data and several other topics related to selection.