EUROP grid for lamb

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. Find out how the grid is used and what the scores mean.

Fat cover is scored on a scale of 1–5, with 1 being the leanest and 5 being the fattest.

Conformation is assessed on a scale of S to P ((S)EUROP), with S being the shapeliest and P being of poor shape.

Combining scores for conformation and fat determines the most suitable markets for the lambs.

The difference between a 21 kg R3L lamb and a 21 kg R4H lamb, depending on your abattoir pricing scale, could be:

• R3L = base price/kg
• R4H = −30p/kg
• 21 kg x 30p = £6.30

Most plants will only pay up to 21.5 kg deadweight – check the upper weight limit at the plant you use.

VIA is an automated method of classifying a carcase.

Machines are integrated into the slaughter line, usually near the scale, and one side of each suspended carcase is illuminated while digital images are captured.

Specialised software extracts the data that relates to conformation and fat cover, such as length, width, angles, areas, volume and colour.

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.