NFU Scotland has called on Scotland's abattoir sector to work closer with producers in efforts to ensure Scotland's beef cattle meet the required market specification.

The Union also reminds meat processors that factors outwith the control of farmers can make getting the shape, correct weight and right amount of fat and marbling in the carcase extremely challenging.

For the second spring in succession, those selling prime cattle in the early part of the year have seen beef prices fall below profitable levels and regular marketing was disrupted by delays and longer waiting times at abattoirs.

NFUS is taking a proactive approach by holding meetings around Scotland in the autumn to take this challenge head on. It has invited representatives of the Scottish Association of Meat Wholesalers (SAMW) to come along to the meetings. This will allow beef producers to get round the table with abattoirs and processors to discuss the problems as well as the solutions to growing the market for Scotch beef.

NFUS Livestock Committee Chairman Charlie Adam said: "Hitting the right specification for modern markets is a hugely important aspect of beef production, but not one without its challenges. For the second year in a row, long waiting times at abattoirs has meant that many farmers were forced into delivering out-of-spec cattle. For any finisher, it is infuriating to see your prime stock drift out-of-spec because you had your order delayed, or abattoir specifications have changed.

"Falling out-of-spec is a concern for every beef finisher, but it becomes critical for a business if it happens on a falling market. Our hard-pressed producers have seen a huge fall in their price year-on-year, while the retail price for beef on shop shelves is little changed.

"If farmers need a reminder on the shape and finish wanted by our processors, the live auction system provides a transparent marketplace where farmers can see exactly what is in demand. Farmers providing cattle to the live ring understand exactly what sells."

Mr Adam went on: "We cannot take the issue of cattle specifications in isolation and must consider it amongst all challenges facing the beef industry. Every link in the beef chain must play its part, from farmers producing in-spec cattle to processors and retailers producing well-packaged and labelled Scotch beef that appeals to the consumers at home and abroad."

Market round-up

Messrs Craig Wilson Ltd sold 729 prime lambs in Newton Stewart yesterday to a top of £90 per head and 208.5p per kg to average 182.8p (-6.6p on the week).

A small show of 113 cast sheep saw ewes sell to £103 for Texels and £77 for Cheviots.