Meeting the market requirements for organic lamb

An event to be held at ADAS Pwllpeiran on 22 September 2009 will be an opportunity for farmers to find out more about marketing organic lamb. It is being organized by ADAS on behalf of Organic Centre Wales as part of the Farming Connect Organic Development Programme.

The event will include presentations from Organic Centre Wales, ADAS Pwllpeiran, Dunbia and Rumenco and a demonstration of finished lambs from different crosses of hill sheep.

Organic lamb is a niche market supplying predominantly high value quality cuts and either diced or minced lamb for added-value products such as ready meals. The carcass requirements for organic lamb are high, and lambs not meeting the specification may have to be sold on the conventional market.

Another problem is that much Welsh organic lamb is finished in the autumn or early winter with shortages of supply at other times of the year .

Owen Davies, Manager of ADAS Pwllpeiran, said: “This workshop will highlight the opportunities for organic lamb and provide some production options to enable optimum premiums to be realized. An understanding of the requirements of the organic market is essential to allow us to make the most of our production.”

The event starts at 10.00 and finishes at 3.30pm. It is free, but you should register with Phil Jones on 01970 622248 to ensure a place and check the arrangements.