New resource to support export opportunities

The comprehensive guide outlines the recognised standard processing and packaging specifications for all of the non-carcase meat products that there is a market for globally. It also includes translations of the names for the products in the primary export markets.

It was put together following demand from the industry to produce such a resource and a drive by EBLEX to encourage processors to extract greater value from the whole carcase and reduce waste. The opportunity for offal and variety meats lies predominantly within foreign markets, which is why the EBLEX export team has been working to access these markets, especially within Africa and the Far East. There has been a significant shift in the beef and sheep co-products exported and in 2014 the UK exported 47,000 tonnes of offal, a rise of 28 per cent from 2013, contributing £67 million to the UK economy.

“The UK has a great reputation worldwide for high quality meat products that are traceable and safe due to our assurance schemes, veterinary controls and processing methods,” said EBLEX export manager, Jean-Pierre Garnier.

“The guide provides the information for processers and exporters to ensure the optimum quality is achieved when harvesting, chilling and packing offal and variety meats for the export market.”

The guide is available to English beef and lamb processors, email Christine Walsh (Christine.Walsh@ahdb.org.uk) to request a copy.