New cattle weight bands to improve auction market price reporting
New weight bands for reporting prime cattle prices sold through auction markets will come into force on 1 January 2012, to make the bands more reflective of the marketplace and enhance current auction market price reporting.
EBLEX notebooks are a vital tool for livestock producers
Beef and sheep producers wanting to start off 2012 on the right foot should make it their new year’s resolution to record the physical performance of their enterprise using EBLEX’s herd and flock notebooks.
EBLEX ambitions for beef and lamb exports in 2012
A dedicated push on exports of beef, lamb and fifth quarter products will continue throughout 2012, EBLEX has revealed.
EBLEX project examines effects of Landscapes without Livestock
The crucial role livestock plays in maintaining the English countryside has been highlighted in a new report.
Dads to deck the table this festive season with ‘A Father’s Christmas’
A new EBLEX campaign will reveal how different the Christmas period would be if dads were left in charge, while promoting delicious Red Tractor beef and lamb dishes.
Sheep producers may not be capitalising on higher prices
Continued higher lamb prices could be masking inefficiencies in lowland breeding flocks which mean producers are not achieving the returns they could in the current buoyant market.
James Martin crowns 2011 young chef champion
Celebrity chef and TV presenter James Martin has named 15-year-old Charlotte Heath as the Red Tractor beef and lamb Mmmake it with Mince National Champion 2011.
Signet calls for new ultrasound equipment
Ultrasound scanning equipment for cattle and sheep is the subject of an unusual invitation to tender issued by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board’s EBLEX division.
EBLEX calls on farmers to help monitor costs and improve returns
EBLEX is recruiting English beef and sheep farmers to be part of its new Stocktake annual costs of production survey.
Euro News section launched on EBLEX website
All the hot topics and issues from Brussels affecting the beef and lamb sector will feature on a new Euro News section launched by EBLEX on its website.
Fixed costs key to improving suckler herd margins
Effective management of fixed costs could be key to beef suckler herd producers achieving better returns.
New EBV for scrotal circumference
Scrotal circumference has been released as an Estimated Breeding Value (EBV) for the first time in UK-based beef cattle evaluations.
EBLEX offers a festive boost to farm shops
Farm shops can enjoy some festive cheer this winter thanks to a new marketing kit from EBLEX.
Pushing for local school dinners
The call for more Red Tractor assured produce to be served in schools is a step in the right direction say EBLEX and BPEX.
Seam butchery cutting demonstrations now online
Farmers who sell their beef directly to the public can benefit from the latest seam butchery techniques thanks to a series of new videos produced by EBLEX.
Livestock managers join forces
The beef, lamb, pig and dairy sectors are joining forces for a series of one-day management training sessions in Yorkshire, starting next week
“Time is right” for beef and sheep industry database
Industry-driven real-time animal databases for the beef and sheep sectors are essential to help enhance the industry’s reputation and minimise the potential impact of a major disease outbreak, the EBLEX annual conference was told this week.
EBLEX ‘farm-to-fork’ day promotes supply chain co-operation
Chefs, butchers and farmers joined EBLEX and Michelin-starred chef Nigel Haworth for a “farm to fork” experience event in County Durham.
New EBLEX abattoir guidelines to maintain lamb tenderness
EBLEX has produced a new set of guidelines to help abattoirs maintain the tenderness of lamb.
New lamb cuts improve gross margins by 20 per cent
A new range of alternative added value lamb cuts developed by EBLEX could improve gross margins by 20 per cent and stimulate additional demand.
Business Pointers 2011 launched to help producers monitor production costs
The physical performance of beef cattle and sheep raised by farmers in England is improving year on year, the new Business Pointers 2011 report shows.
New export website launched by EBLEX and BPEX
A new website for prospective international customers has been launched by the EBLEX and BPEX Export Department.
James Martin calls for more skills support for young people
Celebrity chef James Martin has launched a high-profile campaign to support young people in learning how to cook basic recipes.
North Yorkshire farmers offered BVD control advice
Managing the BVD threat through on-farm controls is the theme of an event for beef and dairy farmers taking place in North Yorkshire next week.
Government ‘here to help’ UK meat exporters says Minister
The UK meat sector has a really good export story to tell and can continue to grow and flourish by working with the Government to break into new overseas markets and expand existing ones.
New farmer’s procurement agreements guide
A new procurement agreements guide for selling livestock has been published by EBLEX and the National Farmers Union (NFU).
EBLEX conference places being snapped up
Places are going quickly for this year’s EBLEX annual conference which will showcase domestic and global market opportunities for Quality Standard beef and lamb.
EBLEX launches cost management guide for small abattoirs and meat processors
A new guide to help small abattoirs and meat processors manage their costs has been published by EBLEX.
EBLEX campaign drives assured beef and lamb awareness
A campaign to boost sales and awareness of assured beef and lamb while giving shoppers the chance to scoop cash prizes has been launched by EBLEX.
Round Table predicts bright future for sheep breeders
Profitability, genetic improvement, an efficient supply chain and applied research are among the topics to be discussed by an industry-wide audience at the 2011 Sheep Breeders Round Table, which takes place from 4 to 6 November in Nottingham.
BRP+ takes a closer look at trace element supplementation
Improving enterprise profitability through effective trace element supplementation is the theme of a new EBLEX Better Returns Programme Plus (BRP+) publication available from today.
Poor beef cattle handling can cost GBP 160 per beast
Dark cutting beef can reduce beef carcase values by as much as 50p per kilo, according to latest research by EBLEX.
Survey shows Spanish consumers’ appetite for grass-fed lamb
Spanish consumers have given a thumbs up to Quality Standard grass-fed lamb, new research has revealed.
Signet recorded rams dominate National Texel Sales
Signet recorded rams dominated the recent national Texel sales, with high index rams winning three major championships.
New resources to help teach children about red meat
A website aimed at helping youngsters understand more about red meat in a healthy balanced diet has been given an overhaul with fresh new look and improved resources.
EBLEX opens eyes to new markets
Highlighting opportunities in a range of markets came under the spotlight when EBLEX staged a series of Lamb Roadshows across England.
Costs of production rise for beef and sheep farmers
Beef and sheep farmers have seen production “cost per kilo” figures rise across almost all enterprises, data from the annual EBLEX business Pointers benchmarking survey has revealed.
New guide to help beef up financial returns for farmers
A new seller’s guide to help farmers maximise the financial returns from beef and sheep production has been published by EBLEX and the National Farmers Union (NFU).
EBLEX conference to showcase market opportunities for beef and lamb
Domestic and global market opportunities for beef and lamb will come under the spotlight at this year’s EBLEX annual conference.
Costings calculator developed for direct sell producers
A beef and lamb costings tool which calculates margins and overall yield for producers selling directly to the public has been developed by EBLEX.
Half year export figures rosy for beef and lamb
Latest Government export figures show both beef and lamb exports continue to grow, while imports are down.
Potential for improved margins in beef and sheep sector highlighted by study
Despite rising costs, top third beef and sheep producers in England are showing positive margins after cash costs, research carried out for EBLEX is showing.
New kits highlight nutritional value of red meat
Quality Standard butchers are being encouraged to arm their customers with the facts about the nutritional benefits of red meat, thanks to new point-of-sale kits from EBLEX.
Yield research highlights benefits of classification grid
A review of meat yield based on the EUROP classification scale has found that carcases hitting the key target areas of the grid still provide the largest volume of saleable meat.
Beef and veal exports soar
Exports of fresh/frozen beef and veal from the UK have soared by 31 per cent, according to new figures released by EBLEX.
Lamb delights German chefs
Chefs and food journalists from Germany have been given a taste of the culinary opportunities offered by lamb during a visit to England.
EBLEX hits the road
An EBLEX ‘Lamb Roadshow’ will be touring English auction markets throughout August with the aim of helping producers gain a greater understanding of the key markets for lamb.
Celebrity chef fronts EBLEX youth cookery campaign
TV chef James Martin is again fronting an EBLEX campaign aimed at encouraging more young people to cook with beef and lamb.
UK/NZ supply chain invests in grassland management project
A new project has been launched in the UK and New Zealand to assess how software programs can be used to improve grassland management on livestock farms.
Beef and pork see summer sales rise
The below par British summer may be behind a seasonal boost for sales of beef and pork.
Research project investigates mutton quality
A research project to assess the effects of different post-slaughter treatments on the quality of mutton has been launched by EBLEX.
EBLEX launches industry blog
Keeping farmers, processors and industry stakeholders up to date on the latest legislative and political issues affecting the English beef and sheep sector is the focus of a new EBLEX blog.
New EBLEX cutting guide offers a profitable boost
Beef producers who sell their meat directly to consumers can boost their profit margin by up to 8% simply by following the step-by-step instructions in a new EBLEX guide.
Beef conference discusses negative effect of higher feed prices
Rising profitability in the beef production sector could be tempered this year by higher grain and feed prices, an international industry conference has warned.
EBLEX backs Big Farm series
UK consumers will be able to learn more about where their food comes from thanks to a new TV programme backed by EBLEX.
Global sheep price outlook is strong, says new report
Flock rebuilding in Europe, harsh weather in New Zealand during lambing and growing demand in the Far and Middle East are expected to lead to continued strong prices in the lamb market.
BBQ SOS service helps cooking with quality beef and lamb
A barbecue SOS service has been launched for the summer to help garden chefs get the best out of their beef and lamb dishes.
New corporate communications officer for EBLEX
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has appointed Andy Hutson as EBLEX corporate communications officer to help promote the organisation’s work for the beef and sheep industry in England.
French market embraces Angus
The Angus is starting to make its mark in France with French breeders importing around 100 animals from England this summer.
Better resource management key to improving returns
Making the best use of resources and inputs is essential if producers want to get better returns, delegates were told at the first EBLEX Upland Conference last week.
Soil sampling project identifies opportunities for major cost savings
Livestock farmers could save hundreds of pounds by knowing and optimising their soil nutrient levels, an EBLEX, Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) and Environment Agency project has revealed.
Quality Standard scheme gains plaudits from influential French food group
Beef produced under the Quality Standard scheme has been praised by the esteemed French ‘Rosbifs Club’ during a three-day visit to England.
Opportunity knocks for UK beef and sheep exports
The UK beef and sheep sector will continue to see strong export growth for the foreseeable future, as economic forces and access to new markets create significant opportunities for the industry.
Foreign visitors treated to a Beef Extravaganza
More than 60 beef buyers and meat industry journalists from 14 different countries visited England this week as EBLEX hosted a Beef Extravaganza.
Have your say on West Country PGI
A consultation kicked off this week into plans for Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status for beef and lamb from the West Country.
Project focuses on farming the Yorkshire uplands
Upland beef and sheep farmers in Yorkshire and the Humber can benefit from practical advice on reducing costs and improving performance and efficiency, thanks to a new focus farm project.
Innovative approach to muck analysis
A new muck analysis technique will help farmers analyse the nutrient content of manures rapidly and accurately – and at a lower cost than before.
EBLEX appoints Kim Matthews as new head of research and development
Kim Matthews has been appointed head of research and development for EBLEX, with immediate effect.
Glorious Easter fires barbecue boom
The Royal Wedding and unseasonably good Easter weather sparked a boom in sales of barbecue burgers and sausages.
World-renowned handling expert to speak at EBLEX event
The world’s leading expert on animal handling, Dr Temple Grandin, will be speaking at an exclusive EBLEX workshop in June.
“Think global to maximise beef carcase value”
Beef producers in England need to “think global” to maximise the return on each beast, EBLEX sector Director told visitors to Beef Expo this week.
Export conference gives insight into new markets
Key players from the beef and sheep export markets are to come together at an event in Warwickshire next month to help further expand the growing sector.
A pocketful of facts and figures
A host of facts and figures on the livestock industry in both the UK and the EU are available in the latest issue of A Pocketful of Meat Facts, just published.
Review of evidence on claims of links between red meat and cancer
The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) has published a review of its evidence from a previous report which suggested links between red meat and instances of colorectal cancer.
South Africa now open for beef exports
Beef producers in the UK can export products to South Africa again for the first time in 15 years
Conference focuses on profitable upland production
The challenges faced by beef and sheep producers in Less Favoured Areas (LFAs) will be addressed at the first EBLEX Upland Conference next month.
EBLEX competition gives farm shop butchers the edge
Farm shop butchers can once again showcase their skills at Beef Expo thanks to an EBLEX initiative.
EBLEX forecasts point to brighter times ahead
Beef and sheep producers can be optimistic about the future of the industry, according to the latest forecasts revealed at the EBLEX, BPEX and DairyCo Outlook Conference in Westminster last week.
Sheep Breeders Round Table offers expert advice
A biannual event which brings together the cream of the UK sheep industry to drive efficiency and innovation in the sector will take place in Nottingham later this year.
Markets surveys now available via website
Weekly summaries of the red meat industry markets, retail prices and other industry trends are now accessible directly via the EBLEX website.
Improve your forage knowledge at Grassland & Muck 2011
"Ask a forage question" is the theme of the joint EBLEX, DairyCo and British Grassland Society (BGS) stand at this year's Grassland & Muck event, with experts giving practical advice to on how to make the most of the UK's cheapest livestock feed.
Beef prices on the rise
Beef prices published this week broke through the 300p/kg barrier for the first time ever.
Livestock sector can hit climate change targets
The English livestock industry can overcome the challenges of its contribution to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, according to leading livestock scientist Dr Duncan Pullar.
Reseeding advice from the experts
Dairy, beef and sheep farmers can get advice on all aspects of reseeding at a free event at Duchy College, Cornwall on 5 May.
“Scare-mongering” about red meat no way to tackle emissions - EU
Urging consumers to cut red meat consumption is not an effective way to tackle climate change, the European Commission has reaffirmed.
Meat South West reshapes
Leading Devon sheep producer Peter Baber has been appointed chairman of Meat South West (MSW), following Robert Bowditch’s decision to step down from the role after four years.
New board members for EBLEX
The Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) has appointed two new members to the EBLEX board to help steer the organisation’s work for beef and sheep producers in England.
New index helps sheep producers breed better mums
Poll Dorset and Dorset Horn breeders now have a better tool to help identify their most profitable sheep thanks to the introduction of a new Signet Maternal Breeding Index.
GHG emissions – agriculture’s action plan
Over the next 40 years, the global food system will have to feed more people with less impact. This will mean providing a higher quality diet while dealing with greater competition for land, water and energy and the economic and political pressures of globalisation as the climate changes.
Efficient resource use offers major cost savings
Beef and lamb processors could make savings of up to £100,000 on their annual water and energy bills by following the practical advice contained in a new suite of leaflets published by EBLEX, HCC and QMS.
Docility EBV for Limousin cattle is first in UK
A new docility breeding value to help breeders and buyers of Limousin cattle is being launched for beef producers in the UK for the first time.
Beef and lamb recipes showcase generation’s culinary skills
Celebrity chef James Martin has praised the culinary skills of youngsters across England after more than 800 entered a beef and lamb mince cookery competition.
UK bullish on beef exports
The value of UK beef exports rose by 25% in 2010 to £321 million, with volumes increasing to over 100,000 tonnes for the first time since 1995, according to the latest export figures from EBLEX.
Looking at effects of CAP reform
With reform of the Common Agricultural Policy in the melting pot along with environmental concerns, this year’s Outlook Conference takes on even greater importance.
Princess Royal to launch Ladies in Beef and Great British Beef Week
Ladies in Beef is a new organisation of female beef farmers who care passionately about British beef.
EBLEX gets green light for permanent HQ
EBLEX is finally set to have a permanent base after the Cabinet Office gave the green light for it to stay at Stoneleigh.
Defra endorses EBLEX investment plan
Defra has formally endorsed EBLEX’s £2 million investment plan to boost exports of beef and lamb and showcase the benefits of eating red meat.
New purchasing guides to help exporters
A new purchasing guide has been produced by EBLEX to help further expand the UK’s £700 million beef and lamb export market.
Online access to breeding records enhances Signet service
Beef and sheep producers who want to enhance the genetic potential of their livestock can now access breeding records and technical factsheets on a revamped industry website
New manual showcases 320 beef and sheep cuts
A new cutting guide for beef, lamb and mutton has been launched by EBLEX, with 72 new cuts to help bring added value to the carcase for producers and processors.
EBLEX Quality Standard scheme offers benefits across the supply chain
An average deadweight premium of approximately 25 pence per kg for producers is just one of the advantages of being part of a supply chain providing EBLEX Quality Standard beef and lamb.
“No evidence” that eating lean red meat in moderation has negative health effects
A new review of published evidence about red meat and its links to health shows that a moderate intake of lean red meat makes a significant positive contribution to both micronutrient and macronutrient intakes without risking any negative health effects.
Meat the new representative
A new representative has been appointed to look after the interests of the English beef, lamb and pork sectors in German speaking countries on behalf of EBLEX and BPEX.
Box scheme offers a boost to beef and sheep producers
English beef and sheep producers who sell their meat directly to the public are being given a helping hand thanks to a new beef and lamb box scheme from EBLEX.
EBLEX tools help Business Link reach further
EBLEX has linked with Government business information portal Business Link to help more beef and sheep farmers tap into its online resources.
We need your views on apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are one of a range of entry opportunities into farming. With a proposed £250 million Government investment over the next four years they could be an important route to attract and encourage young people into careers in agriculture and horticulture.
Look out for Outlook!
April 27, 2011 – a date not to be missed! Get it in your diary now for the BPEX/EBLEX annual Outlook Conference.
Open invitation to Kent beef and sheep farmers
Kent beef and sheep producers are invited to find out more about the work done by EBLEX and practical ways they can improve their returns, at a free event next month.
Carbon footprint work key to defending beef and sheep industry performance
Demonstrating that beef and sheep producers are working to tackle environmental emissions and meet tough Government targets is vital if the industry is to stave off additional regulation.
Free soil analysis can lead to improved returns
Good nutrient management informed by soil analysis can save time and money and improve returns yet only around a quarter soil samples analysed are at target index, a study has shown.
Festive sales surge for beef
Beef sales were up 12.7% over the Christmas period as consumers looked for alternatives to turkey over the festive season, according to new figures from EBLEX.
New EBLEX report takes stock of auction markets
The future sustainability of English livestock markets is under scrutiny in a new report produced by MLCSL Consulting for EBLEX.
Open Farm Sunday
Were you involved in Open Farm Sunday 2010? Would you like to be involved in 2011?