YFCU Agri Events Partner, Dunbia has hosted two live to dead events for over 50 young farmers in Dungannon.
The events were designed to give the young farmers a behind the scenes look at the livestock selection process and an understanding of the implications to farmers of presenting an out of spec animal.
“Live to dead events are an important tool for educating our industry on the livestock selection process,” explains Kenny Linton, Group Agriculture Manager. “Producing beef and lamb that meets customer requirements and specification for taste, tenderness and value for money in addition to provenance and traceability is a critical part of the beef and lamb selection process. We hope that the young farmers left with a clearer picture of the processes and staff required to achieve a product suitable for retail.”
During the event, cattle and sheep were selected for live assessment in the lairage. Each young farmer recorded their grade and estimated carcass weight which was then compared when the carcases reached the chillers.
“Our young farmers have enjoyed a unique experience at Dunbia’s Live to Dead event which will prove invaluable to them,” comments Heather Stewart, Programmes Manager, YFCU. “This is first-hand knowledge that can’t be taught in college or learned in the fields which makes it so important and beneficial to our members. It is through events like this that we see the true value our Agri-Events partnership with Dunbia.”
