Proposed Sheep Classification Rules – What Farmers and Abattoirs Need to Know
The Government has published draft legislation that would introduce mandatory sheep carcase classification and price reporting in England. If approved, the new rules will be phased in, with some requirements expected to start from January 2026 and others from February 2027.
The aim is to bring sheep into line with beef and pigs, by creating a fairer, more transparent system for everyone in the supply chain.
Why is this being proposed?
At the moment, every abattoir decides how it presents and grades sheep carcases. This makes it hard for farmers to compare prices and can mean good stock isn’t always rewarded fairly.
The draft rules are designed to:
Use a standard grading system (EUROP grid), looking at conformation (shape) and fat cover.
Ensure carcases are presented consistently at weighing.
Require abattoirs to report weights, grades and prices back to both the farmer and AHDB.
If confirmed, the changes could help deliver fairer payments for farmers.
Who would it apply to?
Large abattoirs (processing more than 2,000 sheep a week) – classification and price reporting would be mandatory.
Medium abattoirs (1,000–1,999 sheep a week) – may be able to join the scheme voluntarily.
Smaller abattoirs – would not be covered by the rules.
How would grading work?
Prime lambs (under 12 months) would be graded using the EUROP grid, familiar from beef classification.
Carcases would have to be presented in one of two approved ways, so all grading is done consistently.
Grading could be carried out by a trained manual classifier or an approved automated system.
What could this mean for farmers?
You would receive a clear breakdown from the abattoir showing carcase weight, grade and the price paid.
This information would also feed into AHDB reports, giving the industry a more accurate picture of the sheep trade.
Better transparency should help ensure you are rewarded properly for better-quality stock.
What could this mean for abattoirs?
If you process more than 2,000 sheep a week, you would need to be ready to comply with the new rules when they come into force.
Classification would have to be carried out by a licensed manual classifier or licensed automated system.
Consistent presentation and accurate reporting would be key to meeting the new legal requirements.
How MLC can help abattoirs:
We provide a sheep classification service to ensure grading is accurate, independent and compliant.
We offer training support for abattoir staff who want to become licensed sheep classifiers.
Our team has decades of experience in livestock classification and will guide you through the transition.
📞 Get in touch with MLC today to discuss sheep classification support for your abattoir.
