The new sheep carcase classification rules are now live for approved slaughterhouses in England. It’s mandatory for plants that slaughter a rolling average of over 2,000 sheep per week and voluntary for those slaughtering an average of under 2000 per week.
Plants in scope on 28 January 2026 must be registered by 25 February 2026. if you cross the threshold after that, you have 28 days to register. Requirements include: assigning a unique kill number to every carcase (all ages), and for sheep under 12 months, categorising and grading by fat and conformation, plus labelling, communications to suppliers, record-keeping, inspections/penalties, classifier licensing, and price reporting (with automated classification licensing from 2027).
We are the UKs largest trade body for the meat industry and provide expert advice on trade issues, bespoke technical advice and access to government policy makers
We are proud to count businesses of all sizes and specialties as members. They range from small, family run abattoirs serving local customers to the largest meat processing companies responsible for supplying some of our best-loved brands to shops and supermarkets.
We are further strengthened by our associate Members who work in industries that support and supply our meat processing companies.
We are the voice of the British meat industry.
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