Over the past few weeks, a strong demand for ram lambs has been seen across the country's livestock markets due to an upcoming Muslim festival.
The festival sees a boom in trade and market throughput.听
Awal Fuseini, halal sector manager at AHDB, explains how farmers can meet demand in preparation for the festival. 听
He said: "The demand come from the approaching Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha (festival of sacrifice). 听The date of the festival can vary due to the sighting of the moon, but it is expected to be on Wednesday June 28.听
"During Qurbani, there is an increased听demand for sheep meat, with an听estimated听300,000 additional sheep required.听
"Processing of animals for the festival is carried out over three days, commencing after the Eid al-Adha prayers."听
Entire ram lambs are preferred which have undocked tails and are fit and healthy.听
The target for deadweight is between 17 to 20kg, with liveweight lambs between 38-48kg which preferably will grade听R or O.听
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Auctioneer for Clee Tomkinson and Francis, Shae Price said: "We have had interest from several firms requesting numbers again for the week commencing June 19 following the demand in ram lambs between 38 to 48kg. 听
"This week we saw a premium of between 拢8 to 拢13 for these lambs, but it is expected that there will be an interest in slightly lighter lambs down to 35kg for next week.听
"When selecting lambs, it is important to be careful as leaner lambs do not reach the requirement and may not see a premium."听
AHDB figures show around 90 per cent of halal slaughter is pre-stunned and follows the same process as mainstream slaughter and is performed in accordance with the faith. 听
All slaughter is regulated and overseen by the abbiotors official vet.听
About the festival
Mr Fuseini said: "Eid al-Adha is one of the most important festivals in the Muslim calendar. The festival is held to remember the prophet Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son when God ordered him.听
The essence of Qurbani (sacrifice) happens as part of the festival to encourage acts of charity within the Muslim community.听
This is often displayed by people purchasing听meat to share with their friends and family."听
Watch - AHDB, Understanding the Qurbani market -听听
