EBLEX launches enhanced Quality Standard Mark Scheme for beef and lamb
EBLEX is confident that eating quality, tighter specifications and improved efficiency will all be positive outcomes of the enhanced EBLEX Quality Standard Mark Scheme for beef and lamb launched today.
Following extensive industry consultation, EBLEX has strengthened the scheme specifications to add value throughout the supply chain.
The new specifications cover animal age, carcass classifications and maturation, which combine to guarantee eating quality.
Laura Bishop, marketing manager (Quality Schemes), EBLEX, said: "It really is a win-win situation for everyone in the beef and lamb supply chain. We've upped the ante so that caterers and chefs can have even more confidence in their Quality Standard Mark beef and lamb products.
"The scheme provides one of the highest levels of independently inspected quality assurance for meat in the UK and contains combined guarantees of food safety, animal welfare, care for the environment and enhanced eating quality.
EBLEX believes the scheme standard is good news for the entire food service supply chain. Producers can look forward to the prospect of better farm gate prices provided by animals reared within the scheme. Catering butchers and caterers will appreciate greater yields and reduced waste and will be able to fully maximise profitability from the carcass. The specifications also meet consumer demands relating to eating quality and consistency and will enhance consumer confidence in beef and lamb, encouraging a purchasing preference when they are dining out.
The new standards will come into effect from 6 August.
All major multiple retailers are members of the scheme along with most of the major processors, wholesalers, catering butchers and approximately 1,800 independent retailers. There are currently more than 18,000 outlets stocking or serving Quality Standard Mark beef or lamb.
For further information visit the EBLEX website www.eblextrade.co.uk or call the scheme hotline: 0845 491 8787.
By Lisa Jenkins
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