Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 May 2000

Vol. 518 No. 6

Written Answers. - EU Beef Carcase Classification Scheme.

John Bruton

Ceist:

225 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development his views of the criticism of the agri food 2010 group that the EU carcase classification scheme measures meat yield rather that meat quality, as understood by the consumer; and if he has any plans to make representations to have the classification scheme adjusted so as to more accurately reflect consumer needs. [12953/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

The EU beef carcase classification scheme, which applies in all member states under EU legislation, is a system for describing the shape and fat cover of the carcase in a standardised manner. It was set up in 1980 in order to provide a uniform method of recording beef prices and determining eligibility for intervention in each member state.

While the classification system is primarily concerned with meat yield, it is used in the beef trade to reflect consumer requirements in relation to quality. For example, research by An Bord Bia has shown that consumer demand in the United Kingdom for a higher fat cover is reflected in the general demand from traders in that market for grades URO, 2, 3, 4. On the other hand, demand in France, where consumer's preference is for leaner beef, is for grades EUR, 2, 3, 4. It is not practicable for the classification system to measure other quality aspects such as flavour, tenderness etc. because these are highly subjective, vary from market to market and are dependent on how the beef is handled post classification and, in particular, the maturation period. These qualitative aspects are best captured under the type of quality assurance scheme operated by Bord Bia. There are also a number of private schemes, such as the KK Club, the Irish Angus Producers Group, Hereford Prime Beef, etc., which are designed to produce the type and quality of beef demanded in individual markets.

In view of that it is not appropriate to extend the present EU beef carcase classification scheme to include quality aspects which would make the present scheme more subjective rather than increase its objectivity.