Several opportunities exist where the red meat processing sector in Wales can reduce waste and increase efficiency, a new report has highlighted.
The report, by Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC), sampled four abattoirs out of the 19 abattoirs currently operating in Wales.
The abattoirs which participated in the project were small and medium enterprises with the majority being run as family businesses.
Their current processes and procedures were monitored and assessed to see what more could be done in the industry to increase business profitability and reduce waste – improving the industry’s environmental footprint.
Key recommendations from the report to improve efficiency and reduce waste within the sector includes a continuous review of business expenditure to manage costs, and examining collaborative business ventures to reduce processing and waste disposal costs.
Recommendations also include ways to add value to food products or waste products and offering training to both livestock farmers and abattoir staff to reduce waste on site.
Norman Bagley of the Association of Independent Meat Suppliers, commented: "The processing sector has come under increased financial pressures over the last decade with margins continually being squeezed.
"This work could be of great value to small and medium sized meat processors who play a vital role in sustaining the food and farming industries."
Dr Eleri Price, Supply Chain Executive at HCC and co-author of the report, added: "There is good work currently being undertaken across the industry but this new report highlights ways in which red meat processors can become even more efficient and profitable whilst reducing waste and decreasing environmental impact"
Dr Price also said there are some steps farmers can take to reduce waste in the supply chain, such as by ensuring that livestock is presented in the best possible condition.
HCC offers Livestock Selection courses at abattoirs across Wales so farmers can better understand how livestock should best be presented.
Farmers, along with the UK's largest retailers and manufacturers, have already committed to new milestones laid out in a the Food Waste Reduction Roadmap.
