Have you ever wondered about the total beef carcass weight of the weekly cattle slaughter? While the number of cattle slaughtered per week is often publicly available, the actual weight of the beef carcasses is not always shared. At a recent Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) meeting in Cootehill, Co. Cavan, concerns were raised about this discrepancy. Farmers were told that the kill numbers were increasing, but the weight of the beef was decreasing significantly. This discrepancy raised questions about the transparency of information provided by factories to farmers.
The senior manager of the meat and livestock team at Bord Bia, Joe Burke, confirmed that there has been a notable reduction in carcass weight this year. This reduction is attributed to several factors, including the increasing number of dairy-bred animals in the kill compared to suckler-bred animals. Additionally, the challenging grazing conditions in 2024 delayed the cattle’s access to grass, impacting their overall growth and weight.
The data provided by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) shows the average carcass weights for different categories of cattle for the week ending September 22, 2024. A comparison with the same week in 2023 reveals a decrease in average weights for steers, cows, and heifers. This decline in weight can have implications for both farmers and consumers, affecting profitability and meat quality.
### Average Carcass Weights for Week 38 (2024 vs. 2023)
– Young Bull: 346kg (2024) vs. 350kg (2023)
– Bull: 471kg (2024) vs. 466kg (2023)
– Steer: 346kg (2024) vs. 354kg (2023)
– Cow: 291kg (2024) vs. 292kg (2023)
– Heifer: 303kg (2024) vs. 310kg (2023)
The decline in average carcass weights highlights a concerning trend in the industry. With over 38,000 cattle slaughtered in the week ending September 22, the cumulative kill for the year has exceeded 2.26 million heads (excluding veal). While this year’s total beef kill surpasses last year’s numbers by over 26,800, market forecasts suggest a tightening of cattle supplies in the final quarter of 2024.
The call for transparency regarding weekly beef carcass weights is crucial for farmers to make informed decisions about their livestock and market trends. Understanding the trends in carcass weights can help farmers adjust their breeding and feeding practices to meet market demands effectively. It can also provide valuable insights for consumers concerned about the quality and sustainability of beef products.
As the industry navigates challenges such as fluctuating carcass weights, it is essential for stakeholders to collaborate and address the underlying issues. By promoting transparency and data sharing, farmers, processors, and regulators can work together to ensure a sustainable and thriving beef industry in Australia.
In conclusion, the discussion around weekly beef carcass weights sheds light on the importance of transparency and data-driven decision-making in the agricultural sector. By highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the industry, stakeholders can work towards sustainable solutions that benefit both producers and consumers. Stay informed about the latest developments in the beef industry and join the conversation on how we can support a thriving agricultural community. Subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter for more insights and updates on the Australian livestock market.
