Delegates from the US sheep industry will visit the UK next week in a bid to quell myths and build a better understanding of the sector here.
Organised by the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB), the six-day inward mission includes tours of numerous farms, supermarkets, a livestock market and food processors.
British lamb has recently enjoyed a high profile, featuring as the main dish during President Trump’s state visit.
During his recent visit to the UK, the US president was served Windsor estate lamb at a state banquet given in his honour by Her Majesty the Queen.
The delegation – which consists of sheep industry officials, producers and academics – will also spend a day at the NSA Sheep South West event in Devon to see the variety of different breeds, engage with farmers and meet with industry stakeholders.
AHDB senior export manager Susana Morris said the visit was the perfect platform to showcase the UK industry and also better understand US sheep production.
As both countries strive to increase consumption, the visit will also provide an opportunity to discuss strategy.
Morris said: “This is an incredibly important visit as it will provide us with the opportunity to highlight the exceptional standard and taste of UK lamb.
There are some misconceptions around our sheep industry within the American marketplace and we are looking to rectify that.
“During the visit, the delegates will get first-hand insight into the production process within the UK – covering everything from farm to fork.
“We will look at animal welfare, innovation on products, traceability, genetics and the benefits of grass-fed lamb.
“We hope this mission will help our visitors return to the US with a great deal of confidence in the meat we produce.”
