The Quality Standard Scheme

The EBLEX Ltd Quality Standard Scheme is the UK's leading beef and lamb quality assurance scheme.

Launched in 2005 by the English Beef and Lamb Executive, the Quality Standard Scheme is based on existing farm and foodchain assurance schemes, such as Assured Food Standards (Red Tractor). It is currently the only UK scheme for beef and lamb which includes an eating quality requirement. Research has shown that eating quality – namely the tenderness and succulence of meat - is a key issue for consumers.

This is why the Quality Standard Scheme uses the latest scientific knowledge to exclude certain types of animal - based on factors such as age and seasonality - to help ensure consistent eating quality. The specification also includes a minimum maturation period where appropriate.

The Quality Standard Scheme forms an important part of the wider strategy of EBLEX Ltd. It sets out to differentiate quality beef and lamb from commodity product, helping to build a long term, positive business environment for producers and the industry.

EBLEX has recently signed up celebrity chefs Angela Hartnett and Oliver Rowe as Ambassadors for Quality Standard beef and lamb.