Beef producers invited to learn how GB Calf Strategy supports sustainable beef production

Beef producers attending the National Beef Associations’ Beef Expo on 30 May are being encouraged to join an industry panel question and answer session to learn how the GB Calf Strategy is supporting sustainable beef production and helping more calves reach their full potential.

Beef producers attending the National Beef Associations’ Beef Expo on 30 May are being encouraged to join an industry panel question and answer session to learn how the GB Calf Strategy is supporting sustainable beef production and helping more calves reach their full potential.

Chaired by Sarah Tomlinson, lead veterinary science expert at AHDB, the session will look at how the beef and dairy-beef supply chain can work together to improve calf health, welfare and performance, whilst meeting demand.

“With food security high on the agenda, it is vital that the beef and dairy-beef supply chain works together to make the most of every calf born in Great Britain,” says Sarah.

“This strategy not only helps farmers make the most of the current high beef prices, it also shows how we can reduce reliance on imported beef and cut waste by making sure calves with the right potential are given the right start.”

The GB Calf Strategy 2025-2030 was created with industry input from 45 farmers, vets, processors, retailers and industry bodies and aims to ensure every calf is reared with ‘care, purpose and value’.

Since 2014, dairy-beef calf registrations have risen by 74% and in 2024 dairy-beef animals accounted for 37% of prime cattle slaughtered, demonstrating the progress already being made across the sector.

The industry panel will discuss what the strategy means for beef rearers, finishers and suckler producers, including how improved calf health, better genetics and clearer supply chain collaboration can support more consistent, predictable and efficient beef production.

Sarah says the session will be particularly relevant for farmers sourcing calves and those involved in integrated supply chains.

“The strategy provides a framework for the whole supply chain to support the dairy sector in producing calves that are fit for purpose and able to perform well in beef systems,” she says.

“For beef producers, that results in having greater confidence that calves have the potential to grow efficiently, deliver good carcase quality and meet market requirements.

“We want farmers to feel confident asking the right questions when sourcing calves, including around disease status, colostrum management, vaccinations, testing and the wider health history of those animals.”

AHDB lead animal genetics expert, Harriet Bunning, will also join the discussion to explain how data is being used to support dairy farmers in selecting the right genetics, helping ensure calves entering the beef supply chain are robust, healthy and capable of reaching their genetic potential.