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Irish farmers could soon avail of a new 100% pasture-fed certification scheme, which is in operation in the UK.
The ‘Pasture for Life’ certification scheme was developed by the Pasture-Fed Livestock Association and provides a guarantee that an animal has been fed on 100% pasture for the whole of its life.
Grass vs pasture
The scheme, which is open to beef, sheep and dairy farmers, draws a distinction between grass-fed and pasture-fed livestock.
According to the association, pasture describes a variety of plant species, including grasses, herbs, wildflowers and clovers.
Grass is often a single species. The scheme also prohibits the use of any grain in the diets.
Irish farmers
Attendees of the 2019 NOTS BioFarm conference in Portlaoise this week heard the details of the scheme from Russ Carrington, who explained that a number of Irish farmers are now looking for certification.
Certified meat or dairy products are sold at select locations and are commanding a premium, Carrington explained.
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