The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), along with the Ulster Farmers’ Union, Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and ABP, has encouraged industry to celebrate Love Lamb Week from 1st September.
The participating levy bodies will deliver a programme of promotional activity under its Make It Lamb campaign which showcases Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured (NIFQA) lamb, with a focus on the people and process behind lamb production as well as the variety of meals that can be made using lamb.
Love Lamb Week will take place from 1st-7th September 2026, and is supported by the National Sheep Association (NSA), the National Farmers’ Union (NFU), NFU Scotland, the Ulster Farmers’ Union and Red Tractor – as well as a wide array of industry supporters and stakeholders.
Lauren Patterson, LMC head of marketing and communications, commented: “Love Lamb Week shines a light on the positive attributes of UK sheep production and we are proud to be joining with our counterparts across the UK to share the ‘Make It Lamb’ campaign. More locally, we are delighted to be working with the UFU, YFCU and ABP to amplify promotional messaging.
“In Northern Ireland we have a hugely positive story to tell where lamb production is concerned. Working collaboratively with our fellow industry partners enables us to tell the full and positive story of NIFQA lamb from farm right through to fork. Throughout the week we will promote NIFQA lamb via a variety of channels, partnering with farmers and food influencers to champion the production standards behind our high-quality lamb and to encourage consumers to cook with and enjoy NIFQA lamb at home. Keep an eye on our LMC and Beef and Lamb NI social media pages throughout the week to see what we get up to.”
“During Love Lamb Week, I would encourage everyone to support our local sheep sector by choosing Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured lamb for a home-cooked meal or selecting a lamb dish when dining out.”
Clement Lynch, UFU
UFU deputy president Clement Lynch stated: “Resilience is a defining characteristic of sheep farmers. Despite operating in one of the most challenging sectors of agriculture, often with limited support, they continue to produce high-quality lamb with dedication, professionalism and pride.
“Sheep farming is a year-round commitment. Beyond delivering a world-class food product, sheep farmers play a vital role in sustaining rural communities, supporting the environment, enhancing biodiversity, sequestering carbon and contributing significantly to Northern Ireland’s economy.
“Lamb is not only delicious, but also a highly nutritious source of quality protein, vitamins and minerals. Despite its many benefits, lamb consumption continues to decline across the UK. During Love Lamb Week, I would encourage everyone to support our local sheep sector by choosing Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured (FQAS) lamb for a home-cooked meal or selecting a lamb dish when dining out. By doing so, you are backing the hardworking farmers who strive every day to produce a world-class product to the highest standards.”
YFCU president Kristina Fleming added: “Love Lamb Week is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate our sheep farmers and showcase the quality, versatility, and provenance of Northern Ireland lamb. Our YFCU members, Joshua and Allister, are proud to play a part in promoting the excellent produce that is produced on farms across Northern Ireland.
“It is important that we continue to tell the story behind our food, from the hard work of our farmers and the high standards they work to, through to the delicious meals that can be enjoyed by consumers. We are delighted to work alongside LMC, UFU and ABP to champion NIFQA lamb and encourage everyone to support local farmers by choosing locally produced lamb.”
George Mullan, managing director of ABP in Northern Ireland, said: “We are delighted to support the Livestock and Meat Commission’s initiative, Love Lamb Week. We welcome the wide range of promotional activities and events designed to build consumer awareness and confidence in Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured Lamb. The diverse landscape of our countryside undoubtedly highlights the special relationship between the land, our sheep farmers and our consumers.”
