Strong demand has helped push exports of sheep meat offal up to the £3.5 million mark despite lower production, according to EBLEX.

In the first nine months of 2012, UK exports of sheep meat offal were up almost a third to 2,900 tonnes, even though domestic production fell by 5% in the same period as a result of 6% fewer sheep being slaughtered.

The average unit value has also increased significantly so far this year. At more than £1,200 per tonne, the average unit value of offal exports has grown by 9% on the year.

Paul Heyhoe, EBLEX/AHDB market specialist, said: “With considerable growth in volumes and the stronger prices being received, the overall value of sheep meat offal exports has risen by 44% on the year to total £3.5 million.

“As such, offal exports are providing a welcome boost at a time when lower domestic sheep meat production is limiting lamb export volumes.”

This story was originally published on a previous version of the Meat Management website and so there may be some missing images and formatting issues.