As a result of Covid-19, Muscle and Fat (M&F) scanning has not been able to commence as normal for the 2021 season. Sheep Ireland have decided with respect to public health and safety regarding Covid-19 and as we are now in the second week of June, we have decided not to carry out any M&F scanning for 2021 as such a high proportion of the recording flocks would not be able to access the service and perhaps putting their flock at a disadvantage in the sales ring.

How to reduce the impact of not scanning

While flocks will not be M&F scanning this year, it is still important that all flocks still record a 150 day (scanning) weight. To see the best dates to weigh the lambs in your flock click here. This 150 day weight is still part of the DQI and an important weight in the evaluations.

Impact on the DQI

The DQI points traditionally allocated to M&F scanning have been removed from the DQI ahead of the sale season with those points being distributed amongst the remaining elements of the index. This was also done last year. This will ensure that no flock will have its DQI negatively impacted for not M&F scanning this year.

Impact on the LambPlus Sale entry criteria

M&F scanning in 2021 will not be an entry criteria for the LambPlus Sale. We are working with the Kilkenny Mart to come up with the best solution to maximise the number to buyers and sellers while also taking the social distancing protocols into account for everyone’s safety. To find out what the entry criteria for the LambPlus Sale 2021 are please click here.