DairyCo

Slaughter Statistics

Published 23 January 12

Slaughter Statistics

The latest slaughter statistics published by Defra indicate that the UK cow slaughterings in December 2011 totalled 45,863 head. At this level cow slaughterings declined by 25% compared with the previous month. The number of heifers slaughtered during December also recorded a decline compared with the month earlier to 57,964 head, down 12%.

Compared with the corresponding month a year ago cull cows throughputs at UK abattoirs were 10% higher, while heifer throughputs only increased marginally on the year.

 The average dressed carcase weight of cows increased marginally between November 2011 and December 2011. However, this was 1% lower compared with December 2010.  In contrast, carcase weight of heifers increased by 1% month on month, but fell by similar amount compared with the corresponding month last year.  

 Source: Defra

Please note, when making comparisons that monthly figures are based on the statistical periods.