Oliver Moore: Many obstacles to lamb profitability

In the past two weeks, I have explored the poor financial returns from organic lamb, notably lamb from upland areas (except Wicklow) and western counties, writes Oliver Moore.

There are several factors that result in just three of every 10 organic lambs generating an organic price premium. Along with obvious issues of weight, consistency of supply and factors already outlined, other issues that have emerged.

In export terms the exceptionally high standard required for organic babyfood is at present prohibitive to Irish organic lamb producers. What this means is that while there is a baseline certified organic standard, European babyfood companies operate to a higher standard.