Sir: ‘Horsegate’ has thrown a spotlight on the entire meat processing chain. The response of many supermarkets - to state they will be taking steps to ensure the rigour of their supply with more domestically produced and sourced meat - is to be applauded.

Central to any such move is the appreciation that the vast majority of beef, lamb and pork produced and slaughtered in the UK undergoes independent assessment and classification in the abattoir, so providing verification and traceability that can be the foundation of a more robust supply chain.

MLCSL provides classification and verification services to more than 100 abattoirs nationwide, including all the major slaughterhouse businesses in the UK. The presence of such a service can help demonstrate the integrity the consumer requires and will provide a resource for any more rigorous testing required in the future.

Nick Kirby, MD, MLCSL

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