Irish Carcase Pricing System Faces Scrutiny
Irish Beef Price Grids Questioned Over Carcase Value Gap
Concerns are mounting within the Irish beef sector that current carcase price grids no longer reflect the true market value of higher-quality cattle.
According to reporting by the Irish Farmers Journal, industry analysis suggests that the pricing differentials between grades have not kept pace with the substantial rise in overall beef prices. As a result, producers of better-conformed and higher-spec animals may not be receiving proportionate returns.
Price grids are central to how Irish factories determine payment, with premiums and penalties applied based on grade, conformation and fat score. However, critics argue that the relative spread between grades has remained largely static despite strong headline beef price movements.
Producers claim that this structure disadvantages those investing in genetics and finishing systems designed to deliver superior carcases. The debate is likely to intensify as tight cattle supplies continue to support overall beef prices.
Source: Irish Farmers Journal | 21 February 2026
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