FSA to Consult on Revised Small Abattoir Support System
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has announced a consultation on a revised support system for small abattoirs in England and Wales, aimed at improving viability and resilience within the sector. The move comes amid ongoing concerns about the decline in the number of small-scale slaughterhouses and the implications for local supply chains and rural economies.
Under the proposals, the FSA is seeking industry feedback on a range of measures designed to streamline regulatory requirements, improve access to technical and business support, and help smaller operations manage compliance costs.
Representatives from producer groups and meat processors have welcomed the initiative, but cautioned that support mechanisms must be practical, adequately resourced and carefully aligned with existing food safety obligations. If adopted, revised support could help rebalance pressures between larger facilities and smaller abattoirs that service niche markets, speciality processors and local food businesses.
Source: Farmers Weekly | Date: 12/12/2025
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