Overview
Welcome to Red Tractor’s consultation on changes to the Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Standards.
We’re inviting feedback on proposed changes to the Standards until .
This feedback will be shared with the Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Sector Board and Technical Advisory Committee for their consideration before updates to the standards are confirmed in 2027.
We value input from all stakeholders, particularly feedback that will help us to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of farm assessments.
We value input from all stakeholders, particularly feedback that will help us to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of farm assessments.
How changes have been developed
The proposed changes have been developed through a comprehensive line-by-line review of standards by the Red Tractor Beef & Lamb Technical Advisory Committee, and agreed in principle by the Beef & Lamb Sector Board. These committees are made up of representatives from across the beef & lamb supply chain including farmers, auctioneers, processors, vets, and retailers.
The changes aim to deliver the priorities set by the Sector Board in December 2025. They incorporate feedback received on these priorities as well as through targeted consultation with industry groups including APHA, BCVA, SVS, retailers and processors.
The changes aim to deliver the priorities set by the Sector Board in December 2025. They incorporate feedback received on these priorities as well as through targeted consultation with industry groups including APHA, BCVA, SVS, retailers and processors.
The objectives of the review of the Beef & Lamb Standards are to:
- Rebuild farmer trust by improving efficiency and reducing burden while maintaining audit integrity
- Ensure the scheme evolves to meet market and trade requirements
- Align standards and regulatory requirements with Red Tractor’s Vision and Purpose
Ensure the standards and assessment process:
- Support consumer confidence in British beef and lamb
- Support long term viability and competitiveness of UK beef and lamb sectors
In addition to reviewing standards, Red Tractor is also reviewing assessment cycles and ways to make better use of third-party data.
Summary of the proposed changes
The proposed changes reduce the existing Beef & Lamb Standards from 105 standards 265 audit points to 106 standards and 153 audit points. This change reflects a significant reduction in the number of audit points that members will be assessed to and has been achieved by consolidating and rationalising requirements. To ensure standards remain fit for the future, the Technical Advisory Committee is also recommending a small number of additional requirements that follow best practice guidance on pain relief and
nutrient management.
nutrient management.
Take part in the consultation
Click the link below to take part in the consultation.
Once you’ve provided information about yourself, you’ll be able to review proposed changes to each section of the standards and share your feedback. You can provide feedback for as many sections as you like. There is also an option to give overall feedback. You can return to edit your feedback at any time until the closing date by choosing to save and continue.
Share Your Views
Share your views by completing our survey. Your feedback is important and will help inform our decisions.
Tell us what you think