Welsh Beef joins Welsh Lamb in Oritain traceability deal

10-May-2021 - Last updated on 10-May-2021 at 10:58 GMT

Oritain uses forensic science and statistical models to trace and verify product

Welsh Beef has joined Welsh Lamb in being traced and authenticated by food technology specialists Oritain, working in partnership with Hybu Cig Cymru – Meat Promotion Wales (HCC).

HCC said with their Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) and international premium brands, Welsh Lamb and Welsh Beef are among the most sought-after meats by consumers and top chefs.

In 2018, HCC formed a pioneering partnership with food technology specialists Oritain to protect Welsh Lamb's credentials and reputation by authenticating genuine products through forensic science. After the success of this award-winning programme, they are now set to expand its reach to include Welsh Beef, providing an extra layer of reassurance to an already strong system of traceability from farm to fork.

Wales is known for its sustainable, low-intensity agriculture based on the country’s outstanding natural environment. Using land unsuited for other food production and plentiful natural resources of grass and rainwater, top-quality beef and lamb is produced with far fewer emissions than many other farming systems across the globe.

Forensic science and statistical models

Specialist in scientific traceability Oritain uses a combination of forensic science and statistical models to trace and analyse the origin of products and raw materials. It analyses the naturally-occurring elements in Welsh Beef that the cattle absorb from their environment.

This forensic science is the same science that’s been used in the criminal investigations field for more than 40 years. It does not rely on extra barcodes or packaging. The product can be tested at any point in the supply chain.

That means Welsh farmers can trust the quality meat they rear and sell—and the reputation this affords—is protected as it moves through the supply chain.

“Since we took the bold step of partnering with Oritain to provide an extra layer of scientific assurance to our strong system of traceability for Welsh Lamb—the first PGI meat product to take this step—we’ve been delighted with the results," said Gwyn Howells, HCC chief executive.

'Proved supply chain integrity'

"They have proved that our supply chain has an exceptionally high degree of integrity, and the partnership was recognised with a top food technology award in 2019.

“Now we’re proud to take the next step and expand our partnership to include Welsh Beef as well as Welsh Lamb. This system, which is simpler than DNA testing and doesn’t rely on barcodes or labels, will give the ultimate reassurance to clients at home and abroad.”

Oritain chief executive Grant Cochrane said: “HCC has always been a progressive, forward thinking organisation. We can see this in their PGI status, the work they do in-market raising awareness of Welsh meat, and with their emphasis on quality and authenticity."

"That’s why they partnered with us back in 2018 and why they are now expanding this partnership to Welsh Beef.”