FSA to consult on revised small abattoir support system

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) Board has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small abattoirs, with the small abattoir discount covering up to 90% of meat inspection charges remaining in place and a public consultation on a revised support system set for 2026.

The decision comes amid ongoing pressures on the sector, with the number of small abattoirs in England and Wales down to just 47.

Without financial support, industry groups estimate that up to 40% of these businesses could face closure, threatening local supply chains, animal welfare, and the sustainability of rare livestock breeds.

See also: Industry welcomes retention of discount for meat inspection charges

Currently, abattoirs are charged based on veterinary hours rather than the number of animals processed, making costs per animal disproportionately high for smaller operations.

The discount applied to smaller abattoirs ensures that these businesses can remain viable while meeting legal inspection requirements, which protect public health and support UK meat exports.

The new consultation, expected in spring 2026, will focus on a more targeted system of support.

Under the proposals, the smallest abattoirs would continue to receive maximum financial relief, with a 90% discount on charges.

This includes those processing up to 1,000 livestock units a year for red meat, or 150,000 birds annually for poultry.

Tapered support

Medium-sized operations would benefit from tapered support, however the largest facilities would no longer receive discounts.

Insights from the FSA’s call for evidence and engagement with farming and sustainability groups highlight the vital role of small abattoirs in local communities, rare breed conservation, and consumer choice.

The Sustainable Food Trust (SFT), which has long campaigned for the survival of small abattoirs, welcomed the FSA’s decision to hold a consultation on proposals for a revised discount that would mean smaller abattoirs continue to receive support.

An SFT spokesman said: “Without the current discount many smaller abattoirs would have no choice but to close, vastly reducing an already shrinking sector and with catastrophic implications for the future of local meat.

“While we are relieved that proposals will see continued support for smaller abattoirs, it is crucial that businesses are given certainty and this will not be achieved without a wider review of the FSA inspection regime, which has been called for by all meat industry trade bodies.”

The SFT urged all stakeholders across the meat and farming sectors to respond to the public consultation when it is launched.

The FSA consultation will give businesses and the public the opportunity to shape the final proposals that the board will present to ministers later in 2026.