Importance of maximising carcase value

Producers are reminded that optimising carcase value is an important part of improving margins in cattle and sheep production. Attention to detail throughout production, including animal health, handling and medicine administration, helps minimise avoidable losses. This can help ensure animals achieve their full value potential while meeting the quality standards expected by processors and consumers.

Good injection practices play an important role in protecting meat quality and reducing avoidable trimming at processing. Poor injection technique can lead to tissue damage, bruising or injection site reactions, which may require meat to be removed and can reduce carcase value. Careful administration of veterinary medicines helps maintain animal health while safeguarding product quality.

Most injection site damage can be avoided by following the manufacturer's instructions on dosage, administration method and needle size. Needles should be clean, sharp and replaced regularly, particularly when treating large groups of animals. When intramuscular injections are required, the neck remains the recommended injection site, helping to protect higher-value cuts.

Using the correct technique and handling medicines appropriately reduces the risk of tissue reactions and supports effective treatment outcomes. Attention to injection best practice benefits everyone in the supply chain. It helps maximise carcase value, supports animal welfare standards and ensures consumers continue to receive a high-quality product. By following veterinary advice and product instructions, producers can help protect both their livestock and the reputation of the red meat industry.