IoM plans butchery trips

- Published: 20 July, 2009

Two trips to the Continent to see aspects of the European industry are being planned by the UK meat industry’s professional education and training body, the Institute of Meat (IoM).

A trip to Holland to see veal production and tour a major butchery exhibition is planned for September, while young butchers are being invited to attend a butchery skills course, being arranged by the IoM in France in October.

IoM members will meet in Utrecht, Holland to tour Slavakto, the international butchery fair that runs from 28-30 September. The fair comprises a range of company stands alongside butchery competitions in product development and meat cutting, and seminars.

A visit to a veal farm and production plant is also planned.

IoM chairman John Richardson said: “Slavakto is one of the most interesting and popular meat industry events for British butchers, as there is so much to see and do. It is always well-attended and British butchers always do well in the range of competitions that are held.”

Those wishing to join the IoM group should contact the IoM administrator (ali@butchershall.co.uk) by 21 August.

The IoM also plans a week-long visit to the Calais Butchery School for young butchers for October. Participants will be taught a range of craft butchery skills and will also be taken to see aspects of the French industry.

The five-day course is scheduled to run from 4 October.

IoM chairman John Richardson said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for young butchers to gain valuable experience in knife skills and different styles of preparing meat. It will especially useful in understanding the different butchery techniques employed on the Continent, some of which are also used now in the UK industry. I would urge all employers to consider sending their staff on this interesting and valuable course. We think it important enough to fund the costs of course for all students attending.”

Applications to attend are invited from butchers who are aged 17-25. Participants will be responsible for their own travel and accommodation costs, either personally or through their employer. The IoM and the Calais School will arrange the accommodation.

Butchers should apply to join the course by 11 September via the IoM (ali@butchershall.co.uk).