Farm to fork: Northern Ireland showcases world-class lamb in Love Lamb Week 2025

(L-R) Keith Williamson , ABP, Campbell Tweed, UFU and Colin Smith LMC.

The rich flavour, quality, and versatility of Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured (NIFQA) lamb will take centre stage from 1–7 September 2025, as farmers, processors and industry leaders unite for Love Lamb Week – a UK-wide campaign celebrating the very best of British and Northern Irish lamb.

The initiative is being driven locally by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC), the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU), and ABP Linden, with a programme of promotional activity showcasing lamb’s nutritional benefits, sustainability, and farm-to-fork story.

Colin Smith, LMC Chief Executive, said:

“Love Lamb Week is about celebrating everything that makes Northern Ireland’s lamb exceptional, the dedication of our farmers, our high standards, and of course, the incredible flavour.

“This year LMC will once again be delivering a campaign across radio, press, and digital channels to encourage more people to enjoy lamb and shine a light on the hard work of the farmers that goes into producing it.”

Celebrating taste and tradition

As part of the week-long initiative, radio adverts will highlight lamb’s flavour, versatility, and nutritional value, while LMC’s social media channels will feature recipe ideas, cooking tips, and behind-the-scenes farming content.

Lauren Patterson, LMC Head of Marketing and Communications, added:

“With the valued support of UFU and ABP, we want this year’s campaign to give consumers a real insight into how NIFQA lamb is produced, and inspire them to make it a trusted favourite in their kitchens.

“We want to remind people that lamb is a delicious, easy-to-cook ingredient that works for every occasion, whether it is a quick family meal or something special for the weekend.”

Supporting farmers and rural communities

Love Lamb Week also offers an important opportunity to highlight the high animal welfare and environmental standards underpinning Northern Ireland’s lamb production.

UFU deputy president Glenn Cuddy said:

“Love Lamb Week is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the dedication of our sheep farmers, who work tirelessly to produce top-quality lamb to world-leading standards. Their commitment results in a nutritious, local product packed with benefits like high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, all delivered through a short, traceable supply chain that guarantees freshness and great taste.

“This week also shines a spotlight on what is involved in lamb production, as well as the vital role sheep farming plays in shaping and sustaining Northern Ireland’s landscape, supporting rural communities and boosting our local economy.”

Farm to fork focus

Highlighting the value of strong industry partnerships, ABP Linden reaffirmed its commitment to supporting local farmers.

Keith Williamson of ABP Linden commented:

“We are delighted to be a key stakeholder in Love Lamb Week. The exciting line-up of planned promotional activity is designed to connect consumers with the great farm-to-fork story behind our produce. We only procure from Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured sheep farmers, whose outstanding credentials speak for themselves.”

For updates and inspiration throughout the campaign, consumers can follow the LMC on Facebook (LivestockandMeatCommissionNI), X (@LMCNI), and Instagram (@Beefandlamb.ni).