²ÝÁñÉçÇø

UHF EID tagging could 'revolutionise' livestock industry

A digital database could reduce admin and enhance safety, according to IAAS

Alex Black
clock • 2 min read
UHF EID tagging could 'revolutionise' livestock industry

High frequency electronic tagging is ‘essential' for the future of the livestock industry.

That was the message from the president of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers (IAAS) Alan Hutcheon, as he met with John Lamont, Under Secretary of State for Scotland to demonstrate how it could revolutionise the industry.

Scottish Government was due to announce a date for the compulsory use of ultra-high frequency (UHF) tags in the beef supply chain.

Mr Lamont said it was essential for the future.

Data

"Having a single source digital database of all cattle movements will improve the efficiency and traceability across the supply chain, reduce the administrative burden that surrounds it and enhance animal welfare and staff safety," he said.

See also: A global shortage of vets

"It also has the potential to help reduce red tape around exports and manage disease outbreaks."

He added to appreciate the savings in time and management, and the health and safety of those working in marts, it was crucial to see it in action.

"The reader can quickly record numerous animals at a safe distance. It us quick, it reduces the cross checking and paperwork, and it instantly creates easy traceability throughout the supply chain."

ANM has been working closely with ScotEID, which is developing the technology, to trial UHF electronic tagging in a commercial situation in conjunction with farms and abattoirs.

ANM has seen significant efficiencies, including in the administration of paper passports. While low frequency tags are widely uses, there was still some resistance from farmers and marts to invest in the UHF technology until there was commitment from Scottish Government.

 Mr Hutcheon added: "Paper passports are costing tens of thousands of pounds to produce every year. If we could redeploy these government funds to support farmers and marts in the uptake of ScotEID, it would significantly support the industry to modernise and be more efficient, traceable, and less costly for all."

2007 New Holland T6010

£±Ê°¿´¡

Ex Demo New Holland TH7.32

£±Ê°¿´¡

New JCB 403 AGRI-PLUS Compact Wheeled Loader

£±Ê°¿´¡

More on Livestock

Focus on nutrition needed to extend layer longevity

Focus on nutrition needed to extend layer longevity

Extending egg-laying production comes with many benefits, but feeding regimes should be adapted accordingly to preserve egg quality

clock 13 July 2025 • 3 min read
Free-range pig enterprise delivers real farm to fork journey

Free-range pig enterprise delivers real farm to fork journey

For one Yorkshire pig farmer, gaining control of the supply chain was key in driving her free-range pig enterprise forward and diversifying into a butchery, farm shop and cafe

clock 11 July 2025 • 8 min read
Monitor Farms Scotland: Trialing new technology on Scottish hill farm

Monitor Farms Scotland: Trialing new technology on Scottish hill farm

Virtual fencing is being put to the test long-term on the Strathspey Monitor Farm

Emma Penny
clock 11 July 2025 • 7 min read