Field trials reading between the lines

The NSA organised field trials in preparation for an EU fact-finding team, due to start talks in the UK on Monday. Manufacturers agreed to take part on the understanding they would not be identified.

The trials took place on a lamb-finishing unit in an open-air handling system. Reading equipment makers set up their own systems, powered by portable batteries.

Several hundred store lambs sourced from all over the UK were read by three race readers as well as hand-held stick readers. There were numerous different types of tags, including some non-electronic slaughter tags.

The total number of lambs was 536. The number with non-EID tags or tags missing was 100. The best race reader correctly read 99 per cent of the rest, ie 432 of 436. The best stick reader read 98.5 per cent, ie 430.

There were four electronic tags which no equipment could read, all from the same manufacturer.

Several lambs had ears which had clearly been infected as a result of tagging. Some tags were too close to the edge of the ear and would be easily lost.

Users of stick readers commented that the Scottish decision not to mandate yellow as the colour for electronic tags made their job more challenging.

NSA chief executive Peter Morris said: “This trial has shown there is reading equipment out there that is very good and other equipment that needs further work. However, this trial has also shown in the most graphic terms the critical importance of having tolerance within the EID regulations.

“The reliability and quality of the EID tag is paramount, and the fact there were four tags, all of the same type, which could not be read by any equipment, is a considerable concern. It is not clear at this stage whether this is due to a faulty batch of microchips or a failing in the tag design.

“Farmers must not be penalised because the equipment cannot deliver perfect results.”