Quality Assurance

The Processor Assurance Scheme is an essential element in the Quality Meat Scotland (QMS) ‘whole chain’ consumer assurance programme.

Only approved members of the Processor Assurance Scheme can process cattle, sheep and pigs which are destined for the Scotch Beef UKGI, Scotch Lamb UKGI and Specially Selected Pork brands. On site animal welfare officers ensure animals are handled correctly, with due care and concern for their welfare at all times. Only specially trained and competent personnel are authorised to handle livestock, which ensures humane animal treatment, minimises stress to the animal and optimises meat quality for which the brands are renowned. Animal welfare and wellbeing are of paramount importance in ensuring the highest product quality. The QMS Animal Welfare and Wellbeing Charter recognises the five freedoms of animal welfare and wellbeing and is a guiding principle for all QMS assurance schemes, which are supported and approved by the Scottish SPCA, Scotland’s independent animal welfare charity. The Processor Assurance Scheme is owned by QMS who have contracted Food Integrity Assurance, an independent inspection and certification company, to carry out the required assessments in order to certify and approve scheme members.