This week's factory quotes sees most processors hold their beef price offers at the same level as last week, with trade generally on firm footing.

Brazilian beef as well as other products are set to be banned from the EU from Thursday, September 3, just 17 days from today, Monday, August 17.

The European Commission has said that to be re-included on the list of third countries authorised to export beef and other products to the EU, Brazil must ensure compliance with EU requirements on the use of antimicrobials.

It remains to be seen what impact, if any, this will have on beef prices paid to farmers but approximately 407t of beef, valued at €2,261,000 was imported to Ireland from Brazil from January to May of this year.

Factory cattle procurement staff have told Agriland that beef traders will now be watching the UK to see if it will adapt a similar position to the EU on Brazilian beef imports.

Factory quotes: Heifers and steers

This week, heifers are generally being quoted at €6.40-€6.50/kg on the grid with the higher offers more common.

Steers (bullocks) are being quoted at €6.30-€6.40/kg on the grid and again, the higher offers are more common this week.

The latest official prices paid by factories are available to view here.

Changes to the Angus and Hereford breed bonus are set to be introduced at ABP and Kepak sites from Monday, September 7.

Factory cattle procurement staff are saying that there is currently no issues with cattle availability and kill sheets are well filled out for this week and into next week already.

Cow price

Plainer, short fleshed cows have eased in price but fattened cows with flesh and carcass-weights above 270kg are firm.

Fleshed 'P' grade cows are being quoted at €5.90/kg this week in general, with other outlets offering €5.70-€5.80/kg for 'P' grade cows.

'O' grade cows are being quoted at €6.00/kg, and again, some of the lower offers are coming in at €5.80/kg for 'O' grade cows.

'R' grade cows are being quoted at €6.30/kg, and 'U' grade cows are being quoted at €6.40/kg.

Bulls

Under-24-month bulls are being quoted at €6.70/kg for 'U' grades, with €6.60/kg tabled for 'R' grade bulls.

'O' grade bulls are being quoted at €6.40/kg and 'P' grade bulls are being quoted at €6.30/kg.

Under-16-month bulls are being quoted at €6.40/kg on the grid.