Tongues from Irish cattle under 30 months are fetching a premium price in the Japanese market.

Joe Burke from Bord Bia’s meat division said countries such as Japan are favouring grass-fed markets for beef products.

He highlighted the importance of the Asian markets in terms of beef exports and, in particular, the offal market. Burke was addressing an Aurivo Mart weanling demonstration.

Burke, who visited Japan as part of a promotional campaign, said there is massive potential in these markets.

These countries have normally sourced beef from countries that finish animals in grain-fed feetlot systems and grass-fed beef is a new concept to get across.

Burke said: “Currently, nearly all Irish cattle tongues from under-30-month cattle are going to the Japanese market and are currently making $11/kg.