North Ronaldsay in the Orkneys is recognised for producing distinctively flavoured mutton. This low-fat meat with a wonderful tradition and heritage is now exported off the island as Mey Selections North Ronaldsay Mutton.
North Ronaldsay sheep are unique and only exist in their true and natural form in Orkney’s Ultima Thule, the sea swept island of North Ronaldsay. It is thought the breed is 5000 years old. Over many centuries, the flock has evolved without interference or cross breeding. The sheep live wild on the rocks of the exposed Atlantic shoreline of North Ronaldsay.
In 1832 the Laird of North Ronaldsay decided his pastureland should not be wasted on native sheep and a dyke was built round the island to keep them on the shore. Gaining its unique flavour from the seaweed diet the North Ronaldsay sheep thrive on, the meat has a distinct ‘gamey taste.’ It is lean and, because of the seaweed diet, is full of iodine - sometimes termed as nature’s antibiotic. Arguably, it’s a natural health food.
