Lamb and Mutton Meat – Differences, Nutrition, and Eid Al-Adha Traditions

Ruminant animals such as sheep, goats, cattle, and camels are among the most important sources of animal wealth in the Islamic world. These herbivores chew grass, regurgitate it during rest, and re-chew it with their molars for digestion. At Meat & More, we offer the finest lamb and mutton cuts, fresh local and imported livestock, and premium butchery services to meet every customer’s needs.

🌙 Lamb as a Sacrifice in Eid Al-Adha

Eid Al-Adha is one of the most significant Islamic holidays, where Muslims sacrifice sheep, goats, cattle, or camels to commemorate the story of Prophet Ibrahim and his son Isma’il. Conditions for a valid lamb sacrifice include:

• The lamb must be at least six months old.
• It should be free from defects or imperfections that affect meat quality.
• Sacrifice should take place after the Eid prayer until sunset of the fourth day of Eid (third day of Tashreeq).

🐑 What is Lamb? What is Mutton?

Both lamb and mutton come from sheep, but each has unique qualities and flavors.

Sheep Characteristics:

• Dense wool covering the body (fleece).
• Young sheep are called lambs.
• Heavy body weight and downward tails.
• Typically give birth to one offspring at a time.
• Males are rams, females are ewes.

Goat Characteristics (for comparison):

• Soft hair instead of wool.
• Lean body and lighter weight.
• Produce more milk than sheep.
• Tails curve upward.
• Frequently give birth to twins.
• Males are bucks, females are does.

🥩 Mutton Meat (Woolly Sheep)

Mutton is widely consumed during Eid Al-Adha. It is known for its rich flavor, tenderness, and excellent nutritional profile:

• High in protein, vitamin B12, selenium, iron, zinc, and phosphorus.
• Supports immune health, prevents anemia, and strengthens bones.
• Contains omega-3 fatty acids beneficial for children’s brain development.
• Helps with weight management due to lower calories and fat content.
• Maintains hair and skin health, slowing down aging signs.
• Boosts testosterone, muscle mass, and energy metabolism.

🥩 Lamb Meat (Hair-Clad)

Lamb meat is leaner and lighter, but equally beneficial:

• Low in calories, fat, and cholesterol.
• Strengthens the immune system and disease resistance.
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins (A, B, C, D), and minerals.
• Ideal for children and brain development.
• Supports healthy hair, skin freshness, and anti-aging.
• Promotes red blood cell formation and prevents anemia.

📏 The Age of a Lamb

A lamb is considered in its prime between 8–9 months of age. Its age can be determined by examining its teeth:

• Small, even teeth → about 1 year old.
• Front teeth longer than the rest → older than 1 year (called a "Thanna").
• Four front teeth equally long → called a "Rubba".

Prime-age lamb is highly valued for its tender meat, making it the top choice for chefs and meat lovers.

Consumer Awareness Team – Meat & More