Michigan farmers marketed 32,500 sheep and lambs in 2000, and sold nearly 3.2 million pounds of meat.

In 2000, approximately 72,000 sheep were shorn to produce 460,000 pounds of wool. Wool is a highly valued clothing product. It resists flames and helps regulate body temperature by maintaining a layer of dry air next to the skin in both cool and warm weather.

Lamb is a healthy source of protein, iron, B vitamins and zinc. A three-ounce serving of lamb contains 76 calories, 78 milligrams of cholesterol and six grams of fat. Grilling is an excellent method for preparing lamb chops. Some people have found that cooking the meat until it is pink in the center brings out the full flavor.

For more information about Michigan sheep, contact:

Michigan Sheep Breeders Association