Authorities seem to disagree on what, exactly, constitutes this once-popular item. Its source may just be older than 2, or it may have to be castrated, or it may be an elderly female. What is it, and what well-known individual is trying to help revive interest in it?

TabbyTom

I think this is mutton. HRH the Prince of Wales is apparently trying to revive interest in this meat. It is the flesh of an adult sheep (as opposed to a lamb), and the usual definition is that it comes from an animal of at least 2 years of age. Some people, however, have different definitions, e.g. that it must be the flesh of a wether or castrated male. Feb 06 06, 6:42 PM

lanfranco

Yay, TT! Apparently, "mutton" can also come from a ewe past bearing. I was most amused by this issue when I ran across an article about it, but then I had to ask, "Why DON'T people eat mutton any longer?" A quick search of specialty groceries and meat shops in my area turned up the fact that finding mutton is a difficult proposition. The easy availability of lamb in this day and age has pushed mutton into the background. http://www.guardian.co.uk/monarchy/story/0,,1701256,00.html Feb 06 06, 6:47 PM