Herds reared for meat are diminishing (reduction in the number of sheep farms by 43% between 1988 and 2000).

Production by French farmers covered only 44% of consumption in 2000. The United Kingdom was France’s leading supplier of lamb/mutton in 2003.
Price of lamb on production: 4.82 € / kg in 2003
 
On the other hand milk-producing populations have increased (valorisation of the milk due to AOC cheese outlets).
 
::: Breeds
30% of ewes are the result of cross-breeding.
The most commonly found breeds:
1. Lacaune
2. Blanc du Massif central
3. Texel