Value of Conformation in New Zealand Beef Grading

J.J. Bass, C. Robinson and F. Colomer-Rocher

Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, Hamilton

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Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production. 1977, 37: 82-88

Three systems for evaluating carcass conformation were tested on 230 crossbred steers. The NZ export grading 2-point system and a 7-point conformation classification system failed to separate carcasses with higher percentages of retail meat from those with lower percentages, unlike the Meat and Livestock Commission (M.L.C.) classification which was able to select carcasses with high percentages of lean meat. Objective measurements of area and depth of the hind limb were also significantly related to percentage meat. It is suggested that the M.L.C. area and depth conformation measurements may be useful in a beef classification system. The area measurements have the added advantage that they could be included in an automated grading system.

Keywords: NZSAPAB;

Last Updated 24-08-2000