4: Beef Identification and Fabrication
- Page ID
- 20804
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Beef is the meat of domesticated cattle. Most of the beef Americans eat comes from steers, which are male cattle castrated as calves and specifically raised for beef. Although Americans are consuming less beef today in comparison to past eating habits, we still consume far more beef than any other meat. The beef we are eating is leaner than that of years past attributable to advances in animal husbandry and closer trimming of exterior fat.
- 4.1: Primal and Subprimal Beef Cuts
- The primal cuts of beef are the chuck, brisket and shank, rib, short plate, short loin, sirloin, flank and round. It is important to know the location of bones when cutting or working with meats. This makes meat fabrication and carving easier and aids in identifying cuts. An entire beef carcass can range in weight from 500 to more than 800 pounds (225 to 360 kg).
- 4.2: Inspection and Grading of Meat and Poultry - What Are the Differences?
- The inspection and grading of meat and poultry are two separate programs within the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Inspection for wholesomeness is mandatory and is paid for with public funds. Grading for quality is voluntary, and the service is requested and paid for by meat and poultry producers/processors.