Feeder Cattle Grades

At what weight does a beef animal grade choice? Research conducted by Fox et al. (Fox, D. G., C. J. Sniffen, J. E. O'Connor, J. B. Russell, P. J. Van Soest - 1992 - A Net Carbohydrate and Protein System for Evaluating Cattle Diets: III. Cattle Requirements and Diet Adequacy. Journal of Animal Science 70:3678-3596) provided the following information showing the relationship of frame size to live weight and carcass weight at choice grade (with 30% carcass fat.)

Table 6. Relationship of Frame Size to Live Weight and
Carcass Weight at Choice Grade (30% Carcass Fat)
  Approximate Weight at Choice Grade, lb
  Steers Heifers
Frame Score Live Carcass* Live Carcass*
1 750 472 600 378
2 850 536 700 441
3 950 598 800 504
4 1050 662 900 567
5 1150 724 1000 630
6 1250 788 1100 693
7 1350 850 1200 756
8 1450 914 1300 819
9 1550 976 1400 882
*Assuming a dressing percent of 63% (hot carcass basis).

* End of chapter - use the next button or the menu link to go to the certification test.

 

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