Evaluation of Techniques to Estimate Carcass Composition of Beef Cattle

Abstract

Percentages of moisture, fat, protein, and ash were determined on 46 Angus x Angus-Hereford steers, by means of proximate analysis. Urea space, specific gravity, and 9-10-11 rib section proximate analysis were performed and values for moisture, fat and protein were estimated. The composition of the 9-10-11 rib section was determined by three methods: dissection, proximate analysis, and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Specific gravity produced the most precise comparison to chemical composition of the carcass (R2=0.70 for fat and R2=0.33 for CP). Similar relationships were derived between proximate analysis of the 9-10-11 rib section and carcass composition (R2=0.65 for fat and R2=0.39 for CP). Urea space was not successful as an indirect method of empty body composition estimation. The DXA scan was able to accurately predict the composition of the rib section (R2=0.69 and R2=0.71). In review of the results, the present study recommends further investigation and modification of the abovementioned methods.