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Classification

Carcase classification provides the common language for communicating carcase quality through the supply chain.  Within the European Union, pig carcase classification methods are required to estimate lean meat percentage of the carcase.  In Great Britain, the following methods have been approved for use:

  • Intrascope or optical probe
  • Fat-O-Meater (FOM)
  • Hennessey Grading Probe
  • CSB Ultra-Meater
  • Autofom

The most recent of these to achieve approval was the Autofom – a fully automatic method based on ultrasound scanning of the carcase.  The approval process was funded by BPEX and Defra and the opportunity was taken to re-evaluate the existing probes in use, resulting in updated lean meat percentage equations.

Autofom

Autofom is a fully automated device, which measures 3,200 fat and muscle depths per carcase using a digitised, three-dimensional ultrasonic scanner. The scanning pattern is provided by 16, 2 MHz transducers embedded approximately 25 mm apart in a U-shaped formation.  This U-shaped formation is embedded in a cradle, which supports the carcase as it is automatically pulled over the transducers.  Measurements are recorded every 5mm along the length of the carcase.  These measurements are then used to predict the carcase composition.

The approval process involved the selection of 120 carcases representative the GB population for dissection according to agreed EU dissection method.  From the data produced, an equation was established for the use of AutoFOM for prediction of lean meat percentage in the carcase.  During the dissection exercise, the opportunity was also taken to re-evaluate the existing carcase classification devices for their ability to predict lean meat percentage.

As a result of this research Commission Decisions 2003/750 and 2004/370 were published, authorising Autofom and the newly established equations for classification devices currently in use in Great Britain.

The predicted lean meat percentage using the new equations is higher than that using the previously approved equations by 2.5 to 3.4 percentage points on average.  These changes in lean meat percentage are attributed to a combination of changes in the standard dressing specification, a new EU reference dissection method and breed and management improvement.  The new equations were implemented in carcase classification in GB from 12 July 2004.

The majority of trade in GB is still based on the use of carcase weight and P2 fat depth.  MLC Services Ltd (http://www.mlcclassification.co.uk/) provides an independent classification service.  Annual carcase classification results are published in the BPEX Pig Yearbook, based on the classifications carried out by MLC.