Ultrasound technology has limited ability to predict carcass yield grade of lightweight, short-fed stocker cattle

Authors

S.J. Lawrence
S.E. Kreider
James J. Higgins
L. Allen
M.P. Epp
P. Ritter
Dale A. Blasi
Michael E. Dikeman

Keywords

Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station contribution; no. 13-162-S; Report of progress (Kansas State University. Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service); 1083; Cattle; Ultrasound; Yield grade; Carcass

Abstract

The majority of cattle fed in commercial feedlots are processed and placed into pens without sorting into groups of uniform size and body condition. As a result of the variability in weight and condition, this management practice may lead to some cattle being fed beyond their optimal harvest point, whereas others are underconditioned and harvested prematurely, and thus fail to reach desired weight or quality grade necessary to attract available carcass premiums. Our objective was to determine if ultrasound technology could be utilized with lightweight calves as a means of predicting carcass fat thickness and yield grade outcomes. If successful, ultrasound could be a useful means of sorting cattle into uniforms groups to improve marketing.

Recommended Citation

Lawrence, S.J.; Kreider, S.E.; Higgins, James J.; Allen, L.; Epp, M.P.; Ritter, P.; Blasi, Dale A.; and Dikeman, Michael E. (2013) "Ultrasound technology has limited ability to predict carcass yield grade of lightweight, short-fed stocker cattle," Kansas Agricultural Experiment Station Research Reports: Vol. 0: Iss. 1. https://doi.org/10.4148/2378-5977.1434