The EUROP classification system (EC Regulations no. 1208 and no. 2930/1981) ensures an accurate and consistent description of the conformation and fatness of bovine carcasses, and gives an estimate of their proportion of saleable lean.
However, the EUROP grid does not provide quality or value connotations of beef; it rewards carcass shape and yield rather than eating quality. Other classification systems, like the American grading system