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
(USDA, 1997) and the Japanese grading system (Japan Meat Grading
Association, 2000), rank carcass against estimates of perceived beef
quality or value based on subjective expert evaluation of bovine age,
meat colour, and loin marbling. MSA is a consumer oriented grading