grades are the estimated
backfat thickness over the last rib and the muscling
score. Grades 1 through 4 all produce carcasses
with acceptable lean meat quality and acceptable
belly thickness. Th e diff erence is in the percentage,
of lean cuts in the hog (ham, loin, picnic shoulder,
Boston shoulder). The U.S. No. 1 has the highest
percentage of lean cuts at over 60 percent. As the
grade number increases, the percentage of lean
cuts decreases. Th e U.S. Utility grade has a thin covering
of fat, produces an unacceptable percentage
of lean cuts, and has unacceptable belly thickness.
Th is grade is not available in supermarkets for consumers
to purchase.