VIA
Apporval of VIA Systems for classifcaiton of GB lamb carases
(October 2005 – September 2006)
Aim
To evaluate the potential of a VIA system for predicting sheep carcase classification and meat yield, with the aim of increasing industry confidence in classification, and improve efficiently.
Why is it important?
Current sheep classification systems are dependent on visual assessment, and this means that there can be individual anomalies. As a result, the consistency of application of standards is sometimes questioned by the industry.
It has therefore been a long-term aim to find an objective system, which would give more confidence in the consistency of the sheep carcase classification scheme.
How did the project work?
A VIA system was installed in a commercial sheep plant and was evaluated over a 5-month period.
The system’s ability to predict carcase classification was compared with that of an expert panel.
Meat yield prediction equations were developed by yield data from carcases butchered to an agreed specification.
Who did the work?
The research was undertaken by the Meat and Livestock Commission (MLC).
The project was jointly funded by HCC, EBLEX, QMS, and LMC.
