In the final of a series of reports which aim to increase transparency in the prime cattle market, specialists at the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) have looked at whether prices paid reflect the yield of trimmed primal cuts from the carcase.

Their analysis shows that the highest yields of prime cuts come from an E1 carcase (78% yield), with yields gradually falling down through the grades and fat classes, with a P+5L at 62%. The yield for a typical R3 carcase was around 71%.

If prices were paid solely on yield of trimmed carcase, then an E1 animal should achieve the highest overall price on the basis of p/kg. However, the authors point out that primal yield is not the only determinant of carcase value. For example, fillet and striploin in better conformation, fatter carcases can make up to 11% of total primal cut yield, compared with less than 8% in poorer conformation, leaner carcases.

Also customer specifications, particularly around pack sizes, can limit the value of steak cuts from heavy carcases, while appearance of these cuts can limit the value of very lean animals. It all means that the prices paid per kilo of trimmed carcase tend to be highest in the central part of the grid (fat class 3 and 4L; conformation E, U, R, O+).

At the extreme, P1 carcases attract less than half as much per kilo of trimmed primal cuts as those at the upper end of the scale.

In summary, the report points out that carcases which are well away from the target specification attract much lower prices than might be expected, and that these differences have increased in recent months as processors in Britain apply more rigorous specifications.

“Ultimately, producers need to ensure that their cattle meet the requirements of the market if they are to ensure that they receive the best prices,” concludes the report.