Evaluation of the Hennessy Grading Probe for use in lamb carcases.

Authors :: Hopkins DL
Toohey ES
Boyce M
van de Ven RJ
Source :: Meat science [Meat Sci] 2013 Mar; Vol. 93 (3), pp. 752-6. Date of Electronic Publication: 2012 Nov 29.
Publication Year :: 2013
Abstract: An evaluation of the Hennessy Grading Probe (HGP) was undertaken using 557 lamb carcases for the measurement of subcutaneous fat depth (Fat C) and muscle depth (EMD; m. longissimus thoracis et lumborum (LL)) between the 12th/13th ribs. All carcases were probed on the moving chain at up to 10 carcases per min and data analysis was constrained to 320 carcases which were probed at the target site (over the greatest depth of the LL at the midpoint between the 12th and 13th ribs). Analysis of the data revealed wide variability between HGP and equivalent carcase measures, but probe type (versions GP4 and GP7) had minimal impact on the usefulness of the HGP. The HGP as used in the study does not appear to be a viable option for the Australian sheep processing industry.<br /> (Crown Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)