Meat Judging Basics

The purpose of 4-H meat judging is for 4-H'ers to develop an appreciation for red meats as a protein source and to become better informed consumers. They will learn how to recognize various cuts and quality grades of meat, how to shop wisely, and how to cook meats appropriately.

The 4-H'er taking this project need not be a farm youth. In fact, youth in an urban setting can greatly benefit from this experience and gain an appreciation for food production from farm to table. This contest provides an excellent opportunity for all youth to learn about an agricultural commodity and to become more intelligent consumers in the process. Furthermore, it provides an opportunity to develop reasoning, decision-making, and teamwork skills. Contest activities are designed to develop the whole person, using the subject matter to accomplish this goal.

The contest will consist of:
1. Identifying 30 retail cuts of beef, pork, and lamb (fresh, processed, and variety)
2. Six Judging Classes:
*2 Beef Classes (carcasses or wholesale cuts)
*2 Pork Classes (carcasses or wholesale cuts)
*2 Retail Cut Classes
3. Giving oral reasons on two of the above classes (national contest only)

Ojectives of Meat Judging include:
· To develop employment skills for students who are interested in exploring or pursuing career opportunities in the meat animal industry.
· To assist the local agricultural education instructor in motivating students to become knowledgeable consumers of meat and meat animal products and/or involved in the industry of meat animal marketing and merchandising.
· To encourage the development of broader analytical skills, critical thinking strategies and an understanding of appropriate meat terminology for high school students.
· To develop the ability to evaluate meat animal products in order to optimize economic returns to producers and industry as well as to meet the needs of the consumer.
· To develop good cooperation and communication skills in working together to accomplish a goal.

(Source: Mississippi 4-H Meats Judging Manual)

Meat Judging Team heads to Denver for National Competition

The Suwannee County Meat Judging Team will be heading to Denver to participate in the Western National Meat Judging Contest on January 6-9, 2011. To help support the team please contact Brian Estevez at 386-362-2771 or bestevez@ufl.edu for more information. Thank you and good luck to the meat judging team.