Relative Value of Longissimus Dorsi Muscle Area at Eight Different Locations in Pork Carcass Evaluation

Abstract

Carcass length, average backfat, percent ham and loin and loin-eye area measurements were taken at 8 positions along the longissimus dorsi muscle of 50pork carcasses weighing from 135-150 lb. Cross sectional area measurements were made at the fifth[long dash]tenth thoracic, and the first and sixth lumbar vertebrae. Loin-eye area increased posteriorly from the fifth thoracic to the first lumbar vertebrae, but remained constant from the first to the sixth lumbar vertebrae. The loin-eye areas at each position were significantly related. The relationship of loin-eye area to percent ham and loin did not differ in the 8 positions. If cutting errors can be minimized, measurement of loin-eye area at the fifth thoracic vertebrae may be advantageous.