Poultry Judging Practice Test

A 16-pound turkey carcass with a 1/4 inch tear on the breast and the tail removed would receive what grade by the USDA?

1. A

2. B

3. C

4. D

The correct answer is: A

To determine the grading of a turkey carcass, the USDA considers factors such as conformation, fat covering, and the presence of defects. In this case, the turkey weighs 16 pounds, which typically qualifies it for higher grades if it meets the necessary criteria. Despite having a 1/4 inch tear on the breast, this defect is relatively minor and may not significantly impact the overall quality of the carcass. The removal of the tail does not play a substantial role in the grading process for the USDA, as the focus is more on the meat quality and overall appearance rather than on minor body part presence. For a turkey to receive a grade of A, it must be practically free of defects, and any variances in the skin or minor imperfections must not compromise the turkey's overall quality. Given the specifics provided—a slight tear and the weight of the turkey—it suggests that the carcass still maintains a high grade of quality, justifying a classification as grade A. This understanding reinforces the idea that minor defects can allow for a higher grade if they do not compromise the essential attributes of the poultry, which is the case here with the 16-pound turkey carcass.