Poultry Judging Practice Test

What is the USDA grade for a turkey that has 1/4 inch of exposed flesh on the breast?

1. A

2. B

3. C

4. D

The correct answer is: A

The correct USDA grade for a turkey with 1/4 inch of exposed flesh on the breast is indeed A. The USDA grading system for poultry is designed to classify the quality based on various criteria, including the amount and condition of the flesh, as well as the overall appearance of the bird. Grade A turkeys are characterized by their high quality, which includes a well-developed layer of fat and meat, and minimal exposed flesh. The allowance for 1/4 inch of exposed flesh on the breast indicates that although there is some exposure, the bird still meets the standard for Grade A quality. Other attributes, such as the overall conformation and freedom from defects, contribute to this classification. Lower grades, such as B and C, typically allow for more significant flesh exposure and a higher probability of defects, which is not the case here. Therefore, the presence of only 1/4 inch of exposed flesh aligns with the standards set forth for Grade A turkeys.