A difference of $619 per carcase was revealed in a recent analysis of carcase data collected in the Angus Sire Benchmarking Program (ASBP).
Carcase values were compared, on a progeny average basis, between the highest and lowest ranked sires.
On an individual carcase basis, the difference between the highest and lowest valued carcase was $2,076.
The progeny average carcase values were derived by applying current day industry based parameters to each steer carcase (n=283) from Cohort 4 of the ASBP. The parameters are based on a general long-fed production system (200+ days) with the aim of producing and selling high quality Angus beef products. The specific parameters applied were:
- $8/kg carcase weight for a Ausmeat marbling score 3 carcase
- Add $0.40/kg carcase weight per Ausmeat marbling score above 3.
- subtract $0.80/kg carcase weight per Ausmeat marbling score below 3
- Subtract 10c/kg carcase weight if >25 mm but less than 30 mm p8 (i.e rump) fat
- Subtract 15c/kg carcase weight if 30 mm of p8 (i.e rump) fat or greater
Additionally, progeny average values, including Carcase Value ($), are calculated using a least squares means (LSM) model which takes into herd and other contemporary group effects.
As expected, the sires with the highest carcase value progeny averages had progeny with higher carcase weights, coupled with higher marbling scores and rump fat in the optimum range.
For example, the sire ranked 1st with a carcase value progeny average of $3,511 had a carcase weight, MSA Marbling Score and Rump Fat progeny averages of 423 kg, 581 score and 15.4 mm respectively.