P.PSH.1462 - Development and evaluation of carcase traits measurement on live animals for beef processing

Summary

This project aimed to develop and evaluate the commercial installation of MEQ LIVE device to measure carcase traits on live animals. The outcome of this project was to validate and commercialise the use of live animal measures, and in particular live animal surface measures including marbling, rib fat, and EMA that open opportunities that other technologies cannot provide. It would be expected that other red meat value chains who have similar production workflows will see the value defined in this project and want to adopt live animal measures.

Objectives

The overall objective of the project is to deliver an early adoption and evaluation of the MEQ LIVE device to measure beef cattle surface measures including marbling, rib fat and EMA. It would be expected that other red meat value chains who have similar production workflows will see the value defined in this project and want to adopt live animal measures. This project aims to deploy, commission and evaluate the MEQ LIVE system to measure cattle IMF and comparison to marble scores in corresponding beef carcases. This will drive producer engagement with brand specifications and improve genetic gain.

Key findings

A staged approach was used to build and prepare trial ready MEQ Live system for commissioning crush-side at Brindley Park feedlot crush-side (i.e. Pilot feedlot). Following the factory testing signoff of the MEQ pilot feedlot installation, the upgraded hardware and software was transferred and commissioned at Brindley Park feedlot crush-side in the hospital area. Finally, a second commercial unit was installed at lairage of the ACC Cannon Hill processing plant to simulate an exit feedlot measure and immediately prior to slaughter to enable a live animal point of measure to be directly compared with hot- and cold-grading carcase measurements. An independent detailed feasibility and business case was undertaken by modelling of the financial impact of having the data available, reviewing historical data analysis to build new brands and case use for live animal measures for marbling, rib fat, EMA, and rate of marbling.

Benefits to industry

The primary benefit is expected to be that data captured using objective measurements from live animals can contribute to 'whole of life' validation and used to create additional value through carcase compliance. One of the most significant advantages of MEQ LIVE is its ability to cut down the number of days cattle are required to be on feed. By accurately predicting when an animal will reach specification, feedlot operators can know precisely when to stop feeding, as opposed to relying on a standardised number of days that can waste valuable resources and time. This not only reduces the amount of time cattle spend in feedlots but also allows feedlot operators to make better use of their resources and minimise their environmental impact.

In addition to its immediate benefits, MEQ LIVE also has the potential to future-proof the industry by enabling better selection of top performers for breeding programs. With vital measurements and information from MEQ LIVE, operators can identify the most efficient and profitable animals for breeding, driving better outcomes for the industry in the long term.

MLA action

Live animal measurement technologies such as this have been identified to also benefit R&D feedlot facilities that MLA is already invested in.

Future research

This project was an evaluation and validation project. The next phase is recommended for further MLA investment in early adoption and full implementation. Furthermore, live animal measurement technologies such as this have been identified to also benefit R&D feedlot facilities that MLA is already invested in.