L.MSG.2111 - MSA Sheepmeat grading model and systems development

Summary

L.MSG.2111 was initiated to develop the internal and external systems required to implement the MSA Sheepmeat cut x cook model commercially. This included substantial systems development across myMSA, grading models, file specifications, APIs, reporting, and user interfaces. The project provided the foundational infrastructure to allow future commercialisation and paved the way for the CAPEX‑funded successor project (L.MSG.2406).

Objectives

The key objectives of this contract were to:

• Develop the systems and framework required to support the MSA Sheepmeat Cut x Cook model.
• Create grading workflows, data models, file specifications, and supporting metadata standards.
• Build test environments for cut x cook grading, PBR calculations, and data uploads.
• Develop APIs, user interfaces, draft reports, and feedback tools for both plants and producers.
• Conduct testing with system vendors and processors to validate grading calculations and data transfers.

Key findings

The project established the entire foundational technical framework for the sheepmeat cuts-based model, including APIs, test systems, file standards, UIs, and plant level grading trials.

Benefits to industry

The systems developed under L.MSG.2111 created the technical foundation for future commercial rollout of the cut x cook model. The model will support payments and marketing based on carcase eating quality rather than simple specification grids.

MLA action

Published online summary.

Future research

MSA Sheepmeat IT system development to be done under L.MSG.2406