Grading of Poultry

The grading of poultry is voluntary and is paid for by the producer. Three grades are used: A, B, and C. Grade A is the best and refers to a chicken that is full-fleshed and meets standards of appearance. The criteria used in grading are the conformation (the shape of the carcass), the fleshing (the amount of meat on the bird), the amount and distribution of fat, and freedom from blemishes such as pinfeathers, skin discoloration, broken bones, and skin cuts and tears. Read more »