Research studies reviewed indicate the dressing percentage (carcass weight as a percentage of live weight at slaughter) would be 2 to 4% less for grass or forage fed versus grain fed market steers and heifers. In our laboratory, most grain fed carcasses yield between 57 to 62 percent meat (weight of boneless subprimals and 85% lean trimmings divided by the cold side weight). In addition we have carcasses yield as much as 68% and as low as 52% meat. The percentage of meat from a carcass would depend on how the carcass is fabricated, the amount of external fat on the carcass, and the degree of muscling. In addition, the carcass weight can decrease from 0% to 7% depending on the length of storage and the refrigeration conditions in the carcass cooler. For example, a 1200 pound steer could have a 732 pound carcass (61% dressing percentage). If the carcass is fabricated after 10 days of aging in a dry cooler the carcass weight could decrease to 703 pounds (4% cooler shrinkage). The meat yield would then be 415 pounds of boneless subprimal cuts (boxed beef cuts) and 85% lean trimmings (59% meat yield).

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