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Lamb wholesale nomenclature - 200 series

Item no. 200 – Carcass
A lamb, yearling mutton, or mutton carcass is the entire unsplit carcass. Bloody tissue, frayed ends at the neck and practically all kidney, pelvic and heart fat shall be removed. The diaphragm and the hanging tender may be removed. However, if present, the membranous portion shall be trimmed close to the lean.
Item no. 200A – Carcass, 3-way

This item is as described in item no. 200, except that the carcass is separated into 3 portions (double shoulder, double back, and double leg) and packaged. The portions shall be separated as described for the following styles. When style is not specified by the purchaser, the requirements for style A shall be followed.

Style A – The shoulders shall be separated from the back in accordance with separation a, and the legs from the back in accordance with separation c. (Refer to Cutting instructions for style A.)

Style B – The shoulders shall be separated from the back in accordance with separation a, and the legs from the back in accordance with separation c. (Refer to Cutting instructions for style B.)

Item no. 200B – Carcass, block-ready

This item is as described in item no. 200 except that, unless otherwise specified, the carcass is separated into single square-cut shoulders, single racks, single loins, foreshanks, breasts, and single legs and packaged. The hanging tenders and kidneys shall be removed. When style is not specified by the purchaser, the requirements for style A shall be followed.

Style A – The shoulders, racks, loins, and legs shall be separated in accordance with separations a, b, and c of the Cutting instructions for style A. The breast shall consist of the brisket attached to the breast. The foreshanks shall be separated from the brisket through the natural seam by a cut which passes through the web (pectorales superficialis). The trotter (lower foreshank) shall be removed at the knee joint.

Style B – The shoulders, racks, full loins, and legs shall be separated in accordance with the separations a, b, and d of the Cutting instructions for style B. The foreshanks shall be separated from the brisket through the natural seam by a cut which passes through the web (pectorales superficialis). The trotter (lower foreshank) shall be removed at the knee joint.

Item no. 202 – Foresaddle

The foresaddle is separated from the hindsaddle as described in separation b as referenced in the Cutting instructions for style A or style B. This item consists of the intact shoulder, rack, breast, and foreshank and shall contain 12 ribs for style A and 13 ribs for style B. Bloody tissue, frayed ends at the neck end and practically all heart fat shall be removed. The diaphragm and the hanging tender may be removed. However, if present, the membranous portion shall be trimmed close to the lean. When style is not specified by the purchaser, the requirements for style A shall be followed.

The purchaser may specify one the following styles for item nos. 203, 204, and 204A. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – 8 ribs (ribs 5 to 12)
Style B – 8 ribs (ribs 6 to 13)

For style B bracelet and rack/rib items, the serratus ventralis muscle shall not extend past (dorsal to) the ventral side of the longissimus dorsi.

Item no. 203 – Bracelet
The bracelet consists of the rack and breast from both sides of the carcass attached. It is separated from the shoulder as described in separation a, and from the loin in separation b. When style is not specified by the purchaser, the separations a and b for style A shall be followed.
Item no. 204 – Rack
The rib rack is as described in item no. 203 except that the breast shall be removed. The breast shall be removed from the bracelet by a straight cut across the ribs which is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi. The diaphragm and fat on the ventral surface of the vertebrae shall be removed. Unless otherwise specified, the rack is often packaged split. This unsplit rack is often referred to as a "hotel rack".
Item no. 204A – Rack, chined

This item is as described in item no. 203 except the rack shall be split and the breast shall be removed by a straight cut across the ribs which is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi. The chine bones shall be removed such that the lean is exposed between the ribs and the feather bones, leaving the feather bones attached.

  • Option: Purchaser may specify a ½ rack (4 rib rack) for this item
Item no. 204B – Rack, roast ready

This item is as described in item no. 204A except that the breast side of the ribs shall be removed by a straight cut across the ribs which is not more than the PSO from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi. Additionally, feather bones, exterior fat cover, backstrap, blade bone and the trapezius, infraspinatus, and latissimus dorsi shall be removed, making the item partially cap off. The purchaser may specify one of the following tail length options for item no. 204B.

If not specified, tail length will not be more than 4.0 inches (10 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi or as specified within the item description.

The term block-ready is used interchangeably with roast-ready when describing this item.

  • Option 1: 3 in. (7.5 cm)
  • Option 2: 2 in. (5 cm)
  • Option 3: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
  • Option 4: 0 in. (0 cm)
  • Option 5: Purchaser may specify a ½ rack (4 rib rack) for this item
  • Option 6: In addition, the rhomboideus and subscapularis muscles below the blade bone shall be removed, making the item cap off
Item no. 204C – Rack, roast ready, cap on, frenched

This item is as described in item no. 204A and is further prepared by removing the blade bone and associated cartilage, and by removing the feather bones. In addition, the breast side of the ribs shall be frenched (removal of the intercostal meat and lean and fat over the ribs). Exposed portions of rib bones shall not exceed 2 inches (5.0 cm) in length and the remaining intercostal meat and lean and fat over the rib bones shall not exceed 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi muscle.

The term block-ready is used interchangeably with roast-ready when describing this item.

  • Option 1: The length from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi to the point at which the breast is removed shall be no more than 3 inches (7.5 cm), and neither the exposed rib bone nor the remaining intercostal meat, lean, and fat over the rib bones shall exceed 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length
  • Option 2: Purchaser may specify a ½ rack (4 rib rack) for this item
  • Option 3: The intercostals meat and lean and fat over the rib bones shall be removed (frenched) to the base of the loin eye
  • Option 4: The muscles above where the blade bone was (trapezius, infraspinatus, and latissimus dorsi) are removed

PSO 5 – Purchaser may specify an alternative length for the remaining intercostal meat/French.

Item no. 204D – Rack, roast ready, cap off, frenched

This item is as described in item no. 204B PSO 6, which has the cap fully removed. In addition, the breast side of the ribs shall be frenched (removal of the intercostal meat and lean and fat over the ribs). Exposed portions of rib bones shall not exceed 2 inches (5.0 cm) in length and the remaining intercostal meat and lean and fat over the rib bones shall not exceed 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi muscle.The term "block-ready" is used interchangeably with "roast-ready" when describing this item.

  • Option 1: The length from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi to the point at which the breast is removed shall be no more than 3 inches (7.5 cm), and neither the exposed rib bone nor the remaining intercostal meat, lean, and fat over the rib bones shall exceed 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) in length
  • Option 2: Purchaser may specify a ½ rack (4 rib rack) for this item
  • Option 3: The intercostal meat and lean and fat over the rib bones shall be removed (frenched) to the base of the loin eye

PSO 4 – Purchaser may specify an alternative length for the remaining intercostal meat/French.

Item no. 204E – Rack, ribeye roll

This item is as described in item no. 204D except that all bones shall be removed. It shall consist of the longissimus dorsi, multifidus dorsi, spinalis dorsi, and the minor muscles, fat and related intercostal lean on the breast side. The breast shall be removed by a straight cut not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi.

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item nos. 206, 207, 208, 208A, 208B, and 208C. If style is not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – 4 ribs (ribs 1 to 4)
Style B – 5 ribs (ribs 1 to 5)

Item no. 206 – Shoulders
The shoulders are separated from the carcass as described in separation a. Thymus gland and heart fat shall be closely removed. Purchaser may specify the item as single or double.
Item no. 207 – Shoulders, square-cut
This item is as described in item no. 206 except that the foreshank and brisket (portions of the sternum, associated cartilage, overlying lean and fat and rib ends) are removed by a straight cut approximately perpendicular to the rib side and through the cartilaginous juncture of the first rib and the sternum. The neck shall be removed by a straight cut perpendicular to the rack side which leaves not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) of the neck on the shoulder. Purchaser may specify the item as single or double.
Item no. 207A – Shoulder, outside
This item shall consist of the shank, humerus, and blade bone and associated muscles of the shoulder. It may be prepared from the shoulder prior to removal of the rack and breast by cutting the web muscle (pectoralis superficialis) and following the natural seam to a point immediately medial to the blade cartilage. The trotter (lower foreshank) shall be removed at or above the knee joint. The thick end (arm end) shall include the shank and humerus bones and overlying lean (latissimus dorsi, triceps brachii group, minor muscles associated with the humerus). The thin end (blade end) shall consist of the blade bone and muscles overlying the blade bone (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, latissimus dorsi and may contain the subscapularis and teres major). The cutaneous muscle (shoulder rose) shall be removed when the underlying fat exceeds the surface fat thickness specified. All sides shall be trimmed following the natural curvature of the major muscles and the scapula.
Item no. 207B – Shoulder, inside
This item shall consist of the portion of the square-cut shoulder remaining after the removal of the outside shoulder (IMPS item no. 207A). The lower portion of the inside shoulder shall be removed by a straight cut at an approximate right angle to the rack end which is ventral to but no more than 4 inches from the longissimus. All remaining portions of the trapezius muscle covering this item shall be removed through the natural seams.
Item no. 207C – Shoulder, inside rack

This item is as described in item no. 207B, except that the neck shall be removed by a straight cut through the juncture of the last cervical and first thoracic vertebrae (immediately anterior and parallel to the first rib).

  • Option 1: The chine and feather bones shall be removed
  • Option 2: The lean and fat between the rib bones shall be removed (frenched) leaving no more than 1 inch of lean and fat ventral to the longissimus
Item no. 208 – Shoulder, square-cut, boneless
This item is prepared from a single item no. 207. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, fell, prescapular lymph gland, and heart fat shall be removed. The brisket side and rib end shall form an approximate right angle. The brisket side shall expose the pectoralis profundus extending posterior to the third rib mark. The neck shall be removed by a straight cut approximately perpendicular to the rack end leaving no more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) of the neck on the shoulders. The purchaser may request that the shoulder be rolled with the ribeye lengthwise to the roll and netted or tied.
Item no. 208A – Shoulder, outside, tied, boneless
This item is as described in item 207A except that all bones and cartilages shall be removed. The tendons on the elbow end shall be trimmed to be even with the lean. This item shall be netted or tied.
Item no. 208B – Shoulder, arm out, boneless
This item is as described in item no. 208 except that the arm portion shall be removed (after removal of the outside shoulder) by a straight cut at an approximate right angle to the rack end, which is ventral to, but no more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) or less than 1.0 inch (25 mm) from, the longissimus dorsi at the rack end. The outside shoulder and blade portion shall be individually packaged.
Item no. 208C – Shoulder, inside roll, boneless

This boneless item consists of the muscle system which lies under the blade bone. The arm shall be removed by a straight cut at an approximate right angle to the rack end, which is ventral to, but no more than 3 inches (7.5 cm) from the longissimus dorsi at the rack end. All bones and cartilages shall be removed, including the blade bone and the lean and fat overlying the blade bone.

PSO – The purchaser may specify tail length options for item no. 208C. If not specified, tail length will not be more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi or as specified within the item description.

  • Option 1: 2 in. (5.0 cm)
  • Option 2: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
  • Option 3: 0 in. (0 cm)
  • Option 4: The muscles overlying the blade bone (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, and trapezius) shall be removed in their entirety
Item no. 208D – Shoulder, pectoral meat
This item will consist of the pectoralis profundus muscle that is removed from any boneless shoulder item.
Item no. 209 – Breast

This item is derived from anterior portion of the carcass remaining after "separation B". The rack (item no. 204) and square-cut shoulder (item no. 207) shall be removed leaving the ribs and sternum (brisket) portions intact by a straight cut that passes through the cartilaginous juncture of the first rib and sternum and a point that is not more than 4 inches ventral to the longissimus on the posterior (rack) end. The foreshank (item no. 210) shall be removed by cutting through the natural seam and pectoralis superficialis. The diaphragm may be removed. However, if present, the membranous portion of the diaphragm shall be trimmed close to the lean. The heart fat shall be closely removed.

  • Option: When specified by the purchaser, the breast bones and associated rib bones (brisket) are removed during the shoulder/bracelet break (separation B) by a straight cut between the fourth and fifth ribs (cutting style A) or fifth and sixth ribs (cutting style B). PSO 1 is the more common specification for this item
Item no. 209A – Ribs, breast bones off

This item is prepared from item no. 209 and shall consist of at least 7 ribs, and the intercostal muscles, serratus ventralis, and associated muscles immediately overlying the ribs. The cut shall be not less than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) in width. The sternum and ventral edges of the costal cartilages shall be removed. The fell, cutaneous trunci, exterior fat cover, latissimus dorsi, and diaphragm shall be removed. This item shall be trimmed practically free of surface fat. This item is sometimes referred to as "Denver style ribs".

  • Option 1: Notched/Split: When specified, notching of lamb ribs shall be accomplished by making saw cuts across the ribs at 1.0 inch (2.5 cm) intervals. The saw cuts shall pass through the rib bones and intercostal meat while leaving the lean (serratus ventralis) intact
  • Option 2: Special/Frenched: When specified, the ribs shall be frenched. Prior to frenching the costal cartilages shall be removed by a straight cut parallel with the dorsal edge. The ribs will then be frenched by detaching the serratus ventralis and removing the intercostal meat from the rib bones for a distance of 2 inches (5 cm) from the ventral (sternum/costal cartilage) side. The serratus ventralis shall be rolled and tied to the dorsal edge
  • Option 3: The ribs are cut into individual portions by slicing between the rib bones through the intercostal meat and overlying muscles
Item no. 209B – Shoulder, ribs

This item may be derived from any square-cut IMPS shoulder item and shall include at least 4 ribs and the intercostal and serratus ventralis muscles. This item shall be trimmed practically free of surface fat. The dorsal edge shall have no evidence of the cartilaginous junctures of the ribs and thoracic vertebrae.

  • Option 1: Notched/Split: When specified, notching of lamb ribs shall be accomplished by making saw cuts across the ribs at 1.0 inch (2.5 cm) intervals. The saw cuts shall pass through the rib bones and intercostal meat while leaving the lean (serratus ventralis) intact
  • Option 2: Special/Frenched: When specified, the ribs shall be frenched. Prior to frenching the costal cartilages shall be removed by a straight cut parallel with the dorsal edge. The ribs will then be frenched by detaching the serratus ventralis and removing the intercostal meat from the rib bones for a distance of 2 inches (5 cm) from the ventral (sternum/costal cartilage) side. The serratus ventralis shall be rolled and tied to the dorsal edge
  • Option 3: The ribs are cut into individual portions by slicing between the rib bones through the intercostal meat and overlying muscles
Item no. 209C – Lamb belly

This item includes the intact flank, breast portion ventral to the rack, and breast bones (sternum) and costal cartilages removed from the square-cut shoulder. It may be prepared from the carcass after removal of the legs anterior to the hip bone and hip bone cartilage (separation C). It is removed by a straight cut passing through a point that is 3 inches ventral to the loin eye to the cartilaginous juncture of the first rib and sternum. The diaphragm may be removed. However, if present, the membraneous portion of the diaphragm shall be removed close to the lean. Heart and pelvic fat shall be removed.

  • Option: Purchaser may specify the inclusion of the flank portion from the leg by removing the flank from the inside portion of the legs and following the natural seam over the leg tip prior to their removal from the carcass
Item no. 209D – Lamb belly, boneless
This item is derived from the lamb belly. All bones, cartilages, abdominal tunic, internal fat (kidney, pelvic, and heart), intercostal meat and fat exceeding ½ inch in depth shall be removed. The leg end shall be "squared" so the rectus abdominis muscle (flank muscle) appears to be at least 50% of the width of the belly. Rib bones and costal cartilages shall be removed so that the underlying muscles (serratus ventralis and external oblique) are left intact.
Item no. 210 – Foreshank

The foreshank shall be removed from the shoulder by straight cut exposing the humerus and removed from the brisket by a cut through the natural seam and may contain a portion of the web muscle (pectoralis superficialis). The trotter (lower foreshank) shall be removed at or above the knee joint.

The purchaser may specify one of the following options for item nos. 229 and 229A, described below. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – 9 ribs (ribs 5 to 13)
Style B – 8 ribs (ribs 6 to 13)

Item no. 229 – Hindsaddle, long-cut
This item is as described in item no. 200 except that the shoulders shall be removed by a straight cut between the fourth and fifth ribs for style A and between the fifth and sixth ribs for style B.
Item no. 229A – Hindsaddle, long-cut, trimmed

This item is as described in item no. 229 except that flanks and breasts are removed by straight cuts ventral to, but no more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the longissimus dorsi at the shoulder end, to a point that is immediately ventral to the tensor fasciae latae on the leg.

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item no. 230. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – 13th rib remains with the hindsaddle
Style B – 13th rib remains with the foresaddle

Item no. 230 – Hindsaddle

This item is the posterior portion of the carcass after separation from the foresaddle by a cut which follows the natural curvature between the 12th and 13th ribs for style A and posterior to the 13th rib for style B. This item shall be practically free of all kidney and pelvic fat. The diaphragm and the hanging tender may be removed. However, if present, the membranous portion of the diaphragm shall be trimmed close to the lean.

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item nos. 231, 232, 232A, 232B, and 232C. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements or as specified within the item description.

Style A – Anterior to the 13th rib
Style B – Posterior to the 13th rib

Item no. 231 – Loins, shortloins, saddle
This item is prepared from item no. 230. The legs shall be removed in accordance with separation c for style A or B. This item shall be practically free of all kidney and lumbar fat. This item is commonly referred to as a "drop loin".
Item no. 232 – Loins, shortloins, saddle, trimmed

This item is as described in item no. 231. The flank is removed by a straight cut which is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the longissimus dorsi at the rack end to a point on the leg end which is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the longissimus dorsi. The diaphragm, hanging tenders and kidneys shall be removed.

PSO – The purchaser may specify one of the following tail length options for item nos. 232A, 232B, and 232C. If not specified, tail length will not be more than 4.0 inches (10 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi or as specified within the item description.

  • Option 1: 3 in. (7.5 cm)
  • Option 2: 2 in. (5 cm)
  • Option 3: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
  • Option 4: 0 in. (0 cm)
Item no. 232A – Loin, shortloin, block-ready, trimmed

This item is as described in item no. 232 except that it is a single loin and the flank is removed by a straight cut which is not more than the PSO from the longissimus dorsi at the rack end, to a point on the leg/sirloin end, which is not more than the PSO from the longissimus dorsi.

  • Option: Purchaser may request the item be notched
Item no. 232B – Loins, double, boneless
This item may be derived from any unsplit loin item of any style. The leg/sirloin end shall be derived in accordance with separation c for style A or B. The flanks shall be removed by a straight cut which is not more than the PSO from the longissimus dorsi, at the rack end, to a point on the leg/sirloin end which is not more than the PSO from the longissimus dorsi. All bones, cartilages, hanging tenders, and tenderloins shall be removed while leaving the double boneless loins attached. This item may be netted or tied.
Item no. 232C – Loin, single, boneless
This item is as described in item no. 232B except that it is a single loin.
Item no. 232D – Loin, short tenderloin
This item, which is similar to a short loin tenderloin, shall consist of the tenderloin portion of any loin item and shall consist of the psoas major and psoas minor only. The short tenderloin shall be practically free of fat. Bones, cartilage, and ragged edges shall be removed. A score into the tenderloin exceeding 0.5 inch (13 mm) in depth is not acceptable.
Item no. 232E – Flank, untrimmed

This item shall contain the abdominal muscles ventral to the loin. Costal cartilages and rib bones shall be removed.

  • Option: When the purchaser desires the flank steak muscle, the flank (rectus abdominis) muscle shall be separated from the rest of the untrimmed flank by removal from the tunic and abdominal membrane
Item no. 233 – Legs

This item is prepared from the posterior portion of the carcass. The legs are separated from the carcass in accordance with separation c for styles A and B.

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item nos. 233A, 233B, 233C and 233D. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements or as specified within the item description.

Style A: Leg is separated from the remainder of the carcass in accordance with separation c of the cutting instructions for style A.

Style B: Leg is separated from the remainder of the carcass in accordance with separation d of the cutting instructions for style B.

Item no. 233A – Leg, trotter off
This item is prepared from item no. 233. The legs are split, the trotters (lower hindshank) are removed at the break joint, and the gambrel cord is removed.
Item no. 233B – Leg, shank off
This item is as described in item no. 233A. The hindshank is removed by a straight cut through the stifle joint and then follows the natural seam between the shank and the heel.
Item no. 233C – Leg, trotter off, semi-boneless

This item is as described in item no. 233A, except that the pelvic bone, vertebrae, tail bones, lean and fat overlying the pelvic bone, flank, and practically all cod and udder fat shall be removed.

  • Option 1: The femur shall be removed
  • Option 2: Frenched – the lean and fat shall be removed from the (lower hindshank) trotter end so the shank bone is exposed for a distance of 2.0 inches (5 cm)
  • Option 3: The item may be halved by making a cut approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) posterior to the head of the femur and perpendicular to the length of the femur bone. The 2 portions of approximate equal weight are packaged and sold together

Purchaser may specify both PSO 1 and PSO 2, which is referred to as a "French carving leg".

Item no. 233D – Leg, shank off, semi-boneless

This item is as described in item no. 233C except that the hindshank is removed by a straight cut through the stifle joint and then follows the natural seam between the shank and the heel.

  • Option 1: Heel off – The heel is removed along with the shank through the natural seams between the biceps femoris (outside leg) and heel
  • Option 2: The item may be halved by making a cut approximately 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) posterior to the sirloin and perpendicular to the length of the femur bone. The 2 portions of approximate equal weight are packaged and sold together
Item no. 233E – Leg, sirloin removed, semi-boneless

This item is as described in 233C except that the sirloin is removed from the leg by a straight cut as described in separation d for style B. This item may also be referred to as lamb leg, short cut.

  • Option 1: The femur shall be removed
  • Option 2: Frenched – the lean and fat shall be removed from the (lower hindshank) trotter end so the shank bone is exposed for a distance of 2.0 inches (5 cm)
  • Option 3: The item may be halved by making a cut approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) posterior to the head of the femur and perpendicular to the length of the femur bone. The 2 portions of approximate equal weight are packaged and sold together

Purchaser may specify both PSO 1 and PSO 2, which is referred to as a "short-cut French carving leg".

Item no. 233F – Leg, hindshank

The hindshank shall be removed by a cut through the stifle joint and then follows the natural seam between the shank and the heel. The trotter (lower hindshank) is removed at the break joint and the gambrel cord is removed.

  • Option: Frenched – the lean and fat shall be removed from the (lower hindshank) trotter end so the shank bone is exposed for a distance of 2.0 inches (5 cm)
Item no. 233G – Leg, hindshank, heel on

This item may be prepared from any shank-on leg and is removed by a straight cut through the stifle joint at an approximate right angle to the shank bone leaving the heel or any portion of the heel attached to the shank. The trotter (lower hindshank) is removed at the break joint and the gambrel cord is removed.

  • Option: Frenched – the lean and fat shall be removed from the (lower hindshank) trotter end so the shank bone is exposed for a distance of 2.0 inches (5 cm)
Item no. 234 – Leg, boneless

This boneless item is prepared from item no. 233A. The loin end shall be exposed in accordance with separation c for style A and separation d for style B. The femur is removed by a cut through the natural seam between the knuckle and the inside portions. All bones, cartilages, sacrosciatic ligament and the lean and fat that overlies the ligament, popliteal and exposed lymph glands, gambrel cord, flank, and tendinous ends of the shank and knuckle exposing less than 75% lean on a cross-sectional cut shall be removed. The shank meat from the leg may be folded or placed into the femur cavity. This item shall be netted or tied.

  • Option: Butterfly: Purchaser may specify that the inside and sirloin tip be "butterflied" to yield a uniformly thick boneless leg for grilling. The sirloin tip is cut lengthwise beginning on the anterior side toward the void in the shank area, then the medial portion is folded into the shank cavity. The inside shall be butterflied by a knife cut beginning on the anterior side toward the heel portion of the leg
Item no. 234A – Leg, shank off, boneless

This is as described in item no. 234 except that the shank shall be removed. The boneless leg shall be netted or tied.

  • Option: Butterfly: Purchaser may specify that the inside and sirloin tip be "butterflied" to yield a uniformly thick boneless leg for grilling. The sirloin tip is cut lengthwise beginning on the anterior side toward the void in the shank area, then the medial portion is folded into the shank cavity. The inside shall be butterflied by a knife cut beginning on the anterior side toward the heel portion of the leg
Item no. 234B – Leg, 2-way, boneless
This item is as described in item no. 234A except that the boneless leg shall be separated through the natural seams into 2 portions, bottom (outside and sirloin tip) and inside. Each portion shall be individually packaged and packed into the same container.
Item no. 234C – Leg, bottom, boneless

This boneless item may be prepared from the outside (biceps femoris and semitendinosus) and sirloin tip (quadriceps femoris group and tensor fasciae latae) portions of any IMPS boneless leg item. Presence of the gluteus medius and heel (gastrocnemius and flexor digitorum superficialis muscles) are optional.

PSO – The purchaser may specify any one or a combination of the following options for item no. 234C:

  • Option 1: The gluteus medius shall remain
  • Option 2: The heel and popliteal lymph gland shall be removed by cutting through the natural seam
  • Option 3: Butterfly: Purchaser may specify that the cut be butterflied by cutting the sirloin tip (quadriceps femoris group and tensor fasciae latae muscles) lengthwise toward the void in the shank area. Fold the butterflied sirloin tip into the void of the shank area to create a uniformly shaped cut. This option is often referred to as an inside-out (IO) leg
Item no. 234D – Leg, outside, boneless
This boneless item may be prepared from the outside (biceps femoris and semitendinosus) portion of any IMPS boneless leg item. The gluteus medius shall also be included unless the purchaser specifies that it not be. The heel (gastrocnemius and flexor digitorum superficialis muscles) and popliteal lymph gland shall be removed by cutting through the natural seam. When larger-sized roasts are requested, two outside portions shall be reversed, and the boned surfaces placed together and netted or tied to produce a uniformly thick roast.
Item no. 234E – Leg, inside, boneless

This boneless item may be prepared from the inside portion of any IMPS boneless leg item and shall consist of the semimembranosus, adductor and firmly attached muscles. The inside is separated from the bottom and knuckle portions along the natural seams. When specified by the purchaser, the boned surfaces of two inside portions shall be placed together and netted or tied to produce a uniformly thick roast.

  • Option: The gracilis muscle (cap) shall be removed by cutting through the natural seams
Item no. 234F – Leg, sirloin tip, boneless
This boneless item shall consist of the knuckle portion (quadriceps femoris group) and tensor fasciae latae of any IMPS boneless leg item. The sirloin tip is separated from the inside and outside portions along the natural seams. All bones, cartilages and tendinous ends exposing less than 75% lean on a cross-sectional cut shall be removed.
Item no. 234G – Top sirloin, boneless

This boneless item is prepared from the muscles (biceps femoris, gluteus medius, gluteus accessories, and gluteus profundus) lying between the C and D separation points of style B. The bottom sirloin shall be removed by cutting along the natural seam (between the gluteus medius and the rectus femoris) continuing to the outside surface leaving a portion of the tensor fasciae latae attached to the boneless top sirloin. All bones, cartilages, sacrosciatic ligament, and the lean and fat that overlies the ligament, shall be removed.

  • Option 1: The biceps femoris (cap) shall be removed by cutting through the natural seams
  • Option 2: The tenderloin shall be removed
  • Option 3: The tensor fascia latae shall remain attached to the sirloin

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item nos. 235 and 236. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – 9 ribs (ribs 5 to 13)
Style B – 8 ribs (ribs 6 to 13)

Item no. 235 – Back
This item consists of the rack, loin, flanks, and plates intact. The shoulders shall be removed by a straight cut between the fourth and fifth ribs for style A and between the fifth and sixth ribs for style B. The legs shall be removed in accordance with separation c for styles A or B. The diaphragm may be removed. However, if present, the membranous portion of the diaphragm shall be trimmed close to the lean. This item shall be practically free of all internal fat.
Item no. 236 – Back, trimmed
This item is as described in item no. 235 except that the flanks and plates are removed by a straight cut that is ventral to, but no more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the longissimus dorsi on both the shoulder and leg ends. The kidneys and hanging tenders shall be removed.
Item no. 238 – Trimmings

Trimmings may be prepared from any portion of the carcass which yields product that meets the end item requirements. All fell, bones, cartilages, backstrap, heavy connective tissue, and lymph glands shall be removed.

The fat content shall be specified by the purchaser and verified by one of the following PSO for item no. 238. If not specified, fat content shall be verified with PSO B requirements.

  • Fat content shall be declared on the product label
  • Contractor shall submit documentation of fat analysis to purchaser
  • Fat content certified by AMS (see Quality Assurance Provisions)
  • Samples selected by AMS and sent to purchaser designated laboratory
Item no. 239 – Special trimmings

Trimmings may be prepared from any portion of the carcass which yields product that meets the end item requirements. Unless otherwise specified, shank and heel meat shall be excluded. Unless otherwise specified, trimmings shall consist of pieces which have a surface area on one side which is no less than 6.0 square inches (15.0 square cm) and are no less than 0.3 inch (8 mm) thick at any point. All fell, bones, cartilages, backstrap, heavy connective tissue, detached cutaneous muscles, and lymph glands shall be removed. Trimmings shall be practically free of surface and seam fat. The purchaser may specify this item to be further fabricated into strips for stir fry or fajitas.

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles for item nos. 242, 243, and 244. If not specified, product shall comply with style A requirements.

Style A – Contains the 13th rib
Style B – Does not contain the 13th rib

Item no. 242 – Loins, full
This item consists of the loins and sirloins intact. The racks shall be removed in accordance with separation b. The legs shall be removed in accordance with separation d. This item shall be practically free of all kidney and lumbar fat.
Item no. 243 – Loins, full, trimmed
This item is as described in item no. 242, except that the flank shall be removed by a straight cut starting at a point on the rack end that is ventral to, but no more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the longissimus dorsi muscle to a point immediately ventral to the tensor fasciae latae. The diaphragm, hanging tenders and kidneys shall be removed.
Item no. 244 – Loin, 3-way, boneless
This item shall consist of the following IMPS items which are packaged in the same container: item no. 232C – Loin, boneless; item no. 234G – Sirloin, boneless; item no. 246 – Tenderloin.
Item no. 245 – Sirloin
This item is separated from the carcass as described for separations and d within style B. The flank is removed by a straight cut from a point which is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the gluteus medius to a point which is not more than 0.25 inch (6 mm) from the tensor fasciae latae.
Item no. 246 – Tenderloin
This item is derived any loin item that has a bone-in sirloin attached to it that was removed from the leg at point of separation D in style B, and shall consist of the psoas major, psoas minor, and iliacus (wing). The portion of the psoas minor which is not firmly attached shall be removed. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. The tenderloin shall be trimmed practically free of kidney fat.
Item no. 295 – Lamb for stewing
This item shall be prepared from any portion of the carcass which yields product that meets the end item requirements. Meat from the heel and shank is not acceptable. All bones, cartilage, backstrap, heavy connective tissue, exposed large blood vessels, and any exposed lymph glands shall be removed. The boneless meat shall be hand diced or processed through a dicing machine (grinding not permitted). Not less than 85%, by weight, of the resulting pieces shall be of a size which is equivalent of not less than a 0.5 inch (13 mm) cube or more than a 1.25 inches (3.1 cm) cube and no individual surface on these pieces shall exceed 2.5 inches (6.2 cm) in length. When specified, this item may be prepared from yearling mutton or mutton. In which case, the name shall be changed to yearling mutton or mutton, as applicable. Purchaser may specify product be prepared from specific cuts (leg, sirloin, loin, rack, or square-cut shoulder) and product shall be labelled accordingly.
Item no. 295A – Lamb for kabobs

This item is as described in item no. 295 except that it must be prepared from the leg portion of the carcass. In addition, unless otherwise specified, at least 90%, by weight, of the resulting dices shall be of a size equivalent to not less than a 0.75 inches (19 mm) cube or not more than a 1.25 inches (3.1 cm) cube and no individual surface shall be more than 2.5 inches (6.2 cm) in length.

  • Option: Purchaser may allow the item to be prepared from any portion of the carcass as described in item no. 295
Item no. 296 – Ground lamb

When specified, this item may be prepared from yearling mutton or mutton. In which case the name shall be changed to yearling mutton or mutton, as applicable.

Material – Ground lamb shall be prepared from any portion of a lamb carcass. The meat shall be free of fell, bones, cartilages, exposed lymph glands, heavy connective tissue and the tendinous ends of shanks and sirloin tips to a point which exposes at least 75% lean on a cross-sectional cut. Unless otherwise specified, ground lamb may be derived from previously certified boneless meat which has been frozen and stockpiled. The purchaser may specify the maximum amount of previously certified frozen boneless meat that can be mixed with fresh-chilled meat prior to final grinding.

Processing – The boneless meat shall be ground at least once through a plate having holes not larger than 1.0 inch (25 mm) in diameter. Alternatively, boneless lamb may be chopped or machine-cut by any method provided the texture and appearance of the product after final grinding is typical of ground lamb prepared by grinding only. Unless otherwise specified, final grinding shall be through a plate having holes ⅛ inch (3 mm) in diameter. Lamb shall be thoroughly blended at least once prior to final grinding. However, the ground lamb shall not be mixed after final grinding. Initial reduction in size, blending, and final grinding shall be a continuous sequence.

Fat content – Unless otherwise specified, the fat content shall not exceed 20%. However, the purchaser may specify any fat content provided it does not exceed 30% and may specify discount ranges.

The fat content may be verified by one of the following PSO for item no. 296. If not specified, fat content shall be verified with PSO A requirements.

  • Fat content shall be declared on the product label
  • Contractor shall submit documentation of fat analysis to purchaser
  • Fat content certified by AMS (see Quality Assurance Provisions)
  • Samples selected by AMS and sent to purchaser designated laboratory
Item no. 296A – Ground lamb and soy protein product

This item is approved for use in child nutrition programs and is as described in item no. 296 except that soy protein product (SPP) shall be added. Source (e.g., soy), type (flour, concentrate, or isolate), and texture (granular or textured) of SPP shall be specified by the purchaser. The SPP may be used dry, partially hydrated, or fully hydrated. If not specified, the dry SPP shall be fully hydrated to yield a minimum of 18% protein. To determine the maximum amount of water to be mixed with the dry SPP to yield 18% protein in the mixture, the following equation shall be used:

Equation: percent protein on an as-is basis minus 1 divided by 18 equals x

x = maximum pounds of water to be added to each pound of dry SPP.

The SPP shall be hydrated for the length of time listed on the product label. If this information is not available, the product shall be hydrated until all water is absorbed. The purchaser shall specify any level of substitution of hydrated SPP in the combined finished product up to 30%. If not specified, the maximum percent of hydrated protein product in the combined finished product shall not exceed 20%. The hydrated SPP shall be used in the same working day in which it was hydrated. The hydrated SPP shall be blended with the raw meat (in the specified ratio) following the initial reduction in size.

SPP hydrated and frozen by the SPP manufacturer may be used provided that:

  1. the protein content of the hydrated product (as specifically stated on the manufacturer's label) is not less than 18%
  2. the product may be tempered, but not thawed, prior to use; and
  3. additional water may not be added directly to the meat

The SPP must meet the nutritional specifications established by the USDA, Food and Nutrition Service Regulations. To ensure compliance, the SPP used must have information on the label stating, "This product meets USDA-FNS requirements for use in meeting a portion of the meat/meat alternate requirement of the child nutrition programs. Labeling of the finished product must reflect the terms "soy protein product" or "textured soy protein product" as appropriate in the ingredient statement (for example, textured soy protein product (Soy flour, Zinc oxide, Niacinamide, Ferrous sulfate, Copper gluconate, Vitamin A palmitate, Calcium pantothenate, Thiamine mononitrate (B1), Pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6), Riboflavin (B2), Cyanocobalamin (B12)).

8.3 Detailed requirements for portion-cut products

Item no. 1200 – Cubed steaks
Cubed steaks shall be prepared from any portion of the carcass which yields product that meets the end-item requirements. However, shank and heel meat shall be excluded. Unless otherwise specified, the steaks shall be cubed (while in the fresh chilled state) twice at approximate right angles. Knitting of 2 or more pieces and folding the meat when cubing is permissible. After cubing, surface and seam fat shall not exceed 15% of the total area on either side of the steak. Individual steaks shall remain intact when suspended 0.5 inch (13 mm) from the outer edge. The steaks shall be free of heavy connective tissue, bones, cartilages, and lymph glands.
Item no. 1201 – Cubed steaks, special
This item is as described in item no. 1200 except the steaks shall be prepared from any combination of lean from the leg, sirloin, loin, rack, or square-cut shoulder sections (excluding shank and heel meat) of the carcass. Knitting of 2 or more pieces and folding the meat when cubing is not permissible.
Item no. 1202 – Braising steaks, swiss
Braising steaks shall be prepared from any combination of lean from the leg, loin, sirloin, rack, or square-cut shoulder sections (excluding shank and heel meat) of the carcass which yields product that meets the end-item requirements. The steaks shall be free of heavy connective tissue, bones, cartilages, and lymph glands. When specified, the raw materials or the steaks shall be mechanically tenderized by using the multiple probe method (pinning) not more than one time. Pressing, knitting, or folding two pieces of meat together is not permissible. Surface and seam fat shall not exceed an average of ⅛ inch (3 mm) in thickness and the thickness at any one point shall not exceed 0.25 inch (6 mm). Surface fat, measuring 0.1 inch (2 mm) or more in thickness, shall not exceed 50% of the circumference of the steak. Individual steaks shall remain intact when suspended 0.5 inch (13 mm) from the outer edge. Alternatively, the purchaser may specify surface and seam fat limitations in terms of maximum surface area percentage. Both surface and seam fat of the total cut surface on either side of the steak shall not exceed the percentage specified by the purchaser.
Item no. 1204B – Rib chops

These chops shall be prepared from any bone-in rack item of specified style which yields product that meets the end-item requirements. The feather bones, exterior fat cover, fell membrane, backstrap, blade bone, and the trapezius, infraspinatus, and latissimus dorsi shall be removed. When style is not specified, racks shall comply with style A requirements. Tail length shall be a PSO.

PSO = The purchaser may specify one of the following tail length options for item no. 1204B. If not specified, tail length will not be more than 4.0 inches (10 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi or as specified within the item description.

  • Option 1: 3 in. (7.5 cm)
  • Option 2: 2 in. (5 cm)
  • Option 3: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
  • Option 4: 0 in. (0 cm)
Item no. 1204C – Rib chops, frenched
This item is as described in item no. 1204B except that the breast side of the ribs shall be frenched (removal of the intercostal meat and lean and fat over the ribs). Exposed portions of rib bones shall not exceed 2 inches (5 cm) in length and the remaining intercostal meat and lean and fat over the rib bones shall not exceed 2 inches (5 cm) from the longissimus dorsi muscle. The weight of each chop will determine the the number of bones per chop unless purchaser specifies that each chop have a specific number of bones regardless of weight.
Item no. 1204D – Rib chops, cap off, frenched
This item is as described in item no. 1204C except that the muscles firmly attached below the blade bone (rhomboideus and subscapularis) shall be removed.
Item no. 1204F – Rib chops, frenched to eye
This item is as described in item no. 1204D except that this item is frenched immediately ventral to the longissimus dorsi muscle and the rib bone length shall not exceed 4.0 inches (10 cm), unless otherwise specified by the purchaser.
Item no. 1207 – Shoulder chops

Shoulder chops shall be prepared from both the arm and blade bone sections of a single square-cut shoulder – item no. 207. Unless otherwise specified, shoulder chops shall consist of the arm and blade chops.

Style A: Arm chops – Are derived from the arm portion of item no. 207 and shall contain a cross section of the humerus and shall be cut approximately parallel to the ventral (shank) side of the shoulder. The rib bones and intercostal meat shall be removed.

  • Option: Rib bones are left attached if seam fat is less than 0.25 inch (6 mm) between the pectoral muscle and rib bones

Style B: Blade chops – Are derived from the blade (dorsal) portion of item no. 207. These chops shall contain a portion of the blade bone and shall be cut approximately parallel to the rib bones

  • Option: PSO 1 – Chops may be prepared "country style" by cutting the chops between the blade bone and the rib bone to a point ending near the feather bone
Item no. 1209 – Short rib, bone-in

This item may be prepared from any lamb shoulder or breast item as described in item nos. 206 or 209. The bone in short ribs shall consist of the ribs, intercostal meat, and the intact serratus ventralis muscle. The serratus ventralis muscle shall be continuous across both the dorsal and ventral side of the specified portion. The ribs shall be cut flanken style by cutting them at a right angle to the rib bones. Purchaser may specify both the width of the cut and the number of ribs in each portion.

  • Option: The ribs shall come from the shoulder portion only

PSO – The purchaser may specify one of the following tail length options for item nos. 1232A, 1232B, and 1232C. If not specified, tail length will not be more than 4.0 inches (10 cm) from the ventral edge of the longissimus dorsi or as specified within the item description.

  • Option 1: 3 in. (7.5 cm)
  • Option 2: 2 in. (5 m)
  • Option 3: 1 in. (2.5 cm)
  • Option 4: 0 in. (0 cm)
Item no. 1232A – Loin chops

These chops shall be prepared from any bone-in loin item which yields product that meets the end-item requirements and shall contain no portion of the hipbone. The flank edge shall not exceed the PSO for tail length options.

"T-bone" chops are those chops that include the presence of the tenderloin (psoas major) muscle.

Item no. 1232B – Loin chops, double, boneless
Loin chops shall be prepared from any IMPS double, boneless loin item. Chops shall remain firmly attached. The flank edge shall not exceed the PSO for tail length options.
Item no. 1232C – Loin chops, single, boneless
The chops shall be prepared from any IMPS single, boneless loin item. The flank edge shall not exceed the PSO for tail length options.
Item no. 1233E – Leg, center-cut steaks
This item may be prepared from any bone-in leg item that yields product that meets the end item requirements. A cross section of the femur bone (no other bones shall be present) shall be present on both sides of each steak.
Item no. 1233G – Lamb osso buco, hindshank
This item shall be prepared from item no. 233G. The hindshank portions shall be cut to a thickness specified by the purchaser. The slices shall be cut approximately perpendicular to the bone length so as to display a cross-section surface at least 75% lean on each side.
Item no. 1234 – Leg chops, boneless
This item shall be prepared from any boneless IMPS leg item (234 series) of specified style, except that shank and heel meat shall be excluded. When style is not specified, then boneless legs shall comply with style A requirements.
Item no. 1234A – Leg, cutlet, boneless
This item shall be derived from any combination of the following boneless IMPS items (inside, outside, sirloin tip, and/or sirloin). All shank and heel meat shall be excluded, and the cutlets shall be free of any heavy connective tissue, cartilages, and lymph glands and trimmed of fat to meet purchaser specifications. When specified by the purchaser this item shall be cubed. Knitting of 2 or more pieces and folding the meat when cubing is not permissible.
Item no. 1296 – Ground lamb patties
The patties shall be prepared from item no. 296.
Item no. 1296A – Ground lamb and soy protein product patties
The patties shall be prepared from item no. 296A.
Item no. 1297 – Lamb steaks, flaked and formed, frozen
The steaks shall be prepared from boneless lamb that complies with the material requirements of item no. 296 and shall be flaked (grinding is not permitted) and formed. The flaking and forming process shall be in compliance with FSIS Regulations. Product shall comply with fat content requirements of item no. 296. The purchaser shall specify shape and weight of steaks. When specified, the product shall be breaded and labelled appropriately. The breading and its application shall be in accordance with FSIS Regulations.
Item no. 1297A – Lamb sandwich steaks, flaked, chopped, formed and wafer sliced, frozen
The steaks shall be prepared from boneless lamb that complies with the material requirements of item no. 296. The flaking, chopping, forming, and slicing process shall be in compliance with FSIS Regulations and shall produce steaks which are moderately fine textured. Product shall comply with fat content requirements of item no. 296. Each steak shall consist of two or more thin slices weighing approximately one ounce each. No more than a minor amount of green/brown/gray rings shall be present. Steaks shall be packaged with paper separators between each steak. Unless otherwise specified, slices shall be approximately 4.75 inches × 7.5 inches (11.9 cm × 18.8 cm). The purchaser shall specify weight and/or number of slices per steak.
Item no. 1297B – Lamb steaks, sliced and formed, frozen
The steak shall be prepared from boneless lamb that complies with item no. 239. The slicing and forming process shall be in accordance with FSIS Regulations. Ingredients may be added for the purpose of tenderizing and binding and shall appear on product label. The purchaser shall specify weight, shape, and/or thickness of steaks.
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