Beef tenderness predictor works for pork Tuesday, October 2, 2012 A beef tenderness predictor also works on pork chops, says the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).The technology is based on visible and near-infrared reflectance (Vis/NIR) spectroscopy and predicts tenderness without destroying the valuable parts of the carcass. The tenderness predictor was validated using a shear cutting test to measure tenderness. It can be used to predict which USDA Select grade beef steaks will be tender when cooked.Pork isn't presented for grading the same way, so the challenge was different. A computer model was used to predict tenderness and that test was validated using 1,800 boneless loin chops during the boning and trimming process in commercial meat plants. The test also predicts which cuts of meat will look fresh longest in the grocery store. If the industry adopts the technology, the ARS' news service says, genetic selection might be based on predictions of the colour of the meat and also of tenderness. BP Diagnosing and treating umbilical and inguinal hernias in pigs The son of H1N1 spreads, with less panic
Ag community wanted for cover crop survey Saturday, January 17, 2026 Researchers from Manitoba and Ontario are looking for members of ag communities from Alberta to Ontario to participate in a questionnaire about cover crops. The confidential survey is open to any farm type and size whether the operation has ever grown cover crops. “We don’t just want... Read this article online
Elyce Simpson Fraser Wins Pulse Promoter Award Friday, January 16, 2026 Saskatchewan Pulse Growers has named Elyce Simpson Fraser as the recipient of the 2025 Pulse Promoter Award. She is being recognized for her strong leadership in expanding value-added pulse processing and for her ongoing efforts to promote Saskatchewan pulses within local... Read this article online
SARM Welcomes Pause on Livestock Traceability Rules Friday, January 16, 2026 The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities has welcomed the federal government’s decision to pause the publication of proposed livestock traceability regulations. The organization says the pause isan important steptoward developing a system that works for cattle producers and rural... Read this article online
RFA Supports Canadas Clean Fuel Regulations Update Friday, January 16, 2026 The Renewable Fuels Association has shared its comments with Environment and Climate Change Canada in support of Canada’s Clean Fuel Regulations. The organization also offered its views onpossible changesthat could strengthen the program while keeping its main goal of reducing greenhouse gas... Read this article online
Alta. farm kid heading to her third Olympics Friday, January 16, 2026 Melissa Lotholz hasn’t really had time to think about the fact she’s about to become a three-time Olympian. “I think a lot of time we’re very process oriented as athletes and then it’s not until you take a step back and take a look at it and you’re like, ‘oh, that’s actually a pretty big... Read this article online