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
Alberta, B.C. Cattle Producers Unite to Support Wildfire-Affected Ranchers Monday, September 14, 2026 Cattle organizations in Alberta and British Columbia are joining forces to help livestock producers navigate the ongoing challenges created by wildfires, drought, and feed shortages. The B.C. Cattlemen's Association (BCCA) and Alberta Beef Producers (ABP) have announced a... Read this article online
Tight Corn Supplies and Rising Chinese Demand Could Fuel Next Grain Market Rally Monday, September 14, 2026 The U.S. Department of Agriculture's September crop report delivered a mixed reaction from grain markets, but according to Farms.com Risk Management Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino, the longer-term outlook remains constructive for corn and soybeans. Speaking during the for... Read this article online
5 Ways Farmers Can Reduce Combine Losses and Improve Harvest Performance in 2026 Monday, September 14, 2026 As combines begin rolling across corn and soybean fields, Iowa State University specialists Doug Houser and Luke Fuhrer are reminding producers that harvest success is about more than speed. According these two experts from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the ISU... Read this article online
Smart Cover Crop Management Boosts Soil Health and Yields Monday, September 14, 2026 Cover crops have become an important management tool for farmers across the Midwest. They offer several benefits, including reducing soil erosion, improving soil health, controlling weeds, conserving moisture, increasing organic matter, and retaining valuable nutrients such as nitrogen.... Read this article online
The cost of filling a combine in Canada Monday, September 14, 2026 Canadian diesel prices are high. “The price of diesel has gone up pretty much everywhere to levels that we have never seen,” Dan McTeague, president of Canadians for Affordable Energy, told CTV News Channel on Sept. 12, adding he expects the high prices to stick around for almost nine... Read this article online