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Better Pork Featured Articles

Better Pork magazine is published bimonthly. After each edition is published, we share featured articles online.


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  

Current Issue

February 2026

Better Pork Magazine

Farms.com Swine News

Ag in the House: Feb. 2 – 6

Monday, February 9, 2026

On Feb. 2, a Bloc MP wanted answers from the government about a proposed rail line and if his community is being kept in the loop about the proceedings. “A new rail corridor was announced for the train (connecting Toronto and Quebec City) at the last minute, and it is going right through... Read this article online

Alberta provides wild boar update

Monday, February 9, 2026

More than 100 wild boar are no longer wreaking havoc on Alberta farms and in nearby communities thanks to the province’s Wild Boar Control Program. Professional trappers in Alberta removed 108 wild boar, an update from the Alberta government says. “In 2025 we received 72 reports... Read this article online

Making Soybeans Great Again! And A Fools Gold?

Monday, February 9, 2026

On the weekly podcast by experts Farms.com Risk Management Chief Commodity Strategist Moe Agostino and Commodity Strategist Abhinesh Gopal called the Ag Commodity Corner+ Podcast, the team reviewed major market movements during the week of February 2 to 6, 2026. Soybeans recorded a strong gain... Read this article online

Leif Carlson Appointed VP at Cereals Canada

Friday, February 6, 2026

Cereals Canada announced the appointment of Leif Carlson as Vice President, Markets and Trade, effective immediately. In this role, he is responsible for leading efforts to expand and protect global market opportunities for Canada’s cereal crops. The position plays an important role in... Read this article online

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