INSTITUTIONAL

MEAT

PURCHASE

SPECIFICATIONS

FRESH BEEF

SERIES 100

EFFECTIVE: November 2014
2

Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications

Fresh Beef - Series 100

Contents

Section Title Page Section Title Page

1.0 Introduction 3 4.1 Contact Information 19

1.1 IMPS Documents 3 5.0 Material Requirements 19

1.2 Contact Information 3 6.0 Quality 19

2.0 IMPS Ordering Checklist 4 6.1 Excellent Condition 19

2.1 Checklist Elements 4 6.2 Lean Quality 20

3.0 Ordering Data to be Specified by the Purchaser 4 6.3 Workmanship 20

3.1 Item No., PSO’s & Special Instructions 4 6.4 Fat Trimming 20

3.1.1 Abbreviations 5 6.4.1 Peeled/Denuded 21

3.1.2 Added Ingredients 5 6.4.2 Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane 

Removed 21

3.1.3 Mechanical Tenderization 6 6.4.3 Cuts & Roast Items 21

3.1.4 Aging 6 6.4.4 Bridging & Planing 21

3.2 Grade & Special Requirements 7 6.4.5 Diced & Portion-Cut Items 22

3.2.1 Categories 7 6.4.6 Seam Fat 22

3.2.2 Contact Information 7 6.5 Objectionable Materials 22

3.2.3 Grade Designations 8 6.5.1 Specified Risk Materials 23

3.3 State of Refrigeration 8 7.0 Diagrams 24

3.4 Fat Limitations 8 7.1 Beef Side Skeletal Diagram 24

3.4.1 Carcasses & Quarters 8 7.2 Beef Side Primal Diagram 25

3.4.2 Cuts, Roasts, Diced & Special Trim Items 8 7.3 Primal Separations Diagram 26

3.4.3 Portion-Cuts 9 7.3.1 Rib-Chuck Separation 27

3.4.4 Comminuted Products & Trimmings 9 7.3.2 Chuck-Brisket Separation 28

3.4.5 Fat Content Verification 9 7.3.3 Rib-Loin Separation 29

3.5 Portion-Cut Weight, Thickness & Shape 10 7.3.4 Short Plate-Rib Separation 30

3.5.1 Weight & Thickness 10 7.3.5 Short Loin-Sirloin Separation 31

3.5.2 Shape 10 7.3.6 Loin-Round Separation 32

3.6 Weight Range 11 8.0 Cut Descriptions 33

3.7 Netting & Tying 18 8.1 Myology 33

3.8 Packing & Packaging 19 8.2 Foodservice Cut Descriptions 33

3.9 Quality Assurance 19 8.3 Portion Cut Descriptions 61

4.0 USDA Certification & Verification 19 9.0 Glossary 70
3

1.0 Introduction

1.1 IMPS Documents

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) through its Agricultural Marketing Service 

(AMS) develops and maintains the Institutional Meat Purchase Specifications (IMPS) for meat 

and meat products. The complete IMPS series includes the following 11 documents:

General Requirements (GR)

Quality Assurance Provisions (QAP)

Fresh Beef Series 100

Fresh Lamb Series 200

Fresh Veal and Calf Series 300

Fresh Pork Series 400

Cured, Cured and Smoked, and Fully Cooked Pork Products Series 500

Cured, Dried, and Smoked Beef Products Series 600

Variety Meats and By-Products Series 700

Sausage Products Series 800

Fresh Goat Series 11

1.2 Contact Information

These specifications are recommended for use by any meat product procuring activity.

For assurance that procured items comply with these detailed requirements, AMS, through its 

Livestock Poultry and Seed (LPS) Program’s Quality Assessment Division (QAD) provides a 

voluntary meat certification service and a process verification program. For labeling purposes, 

only producers who have meat products certified according to the IMPS or operate under an 

approved IMPS process verified program may use the letters "IMPS" on the product label. 

Purchasers desiring these services should contact:

USDA, AMS, LPS Program, QAD

1400 Independence Ave, SW, Room 3932, Stop 0258

Washington, DC 20250

Phone: (202) 720-3271

http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/QAD
4

2.0 IMPS Ordering Checklist

2.1 Checklist Elements

The following checklist will assist the purchaser in providing contractual language necessary to 

describe the IMPS product and service desired. Each element within the checklist is further 

defined within Section 3.0 - Ordering Data to be Specified by the Purchaser.

Item Number

Special instructions

Purchaser Specified Option (PSO)

Added ingredients

Mechanical Tenderization

Aging

Grade and Special Requirements

State of Refrigeration (See IMPS GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.)

Chilled

Frozen

Fat Limitations

Portion Cut Weight, Thickness, and Shape

Weight Range

Netting and Tying

Packaging and Packing (See IMPS GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.)

Quality Assurance (See IMPS QUALITY ASSURANCE PROVISIONS.)

Method of examination

Acceptable Quality Levels (AQL’s)

Certification - (See IMPS GR and QAP.)

3.0 Ordering Data to be Specified by the Purchaser

3.1 Item Number, PSO’s & Special Instructions

The purchaser shall specify: (1) IMPS item number and product name to be purchased, and if 

applicable, (2) PSO’s, (3) added ingredients, applicable options, modifications, and special 

instructions to the requirements of the IMPS. 
5

3.1.1 Abbreviations

In conjunction with other markings that may be required in the GR and by Meat and Poultry 

Inspection Regulations, the IMPS item number, “Beef”, and the product name listed above shall 

be used for marking of shipping containers. Abbreviation of the product name is 

recommended. Abbreviations, when used, shall be as follows:

Bone in – Bn-in Intermediate - Inter Short Cut – Sh Cut

Boneless - Bnls Individual Muscle - IM Shoulder - Shld

Center Cut - Cntr Cut Neck off – Nk-off Sirloin - Sirln

Cover - Cov Not to Exceed - NTE Skinned - Sknd

Deckle – Dkle Oven-Prepared –

Oven-Prep Special - Sp

Defatted - Dfatd Partially - Part Square Cut – Sq-Cut

Denuded - Dnd Peeled - Pld Steak - Stk

Diamond – Dia Porterhouse - Prthse Tenderloin - Tender

Divided – Div Portion - Portn Triangle Tip – Tri Tip

Extra - Ex Regular – Reg Trimmed - Trmd

Fresh - Fr Roast-Ready – Rst-Rdy Untrimmed - Untrmd

Frozen - Frz Roast - Rst

Ground - Grnd Round - Rnd

The product names and abbreviations listed in this series have been reviewed and approved by 

USDA; FSIS; Office of Policy and Program Development (OPPD); Labeling and Program 

Delivery Staff, Washington D.C.

3.1.2 Added Ingredients

To enhance product performance, the purchaser may specify ingredients to be added to any 

IMPS fresh beef item. Ingredients may be added by immersion or injection. The purchaser 

may specify any one of the following levels of added ingredients within a purchase order:

Option No. Maximum Percentage of Added Ingredients

1 7%

2 10%

3 12%

4 15%

5 ≥15%
6

The use of ingredients, method of addition, and product labeling shall comply with FSIS 

Regulations and Policies.

3.1.3 Mechanical Tenderization

To enhance the tenderness of beef products, the purchaser may specify roasts or raw materials 

to be made into portion cuts to be mechanically tenderized. When specified, the roast or raw 

materials to be portioned shall be mechanically tenderized by using the multiple probe method 

(pinning) not more than one time. 

3.1.4 Aging

The purchaser shall specify the aging type and time desired. For assistance in specifying these 

parameters, use the following tables.

Type Description

Wet Aging

Meat is vacuum-packaged in a high moisture-impermeable 

bag and stored in cooler conditions (33 - 36oF) for a specified 

length of time.

Dry Aging

Meat is unpackaged and directly exposed to cooler conditions 

with designated temperature (33 - 36oF), humidity (85 – 90%) 

and air-flow (positive) controls.

Time Description

0 – 5 days Green

5 – 7 days Moderately aged

7 – 15 days Aged

>15 days Extremely aged
7

3.2 Grade & Special Requirements

3.2.1 Categories

The purchaser may specify any combination of the following grade and special requirement 

categories when ordering. NOTE: Only one selection per category, per order.

Category

Quality 

Grade*

U.S. 

Prime

U.S. 

Choice

U.S. 

Select

U.S. 

Standard

U.S. 

Commercial

U.S. 

Utility

U.S. 

Cutter

U.S. 

Canner Other

Yield 

Grade** 1 2 3 4 5

Breed 

Certification As Specified by Purchaser

Marbling As Specified by Purchaser

Maturity As Specified by Purchaser

Carcass Wt. 

Range As Specified by Purchaser

Specified 

Risk 

Materials

Removal

As Specified by Purchaser

Diet*** As Specified by Purchaser

*Quality grades predict palatability of lean and are applied to carcasses. They are determined 

by evaluation of carcass maturity and quality of lean. 

**Yield grades predict the yield of closely trimmed boneless retail cuts to be derived from the 

major wholesale cuts.

***The diet category will allow the purchaser to specify the ingredients included in the animal’s 

ration.

3.2.2 Contact Information

The purchaser may request documentation from the vendor, stating that cuts are derived from 

carcasses meeting the special requirements. For certification of the special requirements, a 

verification program must be in place. Contact the Meat Grading and Certification Branch for 

development of verification programs (refer to Section 1.2 - Contact Information).
8

3.2.3 Grade Designations

Official grade designations will appear in any one or any combination of the following ways: (1) 

shipping container markings, or (2) on individual bags or wrapping material. The processor 

shall comply with Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) grade labeling procedures.

3.3 State of Refrigeration

Purchaser shall specify the state of refrigeration (chilled or frozen) for delivery of product. (See 

IMPS GR.)

3.4 Fat Limitations

3.4.1 Carcasses & Quarters

The purchaser shall specify yield grade and/or maximum fat thickness as described below. 

3.4.2 Cuts, Roasts, Diced, & Special Trim Items

The purchaser shall specify maximum surface fat thickness requirements unless fat limitations 

for surface and/or seam fat are indicated in the item descriptions. Maximum fat thickness 

requirements may be specified in terms of “average” or “at any one point”. Alternative 

“average” and/or “at any one point” fat limitations may be specified.

Option 

No. Maximum Average Thickness Maximum At Any One Point

1 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) "Commodity trim" 1.0 inch (25 mm)

2 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) 1⁄2-inch (13 mm)

3 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) 1⁄4-inch (6 mm)

4 Practically Free (75% lean/seam surface 

exposed) 1⁄8-inch (3 mm)

5

Peeled/Denuded* (remaining fat shall not 

exceed 1.0 inch (25 mm) in the longest 

dimension and/or 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in thickness)

1⁄8-inch (3 mm)

6 Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane 

Removed* (90% lean exposed) 1⁄8-inch (3 mm)

*See Section 6.4.

Note: When average fat thicknesses are specified by the purchaser or in item descriptions, the 

appropriate "Maximum at Any One Point" limitation shall apply.
9

3.4.3 Portion-Cuts

The purchaser shall specify the maximum (at any one point) thickness of surface fat on the 

edges of the steak unless fat limitations for surface and/or seam fat are indicated in the detailed 

item descriptions. Alternative fat limitations may be specified. If not specified, surface fat 

thickness shall not exceed 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) at any one point.

Option No. Maximum At Any One Point

1 1⁄4-inch (6 mm)

2 1⁄8-inch (3 mm)

3 Practically free (75% lean/seam surface exposed and 

remaining fat shall not exceed 1⁄8-inch (3 mm))

4

Peeled/Denuded* (remaining fat shall not exceed 1.0 inch 

(25 mm) in the longest dimension and/or 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in 

thickness))

5 Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane Removed* (90% lean 

exposed and remaining fat shall not exceed 1⁄8-inch (3 mm))

*See Section 6.4.

3.4.4 Comminuted Products & Trimmings

Fat limitations for these items shall be expressed in terms of a fat content percentage. Fat 

content describes the percentage of fat present in the product. Unless otherwise specified, the 

fat content shall not exceed 22 percent. However, the purchaser may specify any fat content 

provided it does not exceed 30 percent and may specify discount ranges. 

The purchaser shall specify the fat content analysis to be determined on a (1) composite 

analysis, or (2) average analysis method (as defined within the IMPS QAP.) If the purchaser 

does not specify either method, the procedures for average fat content analysis method shall be 

used. 

3.4.5 Fat Content Verification

The fat content shall be specified by the purchaser and verified by one or any combination of the 

following PSO’s. If not specified, the fat content shall be verified with PSO #2 requirements.

Option No. Fat Content

1

Fat content shall be declared on the product label along 

with a nutrition facts panel in accordance with FSIS 

regulations

2 Contractor shall submit documentation of fat analysis to 

purchaser

3 Fat content certified by AMS (see QAP.)
10

4 Samples selected by AMS and sent to purchaser 

designated laboratory

3.5 Portion Cut Weight, Thickness & Shape

3.5.1 Weight & Thickness

The purchaser shall specify the portion weight and/or thickness desired. For assistance in 

specifying weight, see weight range tables. Unless other portion weight and/or thickness 

tolerances are specified by the purchaser, the following tables shall be used. When both weight 

and thickness are specified, it is recommended that those requirements be limited to items that 

are mechanically pressed and/or sliced.

Portion Thickness Tolerances*

Specified Thickness Thickness Tolerance Thickness 

Uniformity

1 inch (25 mm) or less +/- 3/16-inch (5 mm) 3/16-inch (5 mm)

More than 1 inch (25 mm) +/- 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) 1⁄4-inch (6 mm)

* Thickness measurements are not applicable within 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) of the edge. Also, value 

listed under thickness uniformity is the maximum allowable difference between the thinnest and 

thickest measurement of an individual steak.

Portion Weight Tolerances

Specified Weight Weight 

Tolerance

Thickness 

Uniformity*

Less than 6.0 ounces (170 g) +/- 1⁄4 oz. (7 g) 3/16-inch (5 mm)

6.0 (170 g) to 12.0 ounces (340 

g) +/- 1⁄2 oz. (14 g) 1⁄4-inch (6 mm)

12.01 (341 g) to 24.0 ounces 

(680 g) +/- 3⁄4 oz. (21 g) 3⁄8-inch (9 mm)

24.01 ounces (681 g) or more +/- 1 oz. (28 g) 1⁄2-inch (13 mm)

3.5.2 Shape

Unless otherwise specified, the shape of whole muscle portions cuts shall resemble the 

approximate shape relative to the cut of origin. Cubed and braising steaks which are 

mechanically pressed and sliced shall be uniform in shape. Unless otherwise specified, patties 

shall be round.
11

3.6 Weight Range

Purchaser shall specify IMPS item number, product name, and weight range to be purchased. 

The following weight ranges are intended as guidelines. Carcass weights are not 

necessarily related to the weight of cuts within their respective weight range. Other 

weights or ranges may be specified.

Foodservice Cuts

Item 

No. Product Name Weight Ranges (Pounds) Page

A B C D #

100 Carcass 500-600 600-700 700-800 800-up 33

100A Carcass, Trimmed 475-575 575-675 675-775 775-up 33

101 Side 250-300 300-350 350-400 400-up 33

102 Forequarter 131-157 157-183 183-210 210-up 33

102A Forequarter, Boneless 104-125 125-146 146-168 168-up 33

103 Rib, Primal 24-28 28-33 33-38 38-up 33

103A Rib, Regular 18-20 20-24 24-27 27-up 33

104 Rib, Oven-Prepared, Regular 19-22 22-26 26-30 30-up 34

107 Rib, Oven-Prepared 17-19 19-23 23-26 26-up 34

107A Rib, Oven-Prepared, Blade Bone 

In 17-19 19-23 23-26 26-up 34

108 Rib, Oven-Prepared, Boneless 13-16 16-19 19-22 22-up 34

109 Rib, Roast-Ready 14-16 16-19 19-22 22-up 34

109A Rib, Roast-Ready, Special 14-16 16-19 19-22 22-up 34

109B Rib, Blade Meat 3-up 35

109C Rib, Roast-Ready, Cover Off 13-15 15-18 18-21 21-up 35

109D Rib, Roast-Ready, Cover Off, Short 

Cut (Export Style) 12-14 14-17 17-20 20-up 35

109E Rib, Ribeye Roll, Lip-On, Bone In 11-13 13-16 16-19 20-up 35

110 Rib, Roast-Ready, Boneless 11-13 13-16 16-19 19-up 35

111 Rib, Spencer Roll 10-12 12-15 15-18 18-up 35

112 Rib, Ribeye Roll 5-6 6-8 8-10 10-up 35

112A Rib, Ribeye Roll, Lip-On 6-7 7-9 9-11 11-up 36

112C Rib, Ribeye (IM) 4-6 6-8 8-10 10-up 36

112D Rib, Ribeye Cap (IM) 1-2 3-4 4-up 36

113 Chuck, Square-Cut 66-79 79-93 93-106 106-up 36

113A Chuck, Square-Cut, Divided 66-79 79-93 93-106 106-up 36

113B Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, 

Divided 35-40 40-47 47-55 55-up 36

113C Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, 2 

Piece, Semi Boneless 33-40 40-46 46-50 50-up 36

114 Chuck, Shoulder (Clod) 13-15 15-18 18-21 21-up 36

114A Chuck, Shoulder Roast 15-dn 15-18 18-21 21-up 36

114B Chuck, Shoulder Roast, Special 15-dn 15-18 18-21 21-up 37
12

Foodservice Cuts (continued)

Item 

No. Product Name Weight Ranges (Pounds) Page# A B C D

114C Chuck, Shoulder (Clod), 

Trimmed, (2-Piece) 12-dn 12-14 14-18 18-up 37

114D Chuck, Shoulder (clod), Top 

Blade 2-dn 2-3 4-5 5-up 37

114E Chuck, Shoulder (Clod), Arm 

Roast 8-dn 8-10 10-12 12-up 37

114F Chuck, Shoulder, Tender (IM) 0.5-dn 0.5-up 37

114G Chuck, Shoulder, Arm, Center 

Cut (IM) 3-5 5-7 7-up 38

115 Chuck, Square-Cut, Boneless 54-65 65-77 77-88 88-up 38

115A Chuck, Blade Portion, 

Boneless 22-25 25-29 29-34 34-up 38

115B Chuck, Arm-Out, Boneless 35-40 40-47 47-55 55-up 38

115C Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, 

Boneless 48-59 59-70 70-81 81-up 38

115D Chuck, Square-Cut, Pectoral 

Meat (IM) 5-dn 5-up 38

116 Chuck, Square-Cut, Clod-Out, 

Boneless 40-48 48-57 57-65 65-up 38

116A Chuck, Chuck Roll 13-15 15-18 18-21 21-up 38

116B Chuck, Chuck Tender 1-dn 1-3 3-up 39

116C Chuck, Chuck Roll, 

Untrimmed 16-18 18-20 20-22 22-up 39

116D Chuck, Chuck Eye Roll 8-dn 8-10 10-14 14-up 39

116E Chuck, Under Blade Roast 8-dn 8-10 10-14 14-up 39

116F Chuck, Under Blade, Flat Cut 

(IM) 5-dn 5-up 40

116G Chuck, Under Blade, Center 

Cut (IM) 7-dn 7-up 40

116H Chuck, Chuck Eye (IM) 4-dn 4-up 40

116I Chuck, Neck Roast 5-dn 5-up 40

116K Chuck Roll, 3-Way 10-12 12-16 16-19 19-up 40

117 Foreshank 7-8 8-10 10-12 12-up 40

118 Brisket 12-14 14-17 17-20 20-up 40

119 Brisket, Deckle-On, Boneless 9-10 10-12 12-14 14-up 40

120 Brisket, Deckle-Off, Boneless 6-8 8-10 10-12 12-up 40

120A Brisket, Flat Cut, Boneless

(IM) 4-6 6-8 8-10 10-up 40

120B Brisket, Point Cut, Boneless

(IM) 3-dn 3-4 4-6 6-up 41

120C Brisket, 2 Piece, Boneless 6-8 8-10 10-12 12-up 41

121 Plate, Short Plate 20-27 27-31 31-35 35-up 41

121A Plate, Short Plate, Boneless 12-14 14-16 16-18 18-up 41

121B Plate, Short Plate, Trimmed, 

Boneless 8-12 12-14 14-16 16-up 41
13

121C Plate, Outside Skirt (IM) 1-2 2-3 3-up 41

Foodservice Cuts (continued)

Item 

No. Product Name

Weight Ranges (Pounds) Page

#

A B C D

121D Plate, Inside Skirt (IM) 1-3 3-4 4-up 41

121E Plate, Outside Skirt (IM), 

Skinned 1-2 2-3 3-up 41

121F Plate, Short Plate, Short Ribs 

Removed 18-25 25-28 28-33 33-up 41

121G Plate, Short Plate, Short Ribs 

Removed, Boneless 10-12 12-14 14-16 16-up 41

122 Plate, Full 28-37 37-44 44-51 51-up 41

122A Plate, Full, Boneless 21-27 27-29 29-32 32-up 42

123 Short Ribs 2-3 3-4 4-5 5-up 42

123A Short Plate, Short Ribs, 

Trimmed Amount as Specified 42

123B Rib, Short Ribs, Trimmed Amount as Specified 42

123C Rib, Short Ribs Amount as Specified 43

123D Short Ribs, Boneless 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-up 43

124 Rib, Back Ribs Amount as Specified 43

124A Rib, Back Rib, Rib Fingers Amount as Specified 43

124B Plate, Rib Fingers Amount as Specified 43

125 Chuck, Armbone 77-88 88-103 103-118 118-up 43

126 Chuck, Armbone, Boneless 59-70 70-82 82-90 90-up 43

126A Chuck, Armbone, Clod-Out, 

Boneless 46-57 57-69 69-77 77-up 43

127 Chuck, Cross-Cut 86-103 103-120 120-138 138-up 43

128 Chuck, Cross-Cut, Boneless 68-81 81-95 95-109 109-up 43

130 Chuck, Short Ribs 2-3 3-4 4-5 5-up 43

130A Chuck, Short Ribs, Boneless 0.5-1.5 1.5-2.5 2.5-3.5 3.5-up 43

132 Triangle 107-129 129-150 150-172 172-up 43

133 Triangle, Boneless 83-101 101-117 117-134 134-up 44

134 Beef Bones Amount as Specified 44

135 Diced Beef Amount as Specified 44

135A Beef for Stewing Amount as Specified 44

135B Beef for Kabobs Amount as Specified 44

135C Beef for Stir Fry Amount as Specified 44

136 Ground Beef Amount as Specified 45

136A Ground Beef and Soy Protein 

Product Patty Mix Amount as Specified 46

136C Beef Patty Mix, NTE 10% Fat Amount as Specified 46

136D Pure Beef Amount as Specified 46

137 Ground Beef, Special Amount as Specified 47
14

137A Ground Beef and Soy Protein 

Product, Special Amount as Specified 48

Foodservice Cuts (continued)

Item 

No. Product Name

Weight Ranges (Pounds) Page

# A B C D

138 Beef Trimmings Amount as Specified 48

139 Special Trim, Boneless Amount as specified 48

140 Hanging Tender (IM) 3-dn 3-up 48

155 Hindquarter 119-143 143-167 167-190 190-up 48

155A Hindquarter, Boneless 90-108 108-126 126-143 143-up 48

157 Hindshank 7-8 8-10 10-12 12-up 49

158 Round, Primal 59-71 71-83 83-95 95-up 49

158A Round, Diamond-Cut 63-76 76-89 89-102 102-up 49

158B Round, NY Style 50-63 63-75 75-88 88-up 49

159 Round, Primal, Boneless 44-53 53-62 62-71 71-up 49

160 Round, Shank-Off, Partially 

Boneless 47-57 57-67 67-76 76-up 49

160A Round, Diamond Cut, Shank 

Off, Partially Boneless 50-60 60-70 70-80 80-up 50

160B Round, Heel and Shank Out, 

Semi-Boneless 38-46 46-54 54-60 60-up 50

161 Round, Shank Off, Boneless 42-51 51-62 62-71 71-up 50

161A Round, Diamond Cut, Shank 

Off, Boneless 44-53 53-62 62-71 71-up 50

161B Round, Heel and Shank Off, 

Without Sirloin Tip, Boneless 30-37 37-44 44-51 51-up 50

163 Round, Shank Off, 3-Way, 

Boneless 41-50 50-58 58-66 66-up 50

163A Round, Shank Off, 3-Way, 

Untrimmed, Boneless 42-50 50-58 58-66 66-up 50

164 Round, Rump and Shank Off 40-48 48-56 56-64 64-up 51

165 Round, Rump and Shank Off, 

Boneless 35-43 43-50 50-57 57-up 51

165A Round, Rump and Shank Off, 

Boneless, Special 38-46 46-54 54-60 60-up 51

165B Round, Rump and Shank Off, 

Boneless, Special 38-46 46-54 54-60 60-up 51

166 Round, Rump and Shank Off, 

Boneless 35-43 43-50 50-57 57-up 51

166A Round, Rump Partially 

Removed, Shank Off 44-52 52-61 61-70 70-up 51

166B Round, Rump and Shank 

Partially Off, Handle On 44-52 52-61 61-70 70-up 51

167 Round, Sirloin Tip(Knuckle) 8-9 9-11 11-13 13-up 51

167A Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), 

Peeled 7-8 8-10 10-12 12-up 52
15

167B Round, Full Sirloin Tip 10-12 12-14 14-16 16-up 52

Foodservice Cuts (continued)

Item 

No. Product Name

Weight Ranges (Pounds) Page

A B C D #

167C Round, Sirloin (Full) Tip 9-11 11-13 13-15 15-up 52

167D Round, Sirloin Tip, Peeled, 

2-Piece 5-7 7-9 9-12 12-up 52

167E Round, Sirloin Tip, Center 

Roast (IM) 2-3 3-5 5-up 52

167F Round, Sirloin Tip, Side Roast 

(IM) 2-3 3-4 4-up 52

168 Round, Top (Inside), 

Untrimmed 14-17 17-20 20-23 23-up 53

169 Round, Top (Inside) 14-17 17-20 20-23 23-up 53

169A Round, Top (Inside), Cap Off 12-15 15-18 18-20 20-up 53

169B Round, Top (Inside), Cap (IM) 1-2 2-3 3-up 53

169C Round, Top (Inside), Front 

Side (IM) 1-dn 1-up 53

169D Round, Top (Inside) Soft Side 

Removed 15-16 16-19 19-22 22-up 53

169E Round, Top (Inside) (IM) 5-dn 5-up 53

170 Round, Bottom (Gooseneck) 18-23 23-27 27-31 31-up 53

170A Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), 

Heel Out 17-20 20-24 24-28 28-up 53

171 Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), 

Untrimmed 18-21 21-25 25-29 29-up 53

171A Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), 

Untrimmed, Heel Out 17-20 20-24 24-28 28-up 54

171B Round, Outside Round (Flat) 8-10 10-13 13-16 16-up 54

171C Round, Eye of Round (IM) 3-dn 3-5 5-up 54

171D Round, Outside Round, Side 

Muscle Removed (IM) 6-8 8-12 12-up 54

171E Round, Outside Round, Side 

Roast (IM) 2-3 3-5 5-up 54

171F Round, Outside Round, Heel 3-5 5-7 7-up 54

171G Round, Outside Round, Rump 

(IM) 2-3 3-5 5-up 54

172 Loin, Full Loin, Trimmed 30-37 37-45 45-52 52-up 54

172A Loin, Full Loin, Diamond Cut, 

Trimmed 35-42 42-50 50-57 57-up 55

173 Loin, Short Loin 17-24 24-30 30-35 35-up 55

174 Loin, Short Loin, Short-Cut 14-20 20-25 25-30 30-up 55

175 Loin, Strip Loin 11-14 14-18 18-22 22-up 55

176 Loin, Steak Tails 2-3 3-5 5-up 56

180 Loin, Strip Loin, Boneless 8-10 10-12 12-14 14-up 56

180B Loin, Strip Loin, Split, 

Boneless 8-10 10-12 12-14 14-up 56

181 Loin, Sirloin 16-19 19-24 24-28 28-up 56

181A Loin, Top Sirloin 11-14 14-17 17-20 20-up 57
16

182 Loin, Sirloin Butt, Boneless 11-14 14-16 16-19 19-up 57

Foodservice Cuts (continued)

Item 

No. Product Name Weight Ranges (pounds) Page# A B C D

183 Loin, Sirloin Butt, Trimmed, 

Boneless 9-10 10-13 13-15 15-up 57

184 Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, 

Boneless 8-10 10-12 12-14 14-up 57

184A Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Semi 

Center-Cut, Boneless 7-9 9-11 11-13 13-up 57

184B

Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, 

Center-Cut, Cap Off (IM), 

Boneless

5-7 7-9 9-11 11-up 57

184C Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, 

Untrimmed, Boneless 8-10 10-12 12-14 14-up 58

184D Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Cap (IM) 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-up 58

184E Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, 2-Piece 8-9 9-11 11-13 13-up 58

184F 

Loin, Top Sirloin Butt,

Center-Cut, Seamed, Dorsal 

Side (IM) 

3-dn 3-up 58

185 Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, 

Boneless 5-6 6-7 7-8 8-up 58

185A Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Flap, 

Boneless (IM) 1-3 3-up 58

185B Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Ball 

Tip, Boneless 1.5-3 3-up 58

185C Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, 

Tri-Tip, Boneless (IM) 1.5-3 3-up 58

185D Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, 

Tri-Tip, Defatted, Boneless 1.5-3 3-up 58

186 Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, 

Trimmed, Boneless 2-3 3-4 4-5 5-up 59

188 Loin, Tenderloin, Bone-in 5-dn 5-up 59

189 Loin, Tenderloin, Full 4-5 5-6 6-7 7-up 59

189A Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side 

Muscle On, Defatted 3-4 4-5 5-6 6-up 59

189B Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side 

Muscle On, Partially Defatted 3-4 4-5 5-6 6-up 59

190 Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side 

Muscle Off, Defatted 2-3 3-4 4-up 59

190A Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side 

Muscle Off, Skinned 2-3 3-4 4-up 59

190B

Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side 

Muscle Off, Center-Cut,

Skinned (IM)

under 2 2-up 59

191 Loin, Tenderloin, Butt 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-up 59

191A Loin, Tenderloin Butt, Defatted 1-2 2-3 3-4 4-up 60

191B Loin, Tenderloin Butt, Skinned 2-dn 2-3 3-up 60

192 Loin, Tenderloin, Short 2-3 3-4 4-up 60

192A Loin, Tenderloin Tails Amount as Specified 60

193 Flank, Flank Steak (IM) 1-dn 1-2 2-up 60
17

194 Flank, Rose Meat (IM) Amount as Specified 60

Portion Cuts

Item No. Product Name Suggested Portion Weight Range 

(Ounces)

Page

#

1100 Cubed Steak 3-8 61

1101 Cubed Steak, Special 3-8 61

1102 Braising Steak, Swiss 4-8 61

1103 Rib, Rib Steak, Bone-In 8-18 61

1103A Rib, Rib Steak, Boneless 4-12 61

1103B Rib, Rib Steak, Frenched, Bone In 3-16 61

1112 Rib, Ribeye Roll Steak, Boneless 4-12 62

1112A Rib, Ribeye Steak, Lip-On, Boneless 4-12 62

1112B Rib, Ribeye Steak, Lip-On, Short Cut, Boneless 4-12 62

1112C Rib, Ribeye Steak 4-12 62

1112D Rib, Ribeye Cap Steak 4-8 62

1114D Chuck, Shoulder, Top Blade Steak 4-12 63

1114E Chuck, Shoulder, Arm Steak, Boneless 4-10 63

1114F Chuck, Shoulder Tender, Portioned (IM) 2-14 63

1116D Chuck, Chuck Eye Roll Steak 4-12 63

1116G Chuck, Under Blade, Center-Cut Steak 4-12 64

1116H Chuck, Chuck Eye Steak 4-12 64

1121D Plate, Inside Skirt Steak (IM), Boneless 4-8 64

1121E Plate, Outside Skirt Steak, Skinned (IM) 4-8 64

1123 Short Ribs, Bone-Ine 3-10 64

1136 Ground Beef Patties Desired ounces or number per pound 64

1130 Chuck, Short Rib, Bone-In 3-10 65

1136 Ground Beef Patties Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1136A Ground Beef and Soy Protein Product Patties Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1136B Beef Patties Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1136C Beef Patties, NTE 10% Fat Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1136D Pure Beef Patties Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1137 Ground Beef Patties, Special Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1137A Ground Beef and Soy Protein Product Patties, Special Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1138 Beef Steaks, Flaked and Formed, Frozen Desired ounces or number per pound 65

1138A Beef Sandwich Steaks, Flaked, Chopped, Formed, and 

Wafer Sliced, Frozen Desired ounces 66

1138B Beef Steaks, Sliced and Formed, Frozen Desired ounces 66

1139 Beef Slices Desired ounces or thickness 66

1140 Hanger Steaks 4-8 66

1150 Top Side Steak, Boneless 4-16 66

1167 Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak 3-10 66

1167A Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak, Peeled 3-10 66

1167D Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak, Peeled, Special 4-8 66

1167E Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Center Steaks (IM) 4-8 66
18

1167F Round, Sirloin Tip (knuckle), Side Steaks (IM) 4-8 66

1169 Round, Top (Inside) Round Steak 3-12 67

1169A Round, Top (Inside) Cap-Off, Round Steak 3-12 67

1169C Round Top (Inside) Round, Front Side Steak 3-12 67

Portion Cuts (continued)

Item No. Product Name Suggested Portion Weight Range 

(Ounces)

Page

#

1170A Round, Bottom (Gooseneck) Round Steak 3-24

1171D Round, Outside Round Steaks (IM) 3-24 67

1171G Round, Outside Round, Rump Steak (IM) 3-12 67

1173 Loin, Porterhouse Steak 10-12 68

1174 Loin, T-Bone Steak 8-24 68

1179 Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Bone-in 8-24 68

1179A Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Center Cut, Bone-In 8-24 68

1180 Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Boneless 6-20 68

1180A Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Center-Cut, Boneless 6-20 68

1180B Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Split, Boneless 4-12 68

1184 Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Boneless 4-24 68

1184A Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Semi Center-Cut, Boneless 4-16 69

1184B Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Center-Cut, Boneless (IM) 4-16 69

1184D Loin, Top Sirloin Cap Steak, Boneless (IM) 4-8 69

1184F Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Center-Cut, Seamed, Dorsal 

Side (IM), Boneless 3-8 69

1185A Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Flap Steak (IM) 3-8 69

1185B Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Ball Tip Steak 3-10 69

1185C Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip Steak (IM) 3-8 69

1185D Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip Steak, Defatted (IM) 3-8 69

1188 Loin, Tenderloin, Steak, Bone-in 3-8 69

1189 Loin, Tenderloin Steak 4-14 69

1189A Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle On, Defatted 3-14 69

1189B Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle On, Partially Defatted 3-14 70

1190 Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle Off, Defatted 3-14 70

1190A Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle Off, Skinned 3-14 70

1190B Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Center-Cut, Skinned 3-14 70

1190C Loin, Tenderloin Tips Amount as Specified 70

3.7 Netting & Tying

Many of the item descriptions require roasts to be netted or tied to facilitate institutional 

style cookery methods. The purchaser may specify the netting and tying requirements 

for such items as needed.

When tying is required, stretchable netting (or any other equivalent material) shall be 

used to make roasts firm and compact. Unless otherwise specified, roasts shall be 

netted so that all portions are held intact, without any portions protruding through the ends 
19

of the netting. Conversely, excess netting at the portion ends shall be no more than 2.0 

inches (5.0 cm) in length. Alternatively, roasts may be string tied by loops of twine 

uniformly spaced at no more than approximately 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) intervals along the 

items length). When tying does not make roasts firm and compact, lengthwise tying may 

be used. For net weight verification, netting and tying material shall be included along 

with packaging materials when determining tare weight.

3.8 Packaging & Packing

Purchaser shall specify packaging and packing for delivery of product. (See IMPS GR.)

3.9 Quality Assurance

The purchaser may consult the IMPS QAP for options regarding production examination 

and lot acceptance criteria in terms of acceptable AQLs. 

4.0 USDA Certification and Verification

4.1 Contact Information

When requested, the purchaser shall specify within a contract or purchase order that product 

shall be certified or that the producer is operating under an approved IMPS Process Verified 

Program by the USDA, AMS, LPS, QAD. The IMPS 

QAP, http://www.ams.usda.gov/AMSv1.0/getfile?dDocName=STELDEV3003293, will be used 

to determine compliance. Purchasers desiring these services should contact:

USDA, AMS, LPS Program, QAD

1400 Independence Ave, SW, Room 3932, Stop 0258

Washington, DC 20250

Phone: (202) 720-3271

5.0 Material Requirements

All products offered shall comply with the following material requirements and the individual item 

descriptions. For certification, product shall be evaluated in accordance with the IMPS QAP.

6.0 Quality

6.1 Excellent Condition

All product offered as meeting the specification requirements must be in excellent condition. 

For certification, product shall be in the fresh-chilled state (not previously frozen) when 

examined for excellent condition; e.g., exposed lean and fat surfaces shall be of a color and 

bloom normally associated with the class, grade, and cut of meat, and typical of meat which has 

been properly stored and handled. Cut surfaces and naturally exposed lean surfaces shall 

show no more than slight darkening or discoloration due to dehydration, aging, and/or microbial 

activity. The fat shall show no more than very slight discoloration due to oxidation or microbial 

activity. No odors foreign to fresh meat shall be present. Changes in color and odors 

characteristically associated with vacuum packaged meat in excellent condition shall be 
20

acceptable. Also, product shall show no evidence of freezing, defrosting, or mishandling. 

Beef must be maintained in excellent condition through processing, storage, and transit. 

Portion-cut and ground items to be delivered frozen may be produced from frozen meat cuts 

which have been previously certified in the fresh-chilled state, provided such cuts show no 

evidence of deterioration. Unless otherwise specified, portion cut items shall maintain their 

approximate original shape. Products thus produced shall be packaged, packed, and returned 

promptly to the freezer. 

6.2 Lean Quality

Except for ground and flaked items, dark cutting and/or calloused beef is not acceptable. All 

beef shall be free of bruises, blood clots, bloody tissue, blood discoloration, exposed blood 

vessels, cod and/or udder fat, gambrel cord, specified risk materials or any other conditions 

which would negatively affect the use of the product. 

Beef cuts shall be free of dislocated or enlarged joints or other malformations of the skeletal 

structure. However, cuts with bones broken during processing are acceptable if the bones are 

not splintered to the extent that the lean around the fracture is affected.

6.3 Workmanship

Except for cuts that are separated through natural seams, all cut surfaces shall form 

approximate right angles with the skin surface. No more than a slight amount lean, fat, or bone 

shall be removed or included from an adjacent cut.

Except for steaks which are cubed and/or knitted or unless otherwise specified in the individual

item description, steaks shall be cut in full slices in a straight line reasonably perpendicular to the 

outer surface and at an approximate right angle to the length of the cut being sliced or portioned. 

For individual muscle cuts, portions shall be made by slicing perpendicular to the grain (muscle 

fiber alignment) of the cut. Portion-cut items shall be practically free of: (1) fractures, (2) tag 

ends, and (3) knife scores. Individual steaks shall remain intact when suspended 1⁄2-inch (13 

mm) from the outer edge.

6.4 Fat Trimming

Trimming of external fat shall be accomplished by smoothly removing the fat following the 

contour of the underlying muscle surface. Beveling of the edges only is not acceptable. Two 

terms used for describing fat limitations are: (1) maximum fat thickness at any one point and (2) 

average fat thickness. Fat thickness requirements may apply to surface fat (external and/or 

exterior fat in relationship to the item) and seam fat (fat between adjacent muscles within an 

item) as specified by the purchaser or within the detailed item description.

6.4.1 Peeled/Denuded

The term "peeled" implies surface fat and muscle separation through natural seams so that the 

resulting cut's seamed surface ("silver" or "blue" tissue) is exposed with remaining "flake" fat 

NTE 1.0 inch (25 mm) in the longest dimension and/or 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in depth at any point. The 
21

term "denuded" implies all surface fat is removed so that the resulting cut's seamed surface 

("silver" or "blue tissue") is exposed with remaining "flake" fat NTE 1.0 inch (25 mm) in any 

dimension and/or 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in depth at any point.

6.4.2 Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane Removed

Peeled/denuded, surface membrane removed requires the surface membrane ("silver" or "blue" 

tissue) to be removed (skinned); the resulting cut surface shall expose at least 90 percent lean 

with remaining "flake" fat NTE 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in depth.

6.4.3 Cuts & Roast Items

For cuts and roast items, the maximum fat thickness at any one point is evaluated by visually 

determining the area of a cut which has the most fat thickness and measure the thickness 

(depth) at this point. The average fat thickness is evaluated by visually determining the areas of 

surface fat and taking multiple measurements in these areas only. The average shall be 

determined by evaluating the amount of surface area that each thickness represents (e.g., if one 

third of the fat surface was 0.2 inch in depth, one third was 0.3 inch in depth and one third was 

0.4 inch in depth, then the average would be 0.3 inch).

The actual measurements of fat are made on the edges of the cut and by probing or scoring the 

overlying surface fat as necessary in a manner that reveals the actual fat thickness and accounts 

for any natural depression or seam which could affect the measurement. 

6.4.4 Bridging & Planing

When a natural depression occurs in a muscle, only the fat above the portion of the depression 

which is more than 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) in width is considered (this method is known as "bridging"). 

When a seam of fat occurs between adjacent muscles only the fat above the level of the involved 

muscles is measured (this method is known as "planing"). However, when fat limitations for 

Peeled/Denuded or Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane Removed are specified, the bridging 

method shall be used for evaluating fat above a natural depression in a muscle and fat occurring 

between adjacent muscles.
22

6.4.5 Diced & Portion-Cut Items

For the purpose of measuring surface fat, the maximum fat thickness at any one point is 

evaluated by visually determining the areas on the edges of either side of the dice or 

portion-cut which have the thickest amount of fat and measuring the thickness (depth) of fat in 

these areas. The average fat thickness is evaluated by visually determining the various areas 

of surface fat and taking multiple measurements in these areas. The average shall be 

determined by evaluating the amount of surface area that each thickness represents.

The actual measurements of fat are made on the edges of the cut and by probing or scoring the 

fat surface as necessary in a manner that reveals the actual fat thickness. For steak items, 

the bridging and/or the planing methods shall be applied to take into account any natural 

depression occurring in a muscle and/or when a seam of fat occurs between adjacent muscles.

 

6.4.6 Seam Fat

For the purpose of measuring seam fat, when specified, the maximum fat thickness at any one 

point is evaluated by visually determining the areas of fat between layers of lean (muscles) on 

any side of the cut which have the thickest (widest) deposits of fat and measuring the width in 

these areas. The average fat thickness is evaluated by visually determining the various areas 

of seam fat and taking multiple measurements in these areas. The average shall be 

determined by evaluating the areas that each thickness (width) represents.

For steak items, the bridging and/or planing methods shall be applied to take into account the 

irregular widths of the seam fat within a muscle depression or between adjacent muscles in order 

to reveal the actual fat thickness (width) of fat within a seam. Seam fat shall be evaluated no 

closer than 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) from the contour (projected perimeter when symmetrically formed or 

unformed) of the outer edge of the steak.

However, when fat limitations for Peeled/Denuded or Peeled/Denuded, Surface Membrane 

Removed are specified, the bridging method shall be used for evaluating surface fat above a 

natural depression in a muscle and fat occurring between adjacent muscles.

6.5 Objectionable Materials

Trimming for further processing into ground, flaked, chopped, or diced items - The processor 

shall remove materials that are objectionable and will have a negative impact on quality of the 

end item. The following objectionable materials shall be excluded: 

• Major lymph glands (prefemoral, popliteal, and prescapular), thymus gland, and the sciatic 

(ischiatic) nerve (lies medial to the outside round).

• All bone, cartilage, and the following heavy connective tissues:

o White fibrous – Shoulder tendon, elbow tendon, silver skin (outside round), sacrociatic 

ligament, opaque periosteum, serous membrane (peritoneum), tendinous ends of 

shanks, gracilis membrane, patellar ligament (associated with the stifle joint), and 

achilles tendon.

o Yellow elastin – Back strap and abdominal tunic.
23

6.5.1 Specified Risk Material

FSIS has declared specified risk materials as unfit for human food because they present a 

sufficient risk of exposing humans to Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy. In accordance with 

9 CFR 310.22, the following specified risk materials shall be completely removed during beef 

harvest and fabrication:

o Cattle 30 months of age and older - All portions of the brain, skull, eyes, trigeminal 

ganglia, spinal cord, vertebral column (excluding the vertebrae of the tail, the 

transverse processes of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae, and the wings of the 

sacrum), and dorsal root ganglia.

o All cattle - The distal ileum of the small intestine and tonsils. 
24

7.0 Diagrams
25

7.2 Beef Side Primal Diagram
26

7.3 Primal Separation Diagrams
27
28

7.3.2 Chuck – Brisket Separation – New Image Coming Soon!
29
30
31

7.3.5 Short Loin – Sirloin Separation – New Image Coming Soon!
32

7.3.6 Loin – Round Separation – New Image Coming Soon!
33

8.0 Cut Descriptions

8.1 Myology

A reference for identification of muscles is the University of Nebraska’s "Bovine Myology & 

Muscle Profiling" Web site (http://bovine.unl.edu) funded by the Beef Checkoff and produced 

by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (www.beef.org). 

8.2 Foodservice Cut Descriptions

Item No. 100 - Beef Carcass - The carcass shall consist of two matched sides each consisting 

of a forequarter and a hindquarter. The sides shall be produced by splitting the carcass down 

the back exposing the spinal groove at least 75 percent of the length of either side. No more 

than a minor amount of major muscles shall be removed from either side. The quarters are 

produced by completely or partially separating the forequarters from the hindquarters by a cut 

following the natural curvature between the 12th and 13th ribs. The diaphragm may be 

removed. However, if present it shall be firmly attached and the membranous portion shall be 

trimmed close to the lean. The thymus gland and heart fat shall be closely removed.

Item No. 100A - Beef Carcass, Trimmed - This item is prepared as described in Item No. 100 

except the kidney, kidney knob, adjacent internal fats, and hanging tender are removed. The 

fat covering the lumbar, sacral, pelvic, and tenderloin regions shall be trimmed NTE 1.0 inch (25 

mm) in depth at any point.

Item No. 101 - Beef Side - This item is as described in Item No. 100 except the side is one 

matched forequarter and hindquarter. The side shall be trimmed as described in Item No. 100.

Item No. 102 - Beef Forequarter - The beef forequarter is the anterior portion of the side after 

severance from the hindquarter as described in Item No. 100. The forequarter shall be 

trimmed as described in Item No. 100.

Item No. 102A - Beef Forequarter, Boneless - This item consists of the boneless rib, chuck, 

brisket, foreshank, and plate. The cut posterior to the 12th rib mark shall follow the natural 

curvature of the rib. The clod (the large muscle system which lies dorsal and posterior to the 

elbow joint, ventral and posterior to the ridge of the scapula, and is anterior to the 6th rib) shall 

be separated as described in Item No. 114. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, prescapular

lymph gland, and tendinous ends of the foreshank and clod evidencing less than 75 percent 

lean on a cross-sectional cut shall be removed. The purchaser shall specify if this item shall 

remain intact or be separated into cuts. 

Item No. 103 - Beef Rib, Primal - The primal rib is that portion of the forequarter remaining 

after removal of the cross-cut chuck and short plate and shall contain seven ribs (6th to 12th 

inclusive), the posterior tip of the blade bone (scapula), and the thoracic vertebra attached to 

the ribs. The loin end shall follow the natural curvature of the 12th rib. The chuck is removed 

by a straight cut between the 5th and 6th ribs. The short plate shall be removed by a straight 

cut which is ventral to, but not more than 6.0 inches (15.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at 

the loin end to a point on the chuck end ventral to, but not more than 10.0 inches (25.4 cm) from, 

the M. longissimus dorsi. The diaphragm and fat on the ventral surface of the vertebrae shall 

be removed.

Item No. 103A - Beef Rib, Regular - This item is prepared as described in Item No. 103 except 

that the short plate shall be removed by a straight cut which is ventral to, but not more than 3.0 

inches (7.5 cm) from the M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck end ventral 
34

to, but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. The protruding edge 

of the chine bone shall be removed.

Item No. 104 - Beef Rib, Oven-Prepared, Regular - The oven prepared rib is as described in 

Item No. 103 except that the short plate shall be removed by a straight cut which is ventral to, 

but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point 

on the chuck end ventral to, but not more than 8.0 inches (20.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus 

dorsi. The chine bone shall be removed such that the lean is exposed between the ribs and 

the feather bone/vertebrae junctures, leaving the feather bones attached. The blade bone and 

related cartilage shall be removed.

Item No. 107 - Beef Rib, Oven-Prepared - This item is prepared as described in Item No. 103 

except that the short plate shall be removed by a straight cut which is ventral to, but not more 

than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from the M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck 

end ventral to, but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. The 

chine bone shall be removed such that the lean is exposed between the ribs and the feather 

bone/vertebrae junctures, leaving the feather bones attached. The blade bone and related 

cartilage shall be removed. 

Item No. 107A - Beef Rib, Oven-Prepared, Blade Bone In - This item is as described in Item 

No. 107 except that the blade bone and related cartilage may remain.

Item No. 108 - Beef Rib, Oven-Prepared, Boneless - This boneless item is prepared from 

Item No. 103. The loin end shall be exposed by a cut that follows the natural curvature of the 

12th rib mark and that exposes the M. spinalis dorsi not extending more than half the length of 

the M. longissimus dorsi. On the chuck end, the M. longissimus dorsi shall be at least twice as 

large as the complexus. Seven rib marks shall be present. The short plate shall be removed 

by a straight cut that is ventral to, but not more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus 

dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck end ventral to, but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 

cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. All bones, cartilages, related M. intercostales interni, and 

backstrap shall be removed. The rib shall be netted or tied when specified.

Item No. 109 - Beef Rib, Roast-Ready - This item is prepared as described in Item No. 103 

except that the short plate shall be removed by a straight cut that is ventral to, but not more than 

3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck end 

ventral to, but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. The chine 

bone shall be removed such that the lean is exposed between the ribs and the feather 

bone/vertebrae junctures, leaving the feather bones attached. The blade bone and related 

cartilage, backstrap, M. latissimus dorsi, M. infraspinatus, M. subscapularis, M. rhomboideus, 

and M. trapezius shall be removed. The exterior fat covering (that covered the M. latissimus 

dorsi and M. trapezius) shall not exceed 1.0 inch (25 mm) in depth at any point. The fat cover 

may be separated to accommodate removal of the backstrap and returned to its original 

position. The fat cover shall be trimmed even with the short plate side and shall not have holes 

larger than 2.0 square inches (12.9 sq cm). The rib shall be netted or tied when specified.

Item No. 109A - Beef Rib, Roast-Ready, Special - This item is as described in Item No. 109 

except that feather bones are removed. The exterior fat covering (that covered the M.

latissimus dorsi, M. trapezius, M. longissimus dorsi, and M. spinalis dorsi) shall be separated to 

facilitate trimming of the underlying fat. The underlying fat covering the M. longissimus dorsi

and M. spinalis dorsi shall be trimmed to a uniform thickness for the entire seamed surface. 

The exterior fat covering shall be returned and positioned so that it extends from the edge of the 

rib bones where the feather bones were, toward the edges of the rib bones at the short plate 

side. Fat cover extending beyond the short plate edges of the ribs shall be removed. The fat 
35

cover shall not exceed 1.0 inch (25 mm) in thickness at any point and shall not have holes larger 

than 2.0 square inches (12.9 sq cm).

Item No. 109B - Beef Rib, Blade Meat - This item consists of portions of those muscles that are 

immediately below (M. subscapularis and M. rhomboideus) and above (M. latissimus dorsi, M.

infraspinatus, and M. trapezius) the blade bone and related cartilage of the primal rib. The lean 

surfaces shall be trimmed practically free of fat. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. 

This item is often referred to as “lifter meat” or “cap and wedge meat”.

Item No. 109C - Beef Rib, Roast-Ready, Cover Off - This item is prepared as described in 

Item No. 109A except that the fat cover shall be excluded.

Item No. 109D - Beef Rib, Roast-Ready, Cover Off, Short Cut (Export Style) - This item is 

as described in Item 109A except that the fat cover shall be removed and the short plate shall 

be removed by a straight cut which is ventral to, but not more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the 

M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck end ventral to, but not more than 3.0 

inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi.

Item No. 109E - Beef Rib, Ribeye Roll, Lip-On, Bone In (Export Style) - This item is as 

described in Item 109D except that the short plate shall be removed by a straight cut which is 

ventral to, but not more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from the M. longissimus dorsi. The PSO’s for 

short plate removal are as follows: 

Option No. Description

1 1.0 in. (25 mm) x 1.0 in. (25 mm)

2 0 in. x 0 in. (product name shall omit reference to 

"lip-on")

3 Other

Item No. 110 - Beef Rib, Roast-Ready, Boneless - This item is as described in Item No. 108 

except that the M. latissimus dorsi, M. infraspinatus, M. subscapularis, M. rhomboideus, and M.

trapezius, shall be removed. The exterior fat covering which covered the M. latissimus dorsi

and M. trapezius shall be left intact. Fat cover extending beyond the short plate edge shall be 

removed. The roast shall be netted or tied. Purchaser may specify lip length (short plate) 

removal.

Item No. 111 - Beef Rib, Spencer Roll - This item is as described in Item No. 108 except that 

the muscles (M. latissimus dorsi and M. trapezius) and fat cover overlying the blade pocket shall 

be removed. The short plate shall be removed by a straight cut that is ventral to, but not more 

than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the loin end to a point on the chuck 

end ventral to, but not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. 

Item No. 112 - Beef Rib, Ribeye Roll - The ribeye roll includes the M. longissimus dorsi, M.

spinalis dorsi, M. complexus, and M. multifidus dorsi muscles as described in Item No. 108. 

The "lip" (M. serratus dorsalis and M. longissimus costarum muscles and related intermuscular 

fat) on the short plate side shall be removed at the natural seam immediately ventral to the M.

longissimus dorsi. This item shall be practically free of surface fat and M. intercostales interni. 

All other muscles, bones, cartilages, backstrap and the exterior fat cover shall be removed.
36

Item No. 112A - Beef Rib, Ribeye Roll, Lip-On - This item is the same as Item No. 112 except 

that the "lip" (M. serratus dorsalis and M. longissimus costarum and related intermuscular fat) 

remains attached on the short plate side and shall be prepared by a straight cut which is ventral 

to, but not more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi.

Item No. 112C - Beef Rib, Ribeye (IM) - This item shall consist of the M. longissimus dorsi

from any rib eye roll. The M. complexus and M. spinalis dorsi shall be removed by cutting 

through the natural seams.

Item No. 112D - Beef Rib, Ribeye Cap (IM), - This item shall consist of the M. spinalis 

dorsi/multifidus dorsi removed from any rib eye roll by cutting through the natural seams. 

Option 

No. Description

1 M. Complexus muscle included

Item No. 113 - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut - This item is the portion of the forequarter after 

removal of the rib, short plate, foreshank, and brisket. The rib end of the chuck shall be 

prepared by a straight cut between the 5th and 6th ribs. The brisket and foreshank shall be 

removed by a straight cut which is at an approximate right angle to the rib end. Evidence of the 

cartilaginous juncture of the 1st rib and the sternum shall be present on the brisket side. The 

thymus gland and heart fat shall be closely removed.

Item No. 113A - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Divided - This item is as described in Item No. 113 

except the chuck is separated into the blade portion and the arm portion. The separation shall 

be made by a cut parallel with the brisket side and ventral to, but not more than 5.0 inches (12.5 

cm) or less than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end.

Item No. 113B - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, Divided - This item is as described in 

Item No. 113A except the neck is removed from the blade portion by a straight cut, 

approximately parallel to the rib end, leaving no more than two cervical vertebrae on the blade 

portion.

Item No. 113C - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, 2 Piece, Semi Boneless - This item 

shall consist of the blade portion of Item No. 113B and the arm roast as described in Item No. 

114E. A blade portion and an arm roast shall be individually packaged and placed into the 

same container.

Item No. 114 - Beef Chuck, Shoulder (Clod) - The shoulder (clod) is the large muscle system 

which lies dorsal and posterior to the elbow joint, ventral and posterior to the ridge of the 

scapula (blade bone), and is anterior to the 6th rib. The Mm. cutaneous trunci/cutaneous

omobrachialis (shoulder rose) shall be removed when the underlying fat exceeds the surface fat 

thickness specified. The presence of the M. trapezius, M. cutaneous trunci, M. teres major, and 

the minor muscles over the humerus are optional, however, the M. teres major is generally 

excluded unless otherwise specified. The tendons on the elbow end shall be trimmed to be 

even with the lean. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. 

Item No. 114A - Beef Chuck, Shoulder Roast - This item is as described in Item No. 114 

except that the shoulder shall be trimmed so that it is not less than 1.0 inch (25 mm) thick at any 

point, except within 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) of the juncture of the M. trapezius and M. latissimus dorsi. 

In this instance, the underlying fat must be trimmed to comply with the surface fat thickness 
37

requirements. When smaller roast are specified, the thick (arm) end of the shoulder shall be 

separated from the thin (blade) end and if necessary, subsequent cuts shall be made at right 

angles to the blade side splitting the arm end into approximate equal portions. The blade end 

shall be split lengthwise into approximately equal portions, the ends shall be reversed, the 

boned surfaces placed together, and if necessary, a subsequent cut(s) shall be made at a right 

angle to the length of the blade portion into approximate equal portions. All roasts shall be 

netted or tied. 

Item No. 114B - Beef Chuck, Shoulder Roast, Special - This item is as described in Item No. 

114A except that the whole Shoulder shall be split lengthwise, the ends shall be reversed so 

that the boned surfaces are placed together to produce a uniformly thick roast. The roasts 

shall be held together by netting or tying. When smaller roasts are specified, the roast shall be 

divided by a straight cut(s) at a right angle to the length of the shoulder into approximate equal 

portions. 

Item No. 114C - Beef Chuck, Shoulder (Clod), Trimmed - This item is as described in Item 

No. 114 except that the Mm. cutaneous trunci/cutaneous omobrachialis (shoulder rose), M.

latissimus dorsi, the optional minor muscles (M. trapezius, M. teres major, and muscles over the 

humerus) shall be removed. To facilitate packaging, the M. infraspinatus may be separated, 

packaged, and included within the same shipping container. 

Item No. 114D - Beef Chuck, Shoulder (Clod), Top Blade - This item is derived from Item No. 

114 and shall consist of the M. infraspinatus, untrimmed.

Option No. Description

1

Purchaser may request that this item be further trimmed 

to remove the internal connective tissue (shoulder 

tendon). To remove the tissue or tendon it must be 

completely exposed by a butterfly cut prior to its removal. 

Purchaser may also request that this item then be

separated into two pieces after completely removing the 

shoulder tendon. After removal of the shoulder tendon, 

this item is often referred to as the “Flat Iron”.

Item No. 114E - Beef Chuck, Shoulder (Clod), Arm Roast - This item is derived from Item 

No. 114 and shall consist of the large muscle system of the thick end of the Shoulder (M. triceps 

brachii long head, M. triceps brachii lateral head and may consist of the M. triceps brachii

medial head and M. tensor fascia antibrachii). This item is commonly referred to as the “Clod 

Heart or Shoulder Center”

Item No. 114F – Beef Chuck, Shoulder, Tender (IM) – This item shall consist of the M. teres 

major derived from the medial surface of the shoulder (outside shoulder). It shall be removed 

from the M. latissimus dorsi and M. triceps brachii group by cutting through the natural seams. 

This item is sometimes referred as a Beef Shoulder, Petite Tender.

Option No. Description

1

PSO 1- Purchaser may request this item be trimmed 

to FLO 6, Peeled/Denuded, Surface membrane 

removed.
38

Item No. 114G – Beef Chuck, Shoulder, Arm, Center Cut (IM) – This items is derived from 

Item No. 114E and shall consist of the M. triceps brachii long head muscle. 

Item No. 115 - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Boneless - This boneless item is prepared from any 

chuck item with the brisket and foreshank removed. The full shoulder shall be separated (but 

included) as described in Item No. 114 and may be separated prior to cutting the brisket side. 

On the rib end, the M. longissimus dorsi shall be twice as large as the M. complexus. No fewer 

than 5 rib marks shall be present. The brisket side and rib end shall be straight cuts forming an 

approximate right angle. On the brisket side, the M. pectoralis profundi shall extend to the 3rd 

rib mark but not past the 5th rib mark. If specified, the blade portion shall be separated from 

the arm portion (after separation of the Shoulder) by a straight cut, approximately perpendicular 

with the rib end, which is ventral to, but not more than 5.0 inches (12.5 cm) or less than 3.0 

inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, 

prescapular lymph gland, heart fat and thymus gland shall be removed. 

Item No. 115A - Beef Chuck, Blade Portion, Boneless - This item is as described in Item 

Nos. 115 or 126 except that the arm portion and shoulder shall be excluded.

Item No. 115B - Beef Chuck, Arm-Out, Boneless - This item is as described in Item Nos. 115 

or 126 except that the arm portion shall be excluded.

Item No. 115C - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Neck-Off, Boneless - This item is as described in 

Item No. 115 except that the neck shall be removed from the blade portion by a straight cut, 

approximately parallel to the rib end, exposing a cross section of the M. supraspinatus.

Item No. 115D – Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Pectoral Meat (IM) – This item consist of the M.

pectoralis profundi that remains within the square-cut chuck after the removal of the brisket. It 

is removed from the chuck by cutting through the natural seams. 

Item No. 116 - Beef Chuck, Square-Cut, Clod-Out, Boneless - This item is prepared as 

described in Item No. 115 except that the shoulder clod shall be excluded. 

Item No. 116A - Beef Chuck, Chuck Roll - This boneless item consists of the large muscle 

system of the chuck which lies under the blade bone and contains the M. longissimus dorsi, M.

rhomboideus, M. spinalis dorsi, M. complexus, M. multifidus dorsi, M. serratus ventralis, M.

subscapularis, and M. splenius. The rib end shall be made by a straight cut exposing the M.

longissimus dorsi to be at least twice as large as the M. complexus and forms an approximate 

right angle with the length of the chuck roll. The neck shall be removed by a straight cut which 

is approximately parallel with the rib end and is anterior to, but not more than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) 

from, the M. serratus ventralis. The arm portion shall be removed by a straight cut that is at an 

approximate right angle to the rib end and is, not more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm), ventral from the 

M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end and not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from the M.

complexus at the neck end. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, M. trapezius, M. supraspinatus, 

M. intercostales interni (rib fingers), and prescapular lymph gland shall be removed. When 

smaller roasts are specified, the chuck roll shall be divided by cutting through the meat 

perpendicular to the length of the chuck roll into approximately equal portions. This item shall 

be netted or tied when specified. The PSO’s are as follows: 

Option No. Description
39

1

Arm removed by a straight cut not exceeding 1.0 inch (25 mm) 

from the M. longissimus dorsi on the rib end and 1.0 inch (25 

mm) from the M. complexus on the neck end.

2 Arm removed by straight cut immediately ventral to M.

longissimus dorsi and M. complexus.

3 The M. subscapularis shall be removed.

4

The "hump meat" (dorsal portion of the M. rhomboideus) shall 

be removed so that the dorsal edge is a straight cut parallel to 

the arm (ventral) edge.

Item No. 116B - Beef Chuck, Chuck Tender (IM) - This item consists of the M. supraspinatus

which lies dorsal to the medial ridge of the blade bone. The chuck tender shall be separated 

from the other muscles through the natural seams. 

Option No. Description

1

PSO 1- The heavy connective tissue on the thick end of the 

chuck tender shall be exposed and removed by a butterfly cut 

leaving a score that is no more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) into the 

lean.

Item No. 116C - Beef Chuck, Chuck Roll, Untrimmed - This boneless item is as described in 

Item No. 116A except that the neck is not removed and the M. longus coli (rope) may remain if 

it is firmly attached. However, when present, the M. longus coli shall not extend past the first 

rib mark and shall be trimmed so no portion extends more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from the 

point where it is attached. The arm side shall be made by a straight cut that is at an 

approximate right angle to the rib end and is, not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm), ventral from 

the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end. 

Item No. 116D - Beef Chuck, Chuck Eye Roll - This item is the muscle group from Item No. 

116A that consists of the M. longissimus dorsi, M. spinalis dorsi, M. multifidus dorsi, M.

complexus, and minor muscles immediately ventral to the M. longissimus dorsi. The chuck 

eye roll shall be removed from the underblade roll by cutting through the natural seams and 

shall be practically free of surface fat.

Option No. Description

1

The purchaser may specify to have the portion of the chuck 

eye roll anterior to the M. longissimus dorsi excluded. This 

remaining portion of the chuck eye roll is sometimes referred to 

as a “Beef Chuck, Delmonico Roast”.

Item No. 116E - Beef Chuck, Under Blade Roast - This item is derived from Item No. 116A 

after removal of the chuck eye roll and shall consist of the M. serratus ventralis, M. rhomboideus

and M. splenius. The dorsal and ventral edges shall be straight cuts which are approximately 

parallel with each other, removing the ‘hump meat’ (dorsal portion of the M. rhomboideus).
40

Item No. 116F – Beef Chuck, Under Blade, Flat Cut (IM) – This item is derived from Item No. 

116E and shall consist of the M. splenius. The M. splenius is separated from the M. serratus 

ventralis and M. rhomboideus by cutting through the natural seams. 

Item No. 116G – Beef Chuck, Under Blade, Center Cut (IM) – This item shall consists of the 

M. serratus ventralis in its entirety from the Item No. 116A or 116E. This item is sometimes 

referred to as ‘Denver Cut’.

Option No. Description

1

The item may consist of any portion of the item 116G. 

When the portion consists of the M. serratus ventralis that is 

associated with the removal of the ventral edge of the Chuck 

Roll to comply with PSO #1 of IMPS Item No. 116A, it is 

commonly referred to as the “Edge Roast” or “Chuck Flap”.

Item No. 116H – Beef Chuck, Chuck Eye (IM) – This item shall consist of the M. complexus

that is derived from the Chuck Eye Roll. 

Item No. 116I – Beef Chuck, Neck Roast – This item is derived from the anterior end of the 

untrimmed chuck roll. It is removed as described in Item No. 116A.

Item No. 116K – Beef Chuck Roll, 3-Way – This item shall consist of the Chuck Eye Roll (Item 

No. 116D), M. serratus ventralis and M. splenius from the Under Blade (Item No. 116E). The 

M. serratus ventralis (Item No. 116G ) and M. splenius (Item No. 116F) shall be separated from 

each other and the M. rhomboideus by cutting through the natural seams. The 3 pieces shall 

be individually packaged and placed into the same container. 

Item No. 117 - Beef Foreshank - The foreshank shall be removed from the square-cut chuck 

by a straight cut exposing a cross section of the humerus. The brisket shall be removed by a 

cut through the natural seam. 

Item No. 118 - Beef Brisket - This item includes the anterior end of the sternum bones, M.

pectoralis profundi, and the M. pectoralis superficialis (web muscle). The brisket is separated 

from the foreshank as specified in Item No. 117. The arm and the short plate sides shall be 

straight cuts which form an approximate right angle. Evidence of the cartilaginous juncture of 

the 1st rib and the sternum and the cross section of 4 rib bones shall be present. The heart fat 

shall be closely removed. 

Item No. 119 - Beef Brisket, Deckle-On, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 118. 

The arm and the short plate sides shall be straight cuts forming an approximate right angle. The 

M. pectoralis profundi shall not completely extend to the dorsal edge of the short plate side. All 

bones and cartilages shall be removed.

Item No. 120 - Beef Brisket, Deckle-Off, Boneless - This item is as described in Item No. 119 

except that the deckle (hard fat and M. intercostales interni on the inside surface) shall be 

removed at the natural seam exposing the lean surface of the M. pectoralis profundi. The hard 

fat along the sternum edge shall be trimmed level with the boned surface. The inside lean 

surface shall be trimmed practically free of fat.

Item No. 120A - Beef Brisket, Flat Cut, Boneless (IM) - This item may be prepared from any 
41

IMPS boneless brisket item and shall consist only of the M. pectoralis profundi. All surfaces 

shall be trimmed practically free of fat and the item shall be no less than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) thick at 

any point.

Item No. 120B - Beef Brisket, Point Cut, Boneless (IM) - This item may be prepared from any 

IMPS boneless brisket item and shall consist only of the M. pectoralis superficialis (web 

muscle). All surfaces shall be trimmed practically free of fat and shall be no less than 1⁄2-inch 

(13 mm) thick any point.

Item No. 120C - Beef Brisket, 2 Piece, Boneless - This item shall consist of Item No. 120A 

and Item No. 120B packaged together.

Item No. 121 - Beef Plate, Short Plate - This item is that portion of the forequarter immediately 

ventral to Item No. 103. The flank end shall follow the natural curvature of the 12th rib. The 

M. pectoralis profundi shall not completely extend to the dorsal edge of the brisket side. Seven 

ribs shall be present. The rib side shall be a straight cut which exposes the M. serratus 

ventralis to be continuous for at least 2 ribs. The diaphragm may be removed. However, if 

present it shall be firmly attached and the membranous portion shall be trimmed close to the 

lean. 

Item No. 121A - Beef Plate, Short Plate, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 121. 

Seven rib marks shall be present. The rib side shall be a straight cut which exposes the M.

serratus ventralis to be continuous for at least 2 rib marks. All bones and cartilage shall be 

removed.

Item No. 121B - Beef Plate, Short Plate, Trimmed, Boneless- This item is as described in 

Item No. 121A except the diaphragm, serous membrane (peritoneum) and the M. transversus 

abdominis shall be removed.

Item No. 121C - Beef Plate, Outside Skirt (IM) - This item is removed from the short plate. 

The outside skirt shall consist of the diaphragm which may have the serous membrane 

(peritoneum) attached. The membrane portion must be trimmed close to the lean.

Item No. 121D - Beef Plate, Inside Skirt (IM) - This item shall consist of the M. transversus 

abdominis only. The serous membrane (peritoneum) shall be removed. The lean surface 

shall be trimmed practically free of fat. 

Item No. 121E - Beef Plate, Outside Skirt (IM), Skinned - This item is as described in Item 

No. 121C except that the serous membrane (peritoneum) shall be removed from both sides. 

The ends shall be squared off.

Item No. 121F - Beef Plate, Short Plate, Short Ribs Removed - This item is as described in 

Item No. 121 except that the short rib portion is removed as described in Item No. 123. No 

more than 5 short ribs may be removed from the anterior end by a straight cut approximately 

parallel with the ventral side without exposing the M. pectoralis profundi. 

Item No. 121G - Beef Plate, Short Plate, Short Ribs Removed, Boneless - This item is as 

described in Item No. 121A except the short rib portion is removed as described in Item No. 

123. No more than 5 short ribs may be removed from the anterior end by a straight cut 

approximately parallel with the ventral side without exposing the M. pectoralis profundi. All 

bones and cartilage shall be removed.

Item No. 122 - Beef Plate, Full - This item shall consist of the short plate and brisket sections, 

intact. The flank end shall follow the natural curvature of the 12th rib. The chuck/rib side shall 

be a straight cut exposing the M. serratus ventralis to be continuous for at least 2 ribs. 
42

Evidence of the cartilaginous juncture of the 1st rib and the sternum shall be present. The 

heart fat shall be closely removed. The diaphragm may be removed. However, if present it 

shall be firmly attached and the membranous portion shall be trimmed close to the lean. 

Item No. 122A - Beef Plate, Full, Boneless - The plate shall consist of the boneless short 

plate and brisket sections, intact. The flank end shall follow the natural curvature of the 12th rib 

mark. The chuck/rib side shall be a straight cut exposing the M. serratus ventralis to be 

continuous for at least 2 rib marks. The posterior end of M. pectoralis profundi shall extend to 

the 3rd rib mark but not past the 5th rib mark. All bones, cartilages, diaphragm, serous 

membrane (peritoneum), and heart fat shall be removed.

Item No. 123 - Beef Short Ribs - This item consists of the rib section from any rib and/or plate 

item and shall contain at least 2 but no more than 5 ribs (ribs 6 through 10). The dorsal side 

shall be at an approximate right angle to the rib bones and the M. latissimus dorsi shall be 

continuous across the cut surface. The ventral side shall be a straight cut which is 

approximately parallel to the dorsal side and does not contain any costal cartilages. The M.

cutaneous trunci, diaphragm, and serous membrane (peritoneum) shall be removed. The 

surface fat shall be trimmed NTE 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) at any point. The purchaser shall specify the 

number of ribs and the width (distance between the dorsal and ventral sides) of the rib sections. 

Item No. 123A - Beef Short Plate, Short Ribs, Trimmed - This item is as described in Item 

No. 123 except that it shall be derived from the 6th, 7th, and 8th ribs of the short plate, the M.

serratus ventralis shall be continuous across the cut surface for at least 2 ribs on both the dorsal 

and ventral sides, and the exterior fat cover and the M. latissimus dorsi shall be removed. 

Item No. 123B - Beef Rib, Short Ribs, Trimmed - This item is as described in Item No. 123 

except that it shall be derived from the 6th, 7th, and 8th ribs of the primal rib, the M. serratus 

ventralis shall be exposed and continuous for at least 2 ribs on one side only, and the exterior 

fat cover and the M. latissimus dorsi shall be removed. This item shall be trimmed practically 

free of surface fat. 

Item No. 123C - Beef Rib, Short Ribs - This item is as described in Item No. 123 except that it 

shall be derived from the 6th, 7th, 8th ribs of the primal rib. The M. serratus ventralis shall be 

exposed and continuous for at least 2 ribs on one side only.

Item No. 123D - Beef Short Ribs, Boneless (IM) - This item shall consist of the M. serratus 

ventralis muscle from any IMPS short rib item. The ribs and M. intercostales interni shall be 

removed.

Item No. 124 - Beef Rib, Back Ribs - This item is the intact portion of the seven ribs and M. 

intercostales interni from Item Nos. 109 or 109A. The chine bone (thoracic vertebrae) and 

feather bones shall be removed exposing the sawed ends of the rib bones. Unless otherwise 

specified, back ribs shall be no less than 6.0 inches (15.0 cm) or no more than 8.0 inches (20.0 

cm) wide at any point. 

Item No. 124A – Beef Rib, Back Rib, Rib Fingers – This item will consist of the M. 

intercostales interni that are removed from between the back ribs. Purchaser may 

specify that the costal cartilage be removed.

Item No. 124B – Beef Plate, Rib Fingers – This item will consist of the M. intercostales interni

that are removed from between the rib bones from a short plate. 
43

Item No. 125 - Beef Chuck, Armbone - This item is as described in Item No. 113 except that 

the foreshank is left intact. The brisket is removed by a cut through the natural seam from the 

foreshank. The thymus gland and heart fat shall be closely removed.

Item No. 126 - Beef Chuck, Armbone, Boneless - This boneless item is prepared from Item 

No. 125 and shall be separated into 3 portions (blade, arm, and shoulder) with the foreshank 

present. The M. longissimus dorsi shall be twice as large as the M. complexus on the rib end. 

No fewer than 5 rib marks shall be present. The brisket side and rib end shall be straight cuts 

forming an approximate right angle. The brisket side shall expose the M. pectoralis profundi

extending posterior to the 3rd rib mark but not past the 5th rib mark. The brisket is removed 

from the foreshank by a cut through the natural seam. The shoulder shall be separated as 

described in Item No. 114. After the shoulder is removed, the blade portion shall be separated 

from the arm portion by a straight cut, approximately perpendicular with the rib end, which is 

ventral to, but not more than 5.0 inches (12.5 cm) or less than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from, the M.

longissimus dorsi at the rib end. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, prescapular lymph gland, 

heart fat, thymus gland, and the tendinous end of the shank evidencing less than 75 percent 

lean on a cross-sectional cut shall be removed.

Item No. 126A - Beef Chuck, Armbone, Clod-Out, Boneless - This item is as described in 

Item No. 126 except the shoulder is excluded. 

Item No. 127 - Beef Chuck, Cross-Cut - This item consists of the intact square-cut chuck, 

foreshank, and brisket and shall contain 5 ribs. The rib end of the chuck shall be a straight cut 

between the 5th and 6th ribs. The thymus gland and heart fat shall be closely removed.

Item No. 128 - Beef Chuck, Cross-Cut, Boneless - This item consists of the intact boneless 

foreshank, brisket, and square-cut chuck with the full clod separated but included. The rib end 

of the chuck shall be a straight cut which exposes the M. longissimus dorsi to be at least twice 

as large as the M. complexus. No fewer than 5 rib marks shall be present. The shoulder shall 

be separated as described in Item No. 114. Unless otherwise specified, the chuck shall be 

separated into two portions by a straight cut, approximately parallel with the dorsal side, which 

is ventral to, but not more than 5.0 inches (12.5 cm) or less than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from, the M.

longissimus dorsi at the rib end. The remainder of the chuck may be separated into 2 portions 

by a straight cut, approximately parallel to the dorsal side, ventral to, but not more than 3.0 

inches (7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. In addition, the shank meat and brisket may be 

separated when specified by the purchaser. Unless otherwise specified, one of each portion 

shall be individually wrapped and packed in the same container. All bones, cartilages, 

backstrap, prescapular lymph gland, and the tendinous end of the shank exposing less than 75 

percent lean on a cross-sectional cut shall be removed. 

Item No. 130 - Beef Chuck, Short Ribs - This item may be derived from the arm portion of any 

IMPS chuck item and shall include ribs 2 through 5, M. intercostales interni, and M. serratus 

ventralis. 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. 

Item No. 130A - Beef Chuck, Short Ribs, Boneless (IM) - This item is prepared from Item No. 

130 and shall consist of the M. serratus ventralis from the arm portion of the chuck. The ribs 

and M. intercostales interni shall be removed. This item shall have at least four rib marks 

extending to the dorsal and ventral edge of the M. serratus ventralis. This item shall be 

trimmed practically free of fat and shall be no less than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) thick at any point.

Item No. 132 - Beef Triangle - This item consists of the forequarter minus the rib. The rib 

shall be removed by a straight cut between the 5th and 6th ribs and separated from the plate by 
44

a straight cut exposing the cross section of 7 ribs. The flank end shall follow the natural 

curvature of the remaining portion of the 12th rib. The diaphragm may be removed. 

However, if present it shall be firmly attached and the membranous portion shall be trimmed 

close to the lean. The thymus gland and heart fat shall be removed. 

Item No. 133 - Beef Triangle, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 132. The rib 

shall be removed by a straight cut between the 5th and 6th rib marks exposing the M.

longissimus dorsi to be twice as large as the M. complexus and separated from the plate by a 

straight cut which exposes the cross section of 7 rib marks. No portions of the M. longissimus 

dorsi or M. pectoralis profundi shall be exposed and the M. serratus ventralis shall be 

continuous for at least 2 rib marks across the cut surface. The flank end shall follow the natural 

curvature of the remaining portion of the 12th rib mark. The diaphragm may be removed. 

However, if present it shall be firmly attached and the membranous portion shall be trimmed 

close to the lean. The shoulder shall be separated as described in Item No. 114 and included. 

All bones, cartilages, serous membrane (peritoneum), prescapular lymph gland, thymus gland, 

backstrap, and the tendinous end of the shank exposing less than 75 percent lean on a 

cross-sectional cut shall be removed.

Item No. 134 - Beef Bones - This item consists of any one or combination of shank, femur, or 

humerus bones sawed into sections of lengths as specified by the purchaser. Marrow shall be 

exposed on at least one end of each sawed section.

Item No. 135 - Diced Beef - Diced beef shall be prepared from any portion of the carcass which 

yields product that meets the end item requirements. Unless otherwise specified, shank, 

detached Mm. cutaneous, and heel meat shall be excluded. When heel meat is allowed by the 

purchaser, the M. superficial digital flexor shall be removed from the M. gastrocnemius through 

the natural seams. To facilitate dicing, meat may be frozen and/or tempered, one time only. 

The meat shall be either hand diced or mechanically diced (grinding is not permitted). Dices 

shall be free of bones, cartilages, heavy connective tissue, and lymph glands. Unless 

otherwise specified, at least 75 percent, by weight, of the resulting dices shall be of a size 

equivalent to not less than a 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) cube or not more than a 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) cube 

and no individual surface shall be more than 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in length. The surface and/or 

seam fat shall not exceed 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) thickness at any point.

Item No. 135A - Beef for Stewing - This item is as described in Item No. 135 except (unless 

otherwise specified) at least 85 percent, by weight, of the resulting dices shall be of a size 

equivalent to not less than a 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) cube or not more than a 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) cube 

and no individual surface shall be more than 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in length. The fat thickness of 

the surface and/or seam fat shall not exceed 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) at any point. 

Item No. 135B - Beef for Kabobs - This item is as described in Item No. 135 except (unless 

otherwise specified) at least 90 percent, by weight, of the resulting dices shall be of a size 

equivalent to not less than a 1.0 inch (25 mm) cube or not more than a 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) cube 

and no individual surface shall be more than 2.5 inches (6.3 cm) in length. The fat thickness of 

the surface and/or seam fat shall not exceed 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) at any point.

Item No. 135C- Beef for Stir Fry - Beef for stir-fry shall be prepared from any portion of the 

carcass exclusive of shank, detached cutaneous muscles, and heel meat unless otherwise 

specified. When heel meat is allowed by the purchaser, the M. superficial digital flexor shall be 

separated and excluded from the M. gastronemius through the natural seams. The meat may 

be hand sliced or mechanically sliced (grinding is not permitted) to yield pieces that are 

approximately 1⁄2-inch (12 mm) in width, 1 inch (25 mm) thickness, and 3 inches (75 mm) in 
45

length. No individual surface shall be more than 4 inches in length. Slices shall be free of 

bone, cartilage, heavy connective tissue, and lymph glands. Surface and seam fat shall not 

exceed 1⁄4 -inch (7mm) at any point.

Option No. Description

1

Beef for stir-fry shall be made from raw materials that comply 

with fat limitation option 6, peeled, denuded, surface 

membrane removed. 

2

The item shall be made exclusively from Item No. 121D, Inside 

Skirt and/or Item No. 193, Flank Steak. All membranous 

tissue shall be removed. 

Item No. 136 - Ground Beef - Unless otherwise specified, ground beef may be derived from 

boneless meat which has been frozen and stockpiled. The purchaser may specify the 

maximum amount of frozen boneless meat that can be mixed with fresh-chilled meat prior to 

final grinding. All objectionable materials listed in the material requirements shall be removed. 

When specified by the purchaser, “finely textured beef”, low temperature rendered beef that is 

processed from boneless beef trimmings, is allowed to be combined with boneless beef 

meeting the above material requirements provided it does not exceed 20 percent by weight of 

the combined finished product. When finely textured beef is used, the following criteria must 

be met: 

Criteria Description

Red Color

The producer of finely textured beef shall assure that the 

product has a discernible redness in color. The finely 

textured beef shall maintain the same redness in color until 

the time of blending and grinding to minimize the effect of 

the color to the finished ground beef.

Fat Content Does not exceed 10% fat.

Grinding equipment shall have sharp knives and plates and be equipped with a bone/collector 

system. Objectionable material removed during final grinding may not be reintroduced into the 

finished product. The boneless meat shall be ground at least once through a plate having 

holes not larger than 1.0 inch (25 mm) in diameter, unless otherwise specified. Alternatively, 

boneless beef may be chopped or machine cut by any method provided the texture and 

appearance of the product after final grinding is typical of ground beef prepared by grinding 

only. Beef shall be thoroughly blended at least once prior to final grinding. However, the 

ground beef shall not be mixed after final grinding. Unless otherwise specified, final grinding 

shall be through a plate having holes 1⁄8-inch (3 mm) in diameter. 
46

The purchaser may specify the use of a bone collector/extruder system on the final grind 

(

3

/16-inch (5 mm) or smaller plate) to remove objectionable materials (bone, cartilage, 

connective tissue, etc.). For certification purposes, the purchaser may waive examination for 

trimming defects provided the use of a bone collector/extruder system is specified. 

When coarse ground beef is specified, boneless meat shall be ground once through a plate 

having holes no larger than 1.0 inch (25 mm) and no smaller than 5⁄8-inch (16 mm) in diameter. 

Alternatively, the boneless meat may be ground twice, with the smallest plate having holes no 

larger than 1.0 inch (25 mm) and no smaller than 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) in diameter. Coarse ground 

meat may be blended after grinding or between grinds to assure uniformity of fat content. The 

term “coarse ground” shall appear on the product label.

Unless otherwise specified, the fat content shall be 20 percent fat. The purchaser may specify 

a different fat content provided it does not exceed 30 percent. 

Item No. 136A – Ground Beef and Soy Protein Product Patty Mix- This item is as described 

in Item No. 136 except that soy protein product (SPP) shall be added. Source (e.g., soy), 

Type1/ (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 percent protein. To 

determine the maximum amount of water to be mixed with the dry VPP to yield 18 percent 

protein in the mixture, the following equation shall be used: 

Equation

[(Percent Protein of SPP on “As-Is” Basis / 18) – 1] = 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 

percent. If not specified, the maximum percent of hydrated protein product in the combined 

finished product shall not exceed 20 percent. 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 percent: (2) the product may be tempered, but not thawed, prior to use; and (3) no 

additional water may be added.

Type Protein (%) As-Is Basis

Flour 50.0

Concentrate 65.0

Isolate 85.0

Item No. 136C - Beef Patty Mix, NTE 10% Fat - This item is as described in Item No. 136 

except that the fat content shall not exceed 10 percent. Additional ingredients may be added 
47

to enhance product acceptability. Such ingredients shall not exceed 10 percent of the 

combined finished product. The purchaser may specify the ingredients that will be allowed.

Item No. 136D – Pure Beef - This item is as described in Item No. 136 except that the finely 

textured beef that is labeled as partially defatted chopped beef or that does not comply with the 

criteria listed in Item No. 136 may be used NTE 20 percent by weight of the combined finished 

product.

1/Any one or combination of the following types of SPP may be used. When a combination of 

these are produced by the SPP manufacturer, the amount of each type and minimum protein 

content (as is basis) of the mixture shall be declared on the manufacturer's label.

Item No. 137 - Ground Beef, Special - This item is as described in Item No. 136 except that 

not less than 50 percent, by weight, of any combination of boneless primal rounds, loins, ribs, or 

square-cut chucks or subprimals derived from the primal portions (e.g., chuck rolls, shoulders, 

tips, bottom sirloin butts) of the carcass shall be used. The remaining portion, NTE 50 percent 

by weight, may be composed of trimmings or cuts from any portion of the carcass. The 

purchaser may specify a grade requirement for the "primal" portion and/or the remaining 

portion. Formulation requirements shall be determined on a boneless basis. Primal or 

subprimal cuts which have more than a minor amount of lean removed are not eligible for the 

primal portion. 

The purchaser may specify one of the following styles if ground beef derived from the primal 

portion as desired. Product produced in accordance with the following styles shall be labeled 

accordingly.

Style Description

1 Ground Beef, Special - As specified above.

2

Ground Beef, Chuck - Ground beef chuck may be derived 

from any portion of any IMPS boneless chuck item. 

However, shank meat shall not exceed natural proportions 

(6.0 percent). Additionally, when the purchaser specifies fat 

content to be 20 percent or less or when the producer's label 

declares that the fat content of packaged ground beef chuck 

product is 20 percent or less, then the producer may be 

allowed to use foreshanks up to 50 percent of the formulation 

as a source for lean provided the shanks have been 

mechanically desinewed.

3

Ground Beef, Round - Ground beef round may be derived 

from any portion of any IMPS boneless round item. 

However, shank meat shall not exceed natural proportions 

(6.0 percent). Additionally, when the purchaser specifies fat 

content to be 15 percent or less or when the producer's label 

declares that the fat content of packaged ground beef round 

product is 15 percent or less, then the producer may be 

allowed to use hindshanks up to 50 percent of the formulation 

as a source for lean provided the shanks have been 

mechanically desinewed.
48

4

Ground Beef, Sirloin - Ground beef sirloin may be derived 

from any portion of any IMPS boneless sirloin item. When 

the purchaser specifies fat content to be 15 percent or less or 

when the producer's label declares that the fat content of 

packaged ground beef sirloin product is 15 percent or less, 

then the producer may be allowed to use any portion of any 

IMPS tip item up to 50 percent of the formulation as a lean 

source.

Item No. 137A – Ground Beef and Soy Protein Product, Special - This item is as described 

in Item No. 137 except that soy protein product shall be added as described in Item No. 136A.

Item No. 138 - Beef Trimmings - Beef trimmings may be prepared from any portion of the 

carcass which yields product that meets end item requirements. All objectionable materials 

listed in the material requirements shall be removed. Ground product is not permitted. 

Unless, otherwise specified by the purchaser, trimmings derived from automatic deboning 

machines and advance lean retrieval systems shall be excluded. The purchaser may specify 

that the trimmings meet the IMPS microbial requirements for ground beef as specified within the 

IMPS QAP. 

Item No. 139 - Beef, Special Trim, Boneless - Beef 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. When heel meat is allowed by 

the purchaser, the M. superficial digital flexor shall be removed from the M. gastrocnemius

through the natural seams. Unless otherwise specified, trimmings shall consist of pieces 

which have a surface area on one side which is no less than 8.0 square inches (51.6 sq. cm) 

and are no less than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) thick at any point. All bones, cartilages, heavy 

connective tissue, detached Mm. cutaneous, and lymph glands shall be removed. Trimmings 

shall be practically free of surface and seam fat.

Item No. 140 – Beef, Hanging Tender (IM) – This item is a soft, grainy textured, elliptical 

shaped muscle that is attached to the diaphragm and the juncture of the lumbar/thoracic 

vertebrae. 

Option No. Description

1

The heavy connective tissue within the center shall be 

exposed and removed by a butterfly cut. The resulting product 

is sometimes referred to as “pillars” or “hanger”.

Item No. 155 - Beef Hindquarter - The hindquarter is the posterior portion of the side after 

severance from the forequarter as described in Item No. 100. 

Item No. 155A - Beef Hindquarter, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 155 and 

shall be boneless. The rib end shall be exposed by a cut that follows the natural curvature of 

the 12th rib mark and exposes the M. spinalis dorsi not extending more than half the length of 

the M. longissimus dorsi. The tenderloin shall be excluded unless otherwise specified by the 

purchaser. All bones, cartilages, prefemoral and popliteal lymph glands, hanging tender, 

kidney, and kidney knob shall be removed. The tendinous ends of the shank and round tip
49

shall be cut to evidence no less than 75 percent lean. The purchaser shall specify if this item 

shall remain intact or be separated into cuts. 

Item No. 157 - Beef Hindshank - This item is prepared from Item No. 158. The hindshank 

shall be removed by a cut through the stifle joint that follows the natural seam between the 

shank and the heel (M. gastrocnemius and M. super digital flexor). All hock bones and the 

gambrel cord shall be removed.

Item No. 158 - Beef Round, Primal - This item consists of the round (top and bottom round, 

portion of the tip, rump, heel, and shank). The loin end shall be exposed by a straight cut 

which is anterior to but not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) from the posterior end of the 

protuberance of the femur pocket. The M. tensor fasciae latae shall not extend completely 

around the outside of the sirloin tip (knuckle). No more than two vertebra shall remain on the 

round. The M. obliquus abdominis internus (flap muscle) shall be removed. This item is 

sometimes referred to as the “Beef Hip”.

Item No. 158A - Beef Round, Diamond-Cut - This item consists of the round (top, bottom, 

heel, rump, and shank) and the full sirloin tip (knuckle). The loin shall be removed by two 

straight cuts which expose the ball of the femur (the protuberance may not be severed), and 

leaves the full sirloin Tip (knuckle) attached. The first cut shall start at a point passing through 

the 4th sacral vertebra and extend to the ball of the femur. The second cut shall extend from 

the ball of the femur to a point on the ventral edge exposing the tensor fasciae latae extending 

completely around the outside of the sirloin tip (knuckle). The M. obliquus abdominis internus

(flap muscle) shall be removed. The full sirloin tip (knuckle) may be separated from the round. 

If separated, it shall be separated as described in Item No. 167, and individually packaged and 

packed into the same container. 

Item No. 158B – Beef Round, NY Style – This item is as described within Item No. 158A, 

except that the full tip (sirloin tip) shall be excluded by cutting through the natural seams so that 

the cut consists of the top, bottom, heel, rump, and shank. When the sirloin tip is removed by 

cutting through the natural seams and left attached to the bottom sirloin prior to separation of 

the round from the sirloin, then the sirloin tip may be referred to as beef loin, bottom sirloin,

sirloin tip. 

Item No. 159 - Beef Round, Primal, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 158. 

The M. tensor fasciae latae shall not extend completely around the outside of the sirloin tip

(knuckle). The top (inside) round shall include the M. semimembranosus, M. sartorius, M. 

adductor, M. gracilis, and M. pectineus and shall be separated from the sirloin tip through the 

natural seam. All bones, cartilages, M. obliquus abdominis internus, the sacrociatic ligament, 

the lean and fat that overlaid the sacrociatic ligament, the lean and fat (oyster) that overlaid the 

aitch bone, the thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis membrane, and popliteal and prefemoral

lymph glands shall be removed. The tendinous ends of the shank and sirloin tip shall be cut to 

evidence no less than 75 percent lean. The sirloin tip (knuckle) may be separated. If 

separated, it shall be separated as described in Item No. 167, and individually packaged and 

packed into the same container.

Item No. 160 - Beef Round, Shank-Off, Semi-Boneless - This item is as prepared in Item No. 

158 except that the aitch bone, tail bones and the shank shall be removed. The shank is 

removed at the stifle joint by a cut through the natural seam between the heel and hindshank. 

The M. tensor fasciae latae shall not extend completely around the outside of the sirloin tip. 

The aitch bone, oyster (aitch bone overlying fat and lean), tail bones, sacrociatic ligament, the 

lean and fat that overlaid the ligament, the thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis membrane, 
50

and exposed lymph glands shall be removed. The sirloin tip (knuckle) may be separated. If 

separated, it shall be separated as described in Item No. 167, and individually packaged and 

packed into the same container.

Item No. 160A - Beef Round, Diamond Cut, Shank Off, Semi-Boneless - This item is 

prepared from Item No. 158A. The tail bones (sacral vertebrae), aitch bone and shank shall be 

removed. The shank is removed at the stifle joint by a cut through the natural seam between 

the heel and hindshank. On the loin end, the M. tensor fasciae latae shall extend completely 

around the outside of the sirloin tip and the M. biceps femoris shall be equal to or smaller than 

the M. gluteus medius. The sirloin tip may be separated. If separated, the sirloin tip shall be 

separated as described in Item No. 167, and individually packaged and packed into the same 

container. The aitch bone (and overlying fat and lean (oyster)), tail bones, sacrociatic

ligament, the lean and fat that overlaid the ligament, the thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis

membrane, and exposed lymph glands shall be removed.

Item No. 160B - Beef Round, Heel and Shank-Off, Semi-Boneless - This item is described in 

Item No. 160 except that the heel is removed by cutting through the natural seams.

Item No. 161 - Beef Round, Shank Off, Boneless - This item is as prepared in Item No. 159 

except that the shank is removed as described in Item No. 160. Unless otherwise specified, 

the popliteal lymph gland shall be removed.

Item No. 161A - Beef Round, Diamond Cut, Shank Off, Boneless - This item is as described 

as in Item No. 160A except that the femur bone and related cartilage shall be removed. Unless 

otherwise specified, the popliteal lymph gland shall be removed.

Item No. 161B - Beef Round, Heel and Shank Off, Without Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Boneless 

- This item is as described in Item No. 161 except that the heel and sirloin tip shall be removed 

by cutting through natural seams.

Item No. 163 - Beef Round, Shank Off, 3-Way, Boneless - This item shall consist of the 

following IMPS Items that are individually packaged and packed into the same container: 

Item No. Product Name

167 Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle)

169 Beef Round, Top (Inside)

170 Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck)

Item No. 163A - Round, Shank Off, 3-Way, Untrimmed, Boneless - This item shall consist of 

the following IMPS Items that are individually packaged and packed into the same container:

Item No. Product Name

167 Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle)

168 Beef Round, Top (Inside), Untrimmed

171 Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), 

Untrimmed
51

Item No. 164 - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Off - This item is prepared as described in Item 

No. 158 except that the shank and rump are removed. The shank is removed as described in 

Item No. 160. The rump is removed from the loin end by a straight cut that exposes a cross 

section of the M. semitendinosus, a cross-section of the femur bone at a point which is posterior 

to the ball of the femur, and does not sever the medial portion of the M. rectus femoris but may 

sever the M. vastus lateralis and/or main portion of the M. rectus femoris. The M. tensor 

fasciae latae shall not extend completely around the outside of the sirloin tip. The aitch bone 

(and overlying fat and lean (oyster)), tail bones, sacrociatic ligament, the lean and fat that 

overlaid the ligament, exposed lymph glands, and the thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis

membrane shall be removed. When specified by the purchaser, the sirloin tip may be 

separated. If separated, the sirloin tip shall be separated as described in Item No. 167, and 

individually packaged and packed into the same container.

Item No. 165 - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Off, Boneless - This item is prepared as 

described in Item No. 164 except that all bones, cartilage, and lymph glands (including the 

popliteal) shall be removed. 

Item No. 165A - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Off, Boneless, Special - This item is as 

described in Item No. 164 except that the rump shall be removed without severing any portion of 

the sirloin tip (the M. vastus lateralis nor the M. rectus femoris). All bones, cartilage, and lymph 

glands (including the popliteal) shall be removed. 

Item No. 165B - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Off, Boneless, Special - This item is as 

described in Item No. 165A except that it shall be netted or tied.

Item No. 166 - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Off, Boneless - This item is as described in 

Item No. 165 except that it shall be netted or tied.

Item No. 166A - Beef Round, Rump Partially Removed, Shank Off - This item is as prepared 

in Item No. 164 except the rump shall be partially removed anterior to the top or inside round 

exposing the M. semitendinosus, the ball and the protuberance of the femur (the ball may not be 

severed). The aitch bone (and overlying fat and lean (oyster)), tail bones, sacrociatic ligament 

(and overlying lean and fat), exposed lymph glands, and the thick opaque portion of the M. 

gracilis membrane are removed along with the rump.

Item No. 166B - Beef Round, Rump and Shank Partially Off, Handle On - This item is as 

described in Item No. 164 except that the rump is removed by a straight cut which exposes the 

M. semitendinosus, and a cross section of the ball of the femur. This cut does not sever the 

medial portion of the M. rectus femoris but may sever the M. vastus lateralis and/or main portion 

of the M. rectus femoris. The shank and heel meat shall be removed from the shank bone by a 

straight cut perpendicular to the ventral edge of the round that is posterior to, but no more than 

2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the stifle joint leaving no more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) of the shank 

bone (tibia) exposed and firmly intact. The exposed shank bone shall be trimmed practically 

free of lean. This item is commonly referred to as “Baron of Beef”.

Item No. 167 - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) - This boneless item is prepared from Item 

No. 158 and consists of the posterior portion of the full sirloin tip (M. vastus intermedius, M. 

vastus lateralis, M. vastus medialis, and M. rectus femoris). The M. tensor fasciae latae, 

though not completely extending around the outside of the sirloin tip (knuckle) shall be 

exposed on the loin end. A portion of the M. sartorius may remain, if firmly attached. The loin 

end shall expose the M. tensor fasciae latae not completely extending around the outside of the 

sirloin tip. The sirloin tip is separated from the top (inside) round and bottom (gooseneck) 
52

round between the natural seams. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. The tendinous 

end shall be removed exposing no less than 75 percent lean. When specified, the sirloin tip 

shall be split lengthwise into approximate equal portions. 

Item No. 167A - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip, (Knuckle) Peeled - This boneless item is as 

prepared in Item No. 167 except that the M. tensor fasciae latae muscle, fat, and "skin" tissue 

are removed. When smaller roast are specified, the sirloin tip shall be split lengthwise into 

approximate equal portions.

Option No. Description

1 The purchaser may specify that the M. vastus medialis

and intermedius be removed.

Item No. 167B - Beef Round, Full Sirloin Tip - This boneless item is prepared from Item No. 

158A or 158B and consists of the intact sirloin tip portion of the round and the bottom sirloin (the 

M. rectus femoris, M. vastus medialis, M. vastus lateralis, M. vastus intermedius) and M. tensor 

fasciae latae. The sirloin tip is separated from the top (inside) round, bottom (gooseneck) 

round, and the top sirloin between the natural seams. All bones, cartilages, and the M. 

obliquus abdominis internus shall be removed. The tendinous end shall be removed exposing 

no less than 75 percent lean. When smaller roast are specified, the sirloin tip shall be split 

lengthwise into approximate equal portions. When the sirloin tip is removed by cutting through 

the natural seams and left attached to the bottom sirloin prior to separation of the round from the 

sirloin, then the sirloin tip may be referred to as Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin, Sirloin Tip.

Option No. Description

1 The purchaser may specify that the M. vastus medialis

and intermedius be removed.

Item No. 167C - Beef Round, Sirloin (Full) Tip, Trimmed - This item is as described in Item 

No. 167B except that the M. tensor fascia latae, and skin tissue are removed. This item shall 

be trimmed practically free of fat. When smaller roast are specified, the sirloin tip shall be split 

lengthwise into approximate equal portions.

Item No. 167D - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Peeled, 2-Piece - This item is as 

described in Item Nos. 167A or 167C except that the M. vastus lateralis and the M. rectus 

femoris are separated by cutting through the seam. The M. sartorius, M. vastus medialis, and 

M. vastus intermedialis shall be removed by cutting through the natural seams.

Item No. 167E – Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Center Roast (IM) – This item shall 

consist of the M. rectus femoris only from any IMPS Round Sirloin Tip item. It is separated 

from the muscles of the round as described within IMPS Item 167D.

Item No. 167F – Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Side Roast (IM) – This item consists of 

the M. vastus lateralis from any IMPS Round Sirloin tip item. It is separated from the muscles 

of the sirloin tip as described within IMPS Item 167D.
53

Item No. 168 - Beef Round, Top (Inside), Untrimmed - This boneless item consists of the M. 

semimembranosus, M. sartorius, M. adductor, M. gracilis, and M. pectineus and is separated 

from the bottom round and sirloin tip through the natural seams. The M. iliopsoas may remain 

if firmly attached. All bones, cartilages, and exposed lymph glands shall be removed.

Item No. 169 - Beef Round, Top (Inside) - This boneless item is as described in Item No. 168 

except that the thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis membrane shall be removed. When 

smaller roast are specified, the top round shall be split by no more than 2 lengthwise cuts, and 

subsequent cuts, if necessary, shall be made girthwise separating the item into approximate 

equal portions. 

Item No. 169A - Beef Round, Top (Inside), Cap Off - This item is as described in Item No. 169 

except that the M. gracilis and the loose (soft) side (M. pectineus and M. sartorius) shall be 

removed by cutting through the natural seams. This item is often referred to as COSMO 

(cap-off, side muscle off).

Option No. Description

1 The M. adductor shall be removed and excluded by 

cutting through the natural seams. 

Item No. 169B - Beef Round, Top (Inside), Cap (IM) - This item shall consist of the M. gracilis 

from the top round that is removed as described in Item No. 169A.

Item No. 169C – Beef Round, Top (Inside), Front Side Muscle (IM) – This item shall consist 

of the M. pectineus that is separated from the ventral (loose or soft side) side (adjacent to the 

sirloin tip) of the top round by cutting through the natural seams.

Item No. 169D – Beef Round, Top (Inside), Soft Side Removed – This item is as described 

within Item 169, except that the loose (soft) side (M. pectineus and M. sartorius) shall be 

removed by cutting through the natural seams. 

Item No. 169E – Beef Round, Top (Inside), One Muscle (IM) – This item consists of the M. 

adductor removed from the M. semimembranosus by cutting through the natural seam. 

Item No. 170 - Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck) - This boneless item consists of the M. 

semitendinosus, M. biceps femoris, and heel and may contain the M. gluteus medius, M. 

gluteus accessorius, and M. gluteus profundus. The M. semitendinosus muscle shall not be 

exposed on the loin end. The top round, sirloin tip, and shank are removed between the 

natural seams. All bones, cartilages, sacrociatic ligament, the lean and fat that overlaid the 

sacrociatic ligament, popliteal lymph gland, and the heavy opaque connective tissue separating 

the bottom round from the sirloin tip shall be removed.

Item No. 170A - Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), Heel Out - This item is as prepared in 

Item No. 170 except that the heel is removed. The heel is removed along the natural seam 

adjacent to the M. semitendinosus and M. biceps femoris. When specified, the bottom round 

shall be split into approximate equal portions by cutting at an approximate right angle to the 

length of the item. 

Item No. 171 - Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), Untrimmed - This item is as described in 

Item No. 170 except that the popliteal lymph gland, and the opaque heavy connective tissue 
54

(silver skin) along the ventral side may remain. All bones and cartilages shall be removed.

Item No. 171A - Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck), Untrimmed, Heel Out - This item is as 

described in Item No. 171 except that the heel (M. superficial digital flexor and M. 

gastrocnemius) is removed along the natural seam adjacent to the M. semitendinosus and M. 

biceps femoris. 

Item No. 171B - Beef Round, Outside Round (Flat)- This boneless item shall consist of the M. 

biceps femoris, and may contain the M. gluteus medius, M. gluteus profundus and M. gluteus 

accessorius. The loin end shall expose the M. biceps femoris equal to or larger than the M. 

gluteus medius (when present). The outside round is separated from the top round, Sirloin tip, 

heel, and M. semitendinosus (eye of round) between the natural seams. All bones, cartilages, 

sacrociatic ligament and the lean and fat that overlaid the ligament, the opaque heavy 

connective tissue (silver skin) along the ventral side, and the popliteal lymph gland shall be 

removed.

Option No. Description

1 After being trimmed to meet FLO 6 Peeled/Denuded, Surface 

Membrane Removed requirements, item may be split into two

parts as in items 171D and 171E

Item No. 171C - Beef Round, Eye of Round (IM) - This boneless item consists of the M. 

semitendinosus and shall not be severed on either end. The eye is separated from the top and 

outside rounds and heel between the natural seams. 

Item No. 171D – Beef Round, Outside Round, Side Muscle Removed (IM) – This item is as 

described in IMPS 171B, except that the side muscle (M. biceps femoris ischiatic head) is 

removed by cutting through the natural seam. 

Item No. 171E – Beef Round, Outside Round, Side Roast, (IM) – This item shall consist of 

the M. biceps femoris ischiatic head, which is found on the dorsal portion of IMPS Item No. 

171B. 

Item No. 171F – Beef Round, Outside Round, Heel – This item consists of the heel portion of 

the bottom round (gooseneck). It is separated as described in IMPS No. 170A. 

Item No. 171G – Beef Round, Outside Round, Rump (IM) – This item shall consist of the 

anterior portion of the M. biceps femoris of IMPS 171B. The M. gluteus medius, M. gluteus 

profundis, and M. gluteus accessorius shall be excluded. The rump shall be removed from the 

outside round by a cut that is at or immediately anterior to the M. biceps femoris ischiatic head. 

Item No. 172 - Beef Loin, Full Loin, Trimmed - This item is that portion of hindquarter 

remaining after removal of Item No. 158 and shall consist of the short loin, sirloin and the 13th 

rib. The hanging tender, kidney and kidney knob, and excess internal fat shall be removed. 

The rib end shall follow the natural curvature of the 13th rib. The flank shall be removed by a 

Option No. Description

1 The M. superficial digital flexor shall be removed
55

straight cut ventral to, but not more than 6.0 inches (15.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at 

the rib end to a point on the round end which is ventral, to but not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) 

from, the M. tensor fasciae latae. The fat covering the lumbar, sacral, and tenderloin regions 

shall be trimmed NTE 1.0 inch (25 mm) in depth at any point. Fat over the rib (on the inside 

surface) shall be removed. 

Item No. 172A - Beef Loin, Full Loin, Diamond Cut, Trimmed- This item is as described in 

Item No. 172 except that the round shall be removed by two straight cuts. The first cut shall 

start at a point passing through the 4th sacral vertebra and extend to the ball of the femur. The 

second cut shall extend from the ball of the femur to a point on the ventral edge exposing the M. 

tensor fasciae latae extending completely around the outside of the sirloin tip (if present).

Item No. 173 - Beef Loin, Short Loin - This item consists of the anterior section of the loin and 

contains the 13th rib. The rib end shall follow the natural curvature of the 13th rib. The sirloin 

shall be removed by a straight cut anterior to the hip cartilage, forming an approximate right 

angle with the length of the short loin that exposes the M. gluteus medius. The flank shall be 

removed by a straight cut ventral to but not more than 6.0 inches (15.0 cm) from the M. 

longissimus dorsi at the rib end to a point on the sirloin end that is ventral to, but not more than 

10.0 inches (25.4 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. The fat covering the lumbar, sacral, and 

tenderloin regions shall be trimmed NTE 1.0 inch (25 mm) in depth at any point. Fat over the 

rib (on the inside surface) and the hanging tender shall be removed. 

Item No. 174 - Beef Loin, Short Loin, Short-Cut - This item is as prepared in Item No. 173 

except that the flank shall be removed by a straight cut ventral, to but not more than 3.0 inches 

(7.5 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end to a point on the sirloin end ventral to, but 

not more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. 

PSO’s for flank removal by a straight cut are as follows. (Rib end x Sirloin end) 

Option No. Description

1 1.0 in. (25 mm) x 1.0 in. (25 mm)

2 1.0 in. (25 mm) x 0 in.

3 Other

Item No. 175 - Beef Loin, Strip Loin, Bone In - This item is as prepared in Item No. 173 

except that the tenderloin and the protruding edge of the chine bones are removed. The chine 

bones shall be removed along the dorsal edge of the spinal grove without scoring the M. 

longissimus dorsi (when exposed). The flank shall be removed by a straight cut ventral, to but 

not more than 6.0 inches (15.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end to a point on the 

sirloin end ventral to, but not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi. 

The PSO’s for flank removal by a straight cut are as follows. (Rib end x Sirloin end)

Option No. Description
56

1 4 in. (10.0 cm) x 3 in. (7.5 cm)

2 3 in. (7.5 cm) x 2 in. (5.0 cm)

3 1 in. (25 mm) x 1 in.

4 1 x 0

5 0 x 0

6 Other

Item No. 176 – Beef Loin, Steak Tail – This item may contain any combination of the 

M. obliquus abdominis externus and M. obliquus abdominis internus that are found 

ventral to the M. longissimus dorsi on the hind quarter. Unless otherwise specified by 

the purchaser, Fat Limitation Option 4 (FLO 4), Practically Free of Fat (75% 

lean/seamed surface exposed), shall apply.

Item No. 180 - Beef Loin, Strip Loin, Boneless - This item is boneless and consist of the 

anterior section of the loin and contains the 13th rib mark. The hanging tender and tenderloin 

shall be removed. The rib end shall follow the natural curvature of the 13th rib mark. The 

sirloin end shall be anterior to the hip cartilage, forming an approximate right angle with the 

length of the short loin, and exposes the M. gluteus medius. The flank side shall be ventral to, 

but not more than 3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from the M. longissimus dorsi at the rib end to a point on 

the sirloin end ventral to, but not more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from the M. longissimus dorsi.

The PSO’s for flank removal by a straight cut are as follows. (Rib end x Sirloin end)

Option No. Description

1 2 in. (5.0 cm) x 1 in. (25 mm)

2 1 in. (25 mm) x 0 in.

3 1 in. x 1 in.

4 0 x 0

5 Other

Item No. 181 - Beef Loin, Sirloin - This item is the posterior section of the full loin. The short 

loin shall be removed by a straight cut anterior to the hip cartilage and approximately parallel 

with the round end exposing the M. gluteus medius. The round shall be removed by a straight 

cut anterior to the ball and/or protuberance of the femur. The flank shall be removed by a 

straight cut ventral to, but not more than 10.0 inches (25.4 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi on 

the short loin end to a point on the round end ventral to, but not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) 

from, the M. tensor fasciae latae. The fat covering the lumbar, sacral, and tenderloin regions 

shall be trimmed NTE 1.0 inch (25 mm) in depth at any point. 
57

Item No. 181A - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin, Bone In - This item is described in Item No. 181 

except that the bottom sirloin and butt tender are removed. The bottom sirloin shall be 

removed by a straight cut along the natural seam (between the M. gluteus medius and sirloin 

tip) and continues to the outside surface leaving a portion of the M. tensor fasciae latae

attached to the top sirloin. The butt tender is excluded by separating it from the hip bone. The 

protruding points of the hip bone socket and the first sacral vertebrae shall be removed to 

facilitate handling and packaging.

Item No. 182 - Beef Loin, Sirloin Butt, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 181. 

The short loin shall be removed by a straight cut anterior to, but not more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) 

from, the posterior end of the hip pocket and is approximately parallel to the round end exposing 

the M. gluteus medius. The round shall be removed by a straight cut exposing the M. biceps 

femoris approximately equal to or larger than the M. gluteus medius. The M. tensor fasciae 

latae shall not extend completely around the outside of the Sirloin tip. The flank shall be 

removed by a straight cut ventral to, but not more than 10.0 inches (25.4 cm) from, the M. 

longissimus dorsi on the short loin end to a point on the round end ventral to, but not more than 

1.0 inch (25 mm) from, the M. tensor fasciae latae. All bones, cartilages, tenderloin, and the 

sacrociatic ligament, and the lean and fat which overlaid the ligament shall be removed.

Item No. 183 - Beef Loin, Sirloin Butt, Trimmed, Boneless - This item is as described in Item 

No. 182 except that the M. obliquus abdominis internus and the underlying connective tissue 

shall be removed. The fat exposed by the removal of the M. obliquus abdominis internus shall 

be exempt from any specified fat depth requirements.

Item No. 184 - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item No. 

182 and contains the M. gluteus medius, M. gluteus accessorius, M. gluteus profundus, and the 

M. biceps femoris. The short loin end shall be approximately parallel to the round end 

exposing the M. gluteus medius. On the round end, the M. biceps femoris shall be 

approximately equal to or larger than the M. gluteus medius. The bottom sirloin shall be 

removed by a cutting along the natural seam (between the M. rectus femoris and M. gluteus 

medius) and continues to the outside surface leaving a portion of the M. tensor fasciae latae

attached to the top sirloin butt. The butt tender is also excluded. All bones, cartilages, 

tenderloin, and the sacrociatic ligament and the lean and fat which overlaid the ligament shall 

be removed.

Item No. 184A - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Semi Center-Cut, Boneless - This item is as 

described in Item No. 184 except that the M. biceps femoris (cap) shall be removed. When

smaller roasts are specified, this item shall be split lengthwise into approximate equal portions.

Item No. 184B - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Center-Cut, Cap-Off, Boneless (IM) - This item 

is as describe in Item No. 184 except that all muscles other than the M. gluteus medius shall be 

removed. The flakes of surface fat remaining over the gluteus medius shall not exceed 1 inch 

(2.5 cm) in their dimension nor 0.125 inch in depth at any one point. When smaller roast are 

specified, this item shall be split lengthwise into approximate equal portions.

Option No. Description
58

1

When specified, the dorsal portion of the M. gluteus medius shall 

be detached, from the main portion, by cutting through the seam. 

The two pieces shall be packaged and placed within the same 

shipping container. 

Item No. 184C - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Untrimmed, Boneless - This item is as 

described in Item No. 184 except that the sacrociatic ligament may remain.

Item No. 184D - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Cap (IM) - This item shall consist of the M. 

biceps femoris which is removed from Item No. 184 by cutting through the natural seams. This 

item is sometimes referred to as the “Coulotte”.

Item No. 184E - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, 2 Piece, Boneless - This item is as described in 

Item No. 184 except that the cap muscle shall be separated from the top sirloin. The pieces

shall be trimmed to comply with specified fat thickness requirements and packaged together.

Item No. 184F – Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt, Center-Cut, Seamed, Dorsal Side, Boneless

(IM) – This item shall consist of the dorsal portion of the M. gluteus medius and shall be 

removed, from the main portion, by cutting through the seam. This cut is sometimes referred 

to as the ‘baseball cut’. 

Item No. 185 - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Boneless - This item is prepared from Item 

No. 182 and contains the M. tensor fasciae latae (tri tip); M. vastus medialis, M. vastus lateralis, 

and M. rectus femoris (ball tip); and the M. obliquus abdominis internus (flap). The short loin 

side shall be approximately parallel to the round end. The round end shall not expose the M. 

tensor fasciae latae extending completely around the outside of the sirloin tip. The top sirloin 

side shall not expose the M. gluteus medius but may expose the M. tensor fasciae latae and/or 

tip. The flank side shall be exposed by a straight cut that is not more than 4.0 inches (10.0 cm) 

in length on the short loin end to a point on the round end ventral to but not more than 1.0 inch 

(25 mm) from the M. tensor fasciae latae. All bones and cartilages shall be removed.

Item No. 185A - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Flap, Boneless (IM) - This item consists of 

the M. obliquus abdominis internus from the hindquarter and bottom sirloin butt which is 

separated from the ball tip and M. tensor fasciae latae through the natural seam. All bones, 

cartilages, and heavy connective tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 185B - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Ball Tip, Boneless - This item consists of 

the M. vastus medialis, M. vastus lateralis, and M. rectus femoris (ball tip), from the bottom 

sirloin butt and or the anterior porting of a full sirloin tip. The M. tensor fasciae latae and M. 

obliquus abdominis internus are separated from the ball tip through the natural seam. All 

bones, cartilages, and outside "skin" tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 185C - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip, Boneless (IM) - This item consists 

of the M. tensor fasciae latae from the bottom sirloin butt and is separated from the ball tip and 

M. obliquus abdominis internus through the natural seam. All bones, cartilages, and 

connective tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 185D - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip, Defatted, Boneless - This item is as 

described in Item No. 185C except that it shall be trimmed practically free of fat.
59

Item No. 186 - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Boneless, Trimmed - This item is as 

described in Item No. 185 except that the M. obliquus abdominis internus and underlying 

connective tissue are removed. 

Item No. 188 – Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Bone-in – This item is derived from a short loin and 

consists of the consists of M. psoas major and M. psoas minor, attached to the transverse 

process of the lumbar vertebra. The anterior end shall be removed so that the psoas major is no 

less than 2.5 inches (6.25 cm) in the longest dimension.

Item No. 189 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full – This item is derived from a full loin as described 

in either Item Nos. 172 or 172A. The boneless item shall consist of the M. psoas major, M. 

psoas minor, M. iliacus, and may show the presence of the M. sartorius. The M. obliquus 

abdominis internus (flap), if present, shall be trimmed level with the fat surface. The sirloin butt 

end of the tenderloin shall expose the M. psoas major, M. iliacus, and M. sartorius (when 

present). The surface fat shall be trimmed NTE 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) in depth at any point, from the 

posterior end to the exposed lymph gland and shall be tapered down to the lean at a point not 

beyond 3⁄4 of the length of the tenderloin. The tenderloin shall be trimmed free of ragged 

edges. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. A score into the tenderloin exceeding 

1⁄2-inch (13 mm) in depth is not acceptable.

Item No. 189A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side Muscle On, Defatted - This item is as 

described in Item No. 189 except that it shall be practically free of surface and wing fat (fat lying 

between the main body of the tenderloin and the M. iliacus (wing muscle). 

Item No. 189B - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side Muscle On, Partially Defatted - This item 

is as described in Item No. 189 except that it shall be practically free of surface fat. The wing 

fat may remain. 

Item No. 190 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side Muscle Off, Defatted - This item is as 

described in Item No. 189A except that the M. psoas minor (side muscle) shall be removed. 

The principal membranous tissue over the M. psoas major shall remain intact. 

Item No. 190A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side Muscle Off, Skinned - This item is as 

described in Item No. 190 except that the principal membranous tissue covering the M. psoas 

major shall be removed. 

Item No. 190B - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Full, Side Muscle Off, Center-Cut, Skinned 

(IM) - This item is as described in Item No. 190A except that the tenderloin tail (Item No. 192A) 

and butt tenderloin (Item No. 191A) shall be removed. This item is sometime referred to as a 

‘barrel’ cut. 

Item No. 191 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Butt - This item shall consist of the sirloin butt portion of 

the tenderloin. The sirloin, or butt end, shall expose the M. psoas major, M. psoas minor, M. 

iliacus, and if present, the M. sartorius. Further the obliquus abdominis internus (flap), if also 

present, shall be trimmed level with the fat surface. The anterior, or short loin, end shall be 

exposed by a straight cut that exposes the M. psoas major and the M. psoas minor no further 

along the length of the tenderloin than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) beyond the M. iliacus. The surface fat 

shall be trimmed NTE 3⁄4-inch (19 mm) in depth at any point. The large lymph gland shall be 

exposed. All bones, cartilages, and M. quadratus lumborum shall be removed. A score into 

the tenderloin exceeding 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) is not acceptable.
60

Item No. 191A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Butt, Defatted - This item is as describe in Item No. 

191 except that the surface and wing fat shall be trimmed practically free.

Item No. 191B - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Butt, Skinned - This item is as described in Item No. 

191A except that the principal membranous tissue covering the M. psoas major shall be 

removed.

Item No. 192 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin, Short - This item shall consist of the short loin portion of 

the tenderloin and shall consist of the M. psoas major and M. psoas minor. The posterior end 

shall only expose the M. psoas major and M. psoas minor. The fat shall be trimmed NTE

1⁄2-inch (13 mm) in depth at any point over the M. psoas major at the posterior end and shall be 

tapered down over the M. psoas major to the anterior end of the tenderloin. All bones, 

cartilages, and ragged edges shall be removed. A score into the tenderloin exceeding 1⁄2-inch 

(13 mm) in depth is not acceptable.

Item No. 192A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Tails - This item shall consist of the thin portion of the 

M. psoas major. The M. psoas minor may remain, if firmly attached.

Item No. 193 – Beef Flank, Flank Steak (IM) - This item consists of the M. rectus abdominis

from the flank region and is separated from the M. transversus abdominis, M. obliquus

abdominis internus, and M. obliquus abdominis externus through the natural seams. This item 

shall be practically free of fat and the membranous tissue.

Item No. 194 - Beef Chuck and Flank, Rose Meat (IM). This boneless item shall consist of 

the M. cutaneous trunci and the M. cutaneous omobrachialis muscles, an external muscle that 

is connected to the posterior deep pectoral muscle and the tendon of the M. latissimus dorsi and 

to the fascia above the stifle. It lies on the outside of the carcass and spans from the chuck to 

the flank. It is usually pulled in the fabrication area while the carcass is still hanging and before 

primal splitting. It is separated from the items 114, 121, and 123. Because of its flat, 

triangular-like shape, this item is often referred to as the “elephant ear” and “shoulder rose 

meat” because the meat has a lighter red color than most of the interior muscles of the carcass.

Option No. Description

1

Product obtained from the chuck primal(s) (M. 

cutaneous omobrachialis) shall be called “Shoulder 

Rose” meat

2 Purchaser may request that this muscle be completely 

trimmed of all fat and connective tissue
61

8.3 Portion Cut Descriptions

To be evaluated for end item requirements as in the IMPS QAP.

Item No. 1100 - Beef Cubed Steak - Cube 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 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 percent of the total area 

on either side of the steak. Individual steaks shall remain intact when suspended 1⁄2-inch (13 

mm) from the outer edge. The steaks shall be free of heavy connective tissue, bones, 

cartilages, and lymph glands. This item may also be referred to as “minute”, “delicated” or “fast 

fry” steak.

Item No. 1101 - Beef Cubed Steak, Special - This item is as described in Item No. 1100 

except the steaks shall be prepared from any combination of lean from the round, loin, rib, or 

chuck sections (excluding shank and heel meat) of the carcass. Knitting of two or more pieces 

and folding the meat when cubing is not permissible. This item may also be referred to as 

“minute”, “delicated”, or “fast fry” steak.

 

Item No. 1102 - Beef Braising Steak, Swiss - Braising steaks shall be prepared from any 

combination of lean from the round, loin, rib, or chuck 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 1⁄4-inch (6 mm) in 

thickness and the thickness at any one point shall not exceed 1⁄2-inch (13 mm). Surface fat, 

measuring 0.1 inch (2 mm) or more in thickness, shall not exceed 50 percent of the 

circumference of the steak. Individual steaks shall remain intact when suspended 1⁄2-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. 1103 - Beef Rib, Rib Steak, Bone-In - Rib steaks may be prepared from any IMPS 

bone-in rib item. The blade bone and related cartilage, feather bones, chine bones, backstrap, 

and those muscles that are immediately below (M. subscapularis and M. rhomboideus) and 

above (M. latissimus dorsi, M. infraspinatus, and M. trapezius) the blade bone and related 

cartilages shall be removed. The short ribs shall be removed at a point which is no more than 

3.0 inches (7.5 cm) from the ventral edge of the M. longissimus dorsi. 

Item No. 1103A - Beef Rib, Rib Steak, Boneless - Rib steaks shall be as described in Item 

No. 1103 except that all bones, cartilages, and M. intercostales interni shall be removed. 

Item No. 1103B – Beef Rib, Rib Steak, Frenched, Bone-In – This item is prepared as 

described in Item No. 1103 except that each steak must be cut between the ribs bones. The 

rib bone shall be completely trimmed of the M. intercostales interni (frenched) and fat so that the 

bone is exposed from the ventral edge of the M. longissimus dorsi to the end of the rib bone. 

This item is often referred to as a “Cowboy Steak”. 

 
62

Option No. Description

1

Purchaser may specify that the rib be prepared as a 

roast, but instead of being cut into steaks, it remain

intact.

2

Purchaser may request that the rib be prepared as a 

roast as in PSO 1 and then partially cut into steaks and 

the balance left as a roast.

3

Purchaser may request that the rib steaks be split into 

two steaks by a saw cut through the center of one 

bone.

4

Purchaser may request that the item be cut from an 

Item No. 103 rib with the full rib bone attached. This 

item is commonly referred to as a Tomahawk Steak.

Item No. 1112 - Beef Rib, Ribeye Roll Steak, Boneless - Ribeye roll steaks shall be prepared 

from any IMPS ribeye roll item. The lip shall be removed exposing the natural seam 

immediately ventral to the M. longissimus dorsi. This item is sometimes referred to as “tail off”.

Item No. 1112A - Beef Rib, Ribeye Steak, Lip-On, Boneless - Ribeye steaks, lip-on shall be 

prepared from Item No. 112A. The short rib side shall be exposed by a straight cut which is 

ventral to, but no more than 2.0 inches (5.0 cm) from, the M. longissimus dorsi leaving the lip 

firmly attached.

Item No. 1112B - Beef Rib, Ribeye Steak, Lip-On, Short Cut, Boneless - Ribeye steaks, 

lip-on shall be as described in Item No. 1112A except that the short rib side shall be exposed by 

a straight cut which is ventral to, but no more than 1.0 inch (25 mm) from, the M. longissimus 

dorsi.

Item No. 1112C – Beef Rib, Ribeye Steak – Ribeye steaks shall be derived from the M. 

longissimus dorsi from any ribeye roll item. When uniform thickness and portion weights are 

specified, the ribeye may be portioned by cutting several steaks starting from the anterior end 

(where the M. longissimus dorsi is smaller in diameter) and stopping at a point where the M. 

longissimus dorsi is larger and more uniform in diameter. The remainder of the M. longissimus 

dorsi shall be split by a lengthwise cut into two approximate equal in size sections and then 

sliced into steaks meeting purchaser specified thickness and weight. 

Item No. 1112D - Beef Rib, Ribeye Cap Steak - Boneless ribeye cap steaks shall be prepared 

from the Mm. spinalis dorsi/multifidus dorsi muscle from any ribeye roll item. For portioning, 

slice the ribeye cap at a right angle to the grain or direction of muscle fibers.
63

Item No. 1114D - Beef Chuck, Shoulder, Top Blade Steak (IM) - Top blade steaks shall be 

prepared from Item No. 114D.

Option No. Description

1

Top Blade Steaks shall be prepared from Item 114D 

which has been trimmed to comply with PSO #1. This 

item is often referred to as the ‘Flat Iron’. 

Item No. 1114E – Beef Chuck, Shoulder, Arm Steak, Boneless – The boneless arm steaks 

shall be prepared from Item No. 114E after the M. triceps brachii medial head has been 

removed. The steaks will be sliced across the grain of the M. triceps brachii long head. 

Option No. Description

1

Purchaser may request that this item be prepared from 

only the M. triceps brachii long head and a small portion of 

the M. triceps brachii lateral head at the thick end of the 

clod, after removal of other muscles identified in Item no. 

114E. In addition, the heavy part of the elbow tendon 

should be removed and the item should be trimmed of all 

fat and connective tissue. These steaks are commonly

referred to as “Ranch Steaks”.

Item No. 1114F - Beef Chuck, Shoulder Tender, Portioned (IM)- This item shall be 

prepared from item No. 114F, Beef Chuck, Shoulder Tender (IM), PSO 1. The individual 

steaks, sometimes referred to as “Petite Tender Medallions”, shall be prepared by a 

straight cut across the grain in accordance with the purchaser’s specification with 

respect to thickness or weight.

Item No. 1116D - Beef Chuck, Chuck Eye Roll Steak, Boneless - Chuck eye roll steaks shall 

be prepared from Item No. 116D.

Option No. Description

1

The purchaser may specify steaks to be derived from the 

portion of the chuck eye roll that has the M. longissimus dorsi

present. The M. longissimus dorsi must be present on at 

least one side of the steak. This item is sometimes referred 

to as “Beef Chuck, Delmonico Steak”.
64

2

Steaks made from the chuck eye roll may be by cut into two 

pieces by slicing the steaks with cuts that start at the ventral 

side and ends at a point on dorsal side (where the feather 

bones were). Alternatively, the chuck eye roll may be cut 

into two approximate equal sized portions by making a 

lengthwise cut which starts at the ventral side to a point on the 

dorsal edge (where the feather bones were), then sliced into 

portions. This item is often referred to as a ‘boneless country

style ribs’.

Item No. 1116G – Beef Chuck, Under Blade, Center Cut Steak – This item shall be prepared 

from any portion of the serratus ventralis muscle as described within Item No. 116G and made 

into steaks by slicing across the grain. This item is sometimes referred to as ‘Denver Cut’.

Item No. 1116H – Beef Chuck, Chuck Eye Steak – This item shall be prepared from the M. 

complexus as described within Item No. 116H. 

Item No. 1121D - Beef Plate, Inside Skirt Steak , Boneless (IM)- The steaks shall be 

prepared from Item No. 121D.

Item No. 1121E - Beef Plate, Outside Skirt Steak, Skinned (IM) - The steaks shall be 

prepared from Item No. 121E. 

Item No. 1123 - Beef Short Ribs, Bone-In - This item may be prepared from any IMPS beef

chuck, rib, or plate short rib item. This item shall consist of the ribs, M. intercostales interni and 

M. serratus ventralis intact. The M. serratus ventralis shall be continuous across both the 

dorsal and ventral side of the specified number of ribs. The ribs shall be cut flanken style (e.g., 

cutting at a right angle to the rib bones) to specified thickness. The purchaser shall specify 

both the width of the cut and the number of ribs in each portion.

Purchasers also have the option to request that the bone in short ribs be prepared from product 

described in Item Nos. 123A, 123B, or 123C.

Purchasers who desire a boneless short rib should specify that the item be prepared from Item 

No. 123D or 130A.

Item No. 1130 Beef Chuck, Short Rib, Bone In - This item may be prepared from a chuck 

short rib as described in Item No. 130. The bone in short rib shall consist of the ribs, intercostal 

meat, and the intact M. serratus ventralis muscle. The M. 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.

Purchasers who desire a boneless chuck short rib should specify that the item be prepared from 

Item No. 130A.

The purchaser may specify the following options for Item Nos. 1136, 1136A, 1136B, 1136C, 
65

1137, and 1137A.

Option No. Description

1 Perforations (to facilitate heat transfer during cooking)

2 Shape (oval, round, square, etc.)

3 Style (plate fill method, etc.)

Item No. 1136 - Ground Beef Patties - The patties shall be prepared from Item No. 136. 

Patties shall be frozen unless specified fresh.

Item No. 1136A – Ground Beef and Soy Protein Product Patties - The patties shall be 

prepared from Item No. 136A. Patties shall be frozen unless specified fresh.

Item No. 1136C - Beef Patties, NTE 10% Fat- The patties shall be prepared from Item No. 

136C.

Item No. 1136D – Pure Beef Patties – The patties shall be prepared from Item No. 136D.

Item No. 1137 - Ground Beef Patties, Special - The patties shall be prepared from Item No. 

137. 

Item No. 1137A - Beef and Soy Protein Product Patties, Special - The patties shall be 

prepared from Item No. 137A.

Item No. 1138 - Beef Steaks, Flaked and Formed, Frozen - The steaks shall be prepared 

from boneless beef that complies with the material requirements of Item No. 136 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. 136. The purchaser shall specify shape and weight of steaks. When specified, the flaked 

and formed steaks may be cubed (the term “cubed” may be included in the product label). 

When specified the steaks shall be breaded and labeled appropriately. The breading and its 

application shall be in accordance with FSIS Regulations.

Item No. 1138A - Beef Sandwich Steaks, Flaked, Chopped, Formed and Wafer Sliced, 

Frozen - The steaks shall be prepared from boneless beef that complies with the material 

requirements of Item No. 136. 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. 136. 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 x 7.5 inches (12.0 x 19.1 cm). The purchaser shall specify weight and/or 

number of slices per steak. 

Item No. 1138B - Beef Steaks, Sliced and Formed, Frozen - The steak shall be prepared 
66

from boneless beef that complies with Item No. 139. 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 the product label. The purchaser shall specify 

weight, shape, and/or thickness of steaks.

Item No. 1139 – Beef Slices, Frozen – This item shall be derived from IMPS IM cut or cuts 

specified by the purchaser. 

Item No. 1140 – Beef Hanging Tender Steak - This item shall be prepared from Item 

No. 140 - Hanging Tender (IM) by straight cuts across the grain along the length of the 

hanging tender to the specifications of the purchaser for size. The steaks shall be 

trimmed along the edges and top and bottom sides so that the steaks are free of any 

heavy connective tissue or loose fat. The steak is sometimes referred to as a “hanger 

steak”, “onglet steak” or “pillar”.

Item No. 1150 - Beef Top Side Steak, Boneless - This item may be derived from any IMPS rib 

or loin item and shall consist of the M. longissimus dorsi and M. multifidus dorsi and may contain 

the M. gluteus medius and M. spinalis dorsi. All bones, cartilages, backstrap, heavy 

connective tissue and fat overlying the heavy connective tissue on the dorsal edge of the steaks 

shall be removed. The boneless rib/loin may be separated by a lengthwise cut into sections to 

accommodate the cutting of specified portion size (thickness and/or weight) steaks. Unless 

otherwise specified, this item shall be trimmed practically free of surface fat.

Item No. 1167 - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak - The steaks shall be prepared from 

any IMPS Tip Item. The Tip may be separated lengthwise into sections to accommodate the 

cutting of specified portion size steaks.

Item No. 1167A - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak, Peeled - The steaks shall be 

prepared from any IMPS Tip Item. The M. tensor fasciae latae, fat, and "skin" tissue shall not 

be present. The Tip may be separated lengthwise into sections to accommodate the cutting of 

specified portion size steaks.

Option No. Description

1 The purchaser may specify that the Mm. vastus medialis

and intermedius be removed.

Item No. 1167D - Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Steak, Peeled, Special - This item shall 

be prepared from any IMPS Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Item. The M. tensor fasciae latae, M. vastus 

medialis, M. vastus intermedialis, and M. sartorius shall be removed by cutting through the 

seams. Fat, "skin" tissue, and heavy opaque connective tissue shall be removed. The 

remaining muscles (M. vastus lateralis and M. rectus femoris) shall be separated by cutting 

through the natural seam and made into specified portion size or thickness by slicing the pieces 

at a right angle to the grain (muscle fibers).

Item No. 1167E – Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Center Steak (IM) – This item shall 

consist of the M. rectus femoris only from any IMPS Round Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Item. 

Item No. 1167F – Beef Round, Sirloin Tip (Knuckle), Side Steak (IM) – This item consists of 

the M. vastus lateralis from any IMPS Round Sirloin Tip (Knuckle) Item. It is sliced 
67

perpendicular to the grain. 

Item No. 1169 - Beef Round, Top (Inside) Round Steak – The steaks shall be prepared from 

any IMPS top (inside) round item. The thick opaque portion of the M. gracilis membrane shall 

be removed. The top round may be separated lengthwise into sections to accommodate the 

cutting of specified portion size steaks.

Item No. 1169A – Beef Round, Top (Inside) Cap Off, Round Steak – This item shall be 

prepared from Item No. 169A. The cap off inside round may be separated lengthwise into 

sections to accommodate the cutting of specified portion size steaks.

Option No. Description

1 The purchaser may specify the removal of the M. adductor. 

Item No. 1169C – Beef Round Top (Inside) Round, Front Side Steak – This item shall be 

prepared from the M. pectineus from the soft side of the inside round. 

Item No. 1170A - Beef Round, Bottom (Gooseneck) Round Steak - The steaks shall be 

prepared from Item No. 170A. The bottom round may be separated lengthwise into sections to 

accommodate the cutting of specified portion size steaks.

Item No. 1171D – Beef Round, Outside Round Steak (IM) – This item is derived from the M. 

biceps femoris (with the side muscle (M. biceps femoris ischiatic head) removed) as described 

in IMPS 171D. The steaks shall be made by slicing perpendicular to the grain of the muscles. 

This item is sometimes referred to as a “western griller steak”.

Item No. 1171G – Beef Outside Round, Rump Steak (IM) – This item shall consist of the 

anterior portion of the M. biceps femoris of IMPS 171B. The M. gluteus medius, M. gluteus 

profundis, and M. gluteus accessorius shall be excluded. The rump shall be removed from the 

outside round by a cut that is at or immediately anterior to the M. biceps femoris, ischiatic head. 

The purchaser may specify the following tail length options for Item Nos. 1173, 1174, 1179, 

1179A, 1180, and 1180A. If not specified, the tail length will not exceed 1.0 inch (25 mm) from 

the M. longissimus dorsi.

Option No. Description

1 4.0 inch (10.0 cm)

2 3.0 inch (7.5 cm)

3 2.0 inch (5.0 cm)

4 1.0 inch (25 mm)

5 No tail (trimmed to meet specified fat trim)
68

6 Other

Item No. 1173 - Beef Loin, Porterhouse Steak - The steaks shall be prepared from any IMPS 

short loin item. The maximum width of the tenderloin shall be at least 1.25 inches (3.2 cm) 

when measured parallel to the length of the back bone. 

Item No. 1174 - Beef Loin, T- Bone Steak - The steaks shall be prepared from any IMPS short 

loin item. The maximum width of the tenderloin shall be at least 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) when 

measured parallel to the length of the back bone. 

Item No. 1179 - Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Bone-In - The steaks shall be prepared from any 

IMPS bone-in strip loin or short loin item. The protruding edge of the chine bone shall be 

removed so that no portion of the spinal groove is present. 

Item No. 1179A - Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Center-Cut, Bone-In - This item is prepared 

from any IMPS bone-in strip loin or short loin item that has the posterior portion of the strip loin 

removed at or anterior to the M. gluteus medius. The M. gluteus medius, if present, may 

appear only on one side of the steak.

Item No. 1180 - Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Boneless - The steaks shall be prepared from 

any IMPS boneless strip loin or short loin item. All bones and cartilages shall be removed. 

Item No. 1180A - Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Center-Cut, Boneless -This item is prepared 

from any boneless strip loin or short loin item that has the posterior portion of the strip loin 

removed at or anterior to the M. gluteus medius. The M. gluteus medius, if present, may 

appear only on one side of the steak.

Item No. 1180B - Beef Loin, Strip Loin Steak, Split, Boneless - This item is prepared 

from any boneless strip loin that has the tail, and heavy connective tissue overlying the M. 

longissimus dorsi muscle, removed, and is then split by a lengthwise cut into two approximate 

equal in size sections. This item is sometimes referred to as “strip steak filet” or “club cut”.

 

Option No. Description

1 The M. multifidus dorsi shall be removed.

2 The posterior end of the strip loin shall be removed so 

that the M. gluteus medius is not present.

Item No. 1184 - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Boneless - The steaks shall be prepared 

from Item No. 184. Prior to slicing, the heavy connective tissue closely associated with the 

protuberance of the femur shall be removed by a straight cut (faced) so that the appearance of 

the M. gluteus medius is oval in shape. The boneless top sirloin butt may be separated into 

sections reasonably parallel to the backbone line to accommodate the cutting of specified 

portion size steaks. The sections shall be cut into steaks reasonably parallel to the cut surface 

of the round end.
69

Item No. 1184A - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Semi Center-Cut, Boneless - The 

steaks shall be as described in Item No. 1184 except that the M. biceps femoris shall be 

removed. The M. longissimus dorsi may or may not be present.

Item No. 1184B - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Center-Cut, Boneless (IM) - The steaks 

shall be as described in Item No. 1184 except that all muscles other than the M. gluteus medius

shall be removed. 

Item No. 1184D - Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Cap Steak, Boneless (IM) - This item is sometimes 

referred to as a "Coulotte Steak.” The steak may be produced from any IMPS sirloin item and 

shall consist of the M. biceps femoris. The M. biceps femoris shall be removed from the sirloin 

by cutting through the natural seams and made into specified portion size or thickness by slicing 

the pieces at a right angle to the grain (muscle fibers).

Item No. 1184F – Beef Loin, Top Sirloin Butt Steak, Center-Cut, Seamed, Dorsal Side, 

Boneless (IM) – This item shall consist of steaks made from the dorsal portion of the M. gluteus 

medius as described in Item No. 184F. This cut is sometimes referred to as the ‘baseball cut’.

Item No. 1185A - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Flap Steak (IM) - The steaks shall be 

prepared from the flap portion (M. obliquus abdominis internus) of the bottom sirloin butt. The 

triangle (M. tensor fasciae latae) and the ball tip (M. rectus femoris and M. vastus lateralis) shall 

not be present. The steaks shall be made by cuts which are at approximate right angles to the 

grain. All bones, cartilages, and connective tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 1185B - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Ball Tip Steak - The steaks shall be 

prepared from the ventral portion (M. rectus femoris and M. vastus lateralis) of the bottom sirloin 

butt. The M. tensor fasciae latae and M. obliquus abdominis internus shall not be present. 

The steaks shall be made by cuts which are at approximate right angles to the grain. All 

bones, cartilages, and outside "skin" tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 1185C - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip Steak (IM) - The steaks shall be 

prepared from the triangle portion (M. tensor fasciae latae) of the bottom sirloin butt. The 

steaks shall be made by cuts which are at approximate right angles to the grain. All bones, 

cartilages, and connective tissue shall be removed.

Item No. 1185D - Beef Loin, Bottom Sirloin Butt, Tri-Tip Steak, Defatted (IM) - This item is 

as described in Item No. 1185C except that steaks shall be trimmed practically free of fat.

Item No. 1188 – Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Bone-in – This item is derived from a short loin 

or Item No. 188 and consists of the consists of M. psoas major and M. psoas minor, attached to 

the transverse process of the lumbar vertebra. Steaks shall have a diameter of the M. psoas 

major not less than 1.5 inches (3.7 cm) in the longest dimension.

Item No. 1189 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak - The steaks shall be prepared from any IMPS 

tenderloin item. However, the narrowest diameter of the cut surface of the M. psoas major

must be at least 1.0 inch (25 mm) (excluding fat). Any fat or lean not firmly attached to the M.

psoas major shall be removed. . Maximum surface fat thickness where present shall be 1⁄8-inch 

(3 mm) unless otherwise specified by the purchaser.

Item No. 1189A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle On, Defatted - The steaks shall 

be prepared from any IMPS tenderloin item defatted as described in Item No. 189A. The 

narrowest diameter of the cut surface of the M. psoas major must be at least 1.0 inch (25 mm) 

(excluding fat).
70

Item No. 1189B - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle On, Partially Defatted - The 

steaks shall be prepared from any IMPS tenderloin item defatted as described in Item No. 

189B. The narrowest diameter of the cut surface of the M. psoas major must be at least 1.0 

inch (25 mm) (excluding fat).

Item No. 1190 - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle Off, Defatted - This item is 

prepared from Item No. 190. The narrowest diameter of the cut surface of the M. psoas major

must be at least 1.0 inch (25 mm) (excluding fat).

Item No. 1190A - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Side Muscle Off, Skinned - This item is 

prepared from Item No. 190A. The narrowest diameter of the cut surface of the M. psoas major

must be at least 1.0 inch (25 mm) (excluding fat).

Item No. 1190B - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Steak, Full, Side Muscle Off, Center Cut, Skinned 

(IM) - This item is from Item No. 190B and shall consist of the M. psoas major only.

Item No. 1190C - Beef Loin, Tenderloin Tips - Tenderloin tips shall be prepared from any 

tenderloin which meets end item requirements. Tips may consist of any portion of the thin end 

of the M. psoas major, M. psoas minor or M. iliacus and shall consist of pieces which are no less 

than 1.5 square inches (9.7 sq cm) and are no less than 1⁄2-inch (13 mm) thick at any point.

9.0 Glossary

Anterior – Toward the front of the carcass, or forward of.

Blast Frozen – Products are frozen rapidly at extremely low temperatures (≤ -10o

F) in 

conjunction with high-velocity air movement around the product.

Block Ready – A cut that is marketed ready for further processing or portioning.

BRT – Boned, rolled and tied (or netted).

Butterfly – To split cuts and roasts in half, leaving the halves hinged on one edge.

Carcass – The dressed, harvested animal containing two “sides”.

Center Cut – Term used to indicate the interior portion of a cut after removal of outer edges or 

ends to create a more desirable, uniform portion.

Chain – The side muscle of the tenderloin.

Chilled – A temperature related term generally used to describe “fresh” product.

Chine Bone – A part of the backbone that remains after the carcass is split.

Comminuted – Reduction of meat particle size, using such methods as grinding, dicing and 

chopping.

Dorsal to – Toward the upper or top line of the carcass away from the navel.

End Cuts – Cuts made from the ends of primal or sub-primal cuts. Ends often lack the 

uniformity of the adjacent cuts.
71

Evisceration – The process of removing the internal organs from the carcass during harvest.

Frenched – The process by which the bone is exposed after removing the M. intercostales 

interni and/or the lean and fat surrounding it to provide a decorative appearance.

Fresh – Refers to meats that have not been canned, cured, smoked, or cooked. In addition to 

the above, the product must never have been frozen.

Frozen – Refers to meats that have been reduced in temperature to below the freezing 

temperature of meat (<28o

F).

IM – Acronym for Individual Muscle designating that a cut is composed of one muscle only.

IQF – Acronym for Individually Quick Frozen. Refers to cuts that have been individually quick 

frozen at extremely low temperatures immediately after processing.

Lateral – Away from the median plane that divides the carcass vertically into right and left sides.

Medial – Towards the median plane that divides the carcass vertically into right and left sides.

Net Weight – Weight of the contents of a container after the weight of the packaging and 

packing materials has been deducted.

Posterior to – Towards the rear of the carcass, or backward of.

Primal Cuts – Basic major cuts into which carcasses and sides are separated.

Side – One matched half of a beef carcass.

Sub-Primal Cuts – Smaller cuts derived from primal cuts.

Ventral – Toward the belly of the carcass away from the upper or top line.