What system is used to grade poultry meat?

The USDA grading system is the recognized method for grading poultry meat. This system evaluates poultry based on various factors, including conformation, fat covering, and absence of defects. By utilizing this standardized grading process, consumers and producers can ensure a consistent quality in poultry products. The grades assigned by the USDA—such as A, B, or C—inform the buyer about the overall quality of the meat, which is crucial for purchasing decisions.

In contrast, the other organizations mentioned do not directly pertain to poultry grading. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) primarily focuses on food safety regulations, while the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) deals with environmental protection laws. The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) is concerned with consumer protection and preventing anticompetitive business practices. Therefore, none of these agencies are specifically involved in the grading of poultry meat.