Classification
Classification and paymentBeef cattle are slaughtered at our Vion Tilburg cattle abattoir. We guarantee proper payment to the beef farmers. A special method for weighing and classifying the cattle is used for this purpose. Employees of the independent Product Board for Livestock and Meat (CBS) check the weighing at abattoirs.
They are also responsible for the classification of the cattle. The classification system is based on the sex, the type of animal, musculature and the percentage of lean meat and fat. In the European Union this is expressed in the letters S.E.U.R.O.P.
Beef cattle are classified by category and age according to conformation and fatness quality criteria.
Conformation (proportion of meat) is designated by the letters
S, E, U, R, O, P.
| S | superior |
| E | excellent |
| U | very good |
| R | good |
| O | moderate |
| P | low |
The fat layer is designated in figures:
| 1 | low |
| 2 | light |
| 3 | moderate |
| 4 | well fattened |
| 5 | very well fattened |
In the Netherlands the classifications for conformation and fatness are divided into subcategories (except for class S). The symbols +, o and - (plus, circle and minus respectively) indicate the more specific classification.
The SEUROP class that has been assessed is applied to the carcass with a stamp or label. The Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food quality checks that the classification is performed properly. The payment to the beef farmer is based on the SEUROP quality class and weight.