Source: MEATINGPLACE, 11/4/11


USDA has revised its definitions for the official U.S. classes of poultry to reflect more accurately the characteristics of poultry in the market.

The new definitions for fryer and roasting chickens and turkey lower the age of poultry in five classes in response to the shorter times it now takes to grow the birds.

Among the changes, the age for ''broiler’’ or ''fryer’’ is lowered to less than 10 weeks from under 13 weeks and the age for ''roaster’’ or ''roasting chicken’’ is lowered to 8 to 12 weeks from 3-to-5 months.

The rule becomes effective on Jan. 1, 2014. To view the regulation, click here.
 

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