MARKET CLASSES AND GRADES t)l LIVESTOCK 3 
that are produced and the kinds that are in demand and they must 
be based largely on fundamental considerations and characteristics 
that affect values. They must be easily understood, workable, definite. 
and reasonably permanent. 
The purpose of this bulletin is to outline and explain briefly the 
United States standards for the market classes and grades of the various 
kinds of livestock commonly used as food animals, and to define or 
discuss the standard market terms associated with such classes and 
grades. 
LIVESTOCK MARKET CLASSIFICATIONS 
A livestock market classification is a guide for selecting or grouping 
animals in uniform lots according to certain natural characteristics 
that affect values. It, in effect, is a schedule or outline with appro- 
priate descriptions and definitions of the various groups commonly 
recognized and used wherever livestock are offered for sale. A com- 
plete classification specifies and describes the kinds of livestock and 
the purposes for which the animals are to be used or are most suited, 
as well as the class, age, weight, and grade of each kind. A standard 
livestock market classification is one that is generally accepted and 
used, or one that has been established by competent authority, in which 
each of the various essential market groups of livestock is specifically 
defined or described, and each is designated by a specific market term 
that has a standard meaning whenever and wherever properly used 
(figs. 1 and 2). 
Figure 1. — Prime grade Slaughter Steers at a central market. 
