Eat Right Practice Exam

Which USDA grade of beef is not typically purchased for general foodservice use?

1. Choice

2. Select

3. Standard

4. Commercial

The correct answer is: Commercial

The USDA grading system for beef classifies meat quality based on certain criteria, including the amount of marbling (the fat interspersed within the muscle), the quality of the meat, and the age of the animal at slaughter. Among the grades, Commercial is typically not chosen for general foodservice use because it represents a lower quality of beef that may not meet the higher standards typically sought by foodservice establishments, which aim to provide a superior dining experience. Choice grade beef is characterized by a decent amount of marbling and is quite popular for foodservice, providing good flavor and tenderness. Select grade beef is leaner than Choice but is still used in restaurants, especially where cost considerations are important. Standard grade beef is also used, particularly in less formal settings, but it is less desirable compared to Choice and Select. Commercial grade, however, lacks the quality attributes that characterize the higher grades and is often used for ground beef or processed products rather than whole cuts, which are more prominently featured in culinary applications.