The South African carcass classification system for lamb, mutton, beef, and goat (in use since June 1992) as outlined in the Agricultural Product Standards Act 119 of 1990 and its regulations (R55), classifies carcasses based on age, fatness, conformation, and damage.
Download the CLASSIFICATION OF RED MEAT DOCument hereThe carcass classification system could be viewed as a common language for all role players in the value chain. It is an essential part of efficient animal production and plays a role in meat price determination. It also forms a basis for the utilisation of price differences and assists the industry in maximising consumer satisfaction through more consistent and specifically defined meat quality.
From a consumer perspective the red meat classification system could enable consumers to select meat that aligns to their needs and preferences according to the characteristics within a specific class.
The South African carcass classification system for beef, lamb, and goat meat classifies carcasses based on age (A, AB, B, C), fatness (1–6), conformation (1–5), and damage (1–3).
Here is a more detailed breakdown:
Age classification:
A: Animals with no permanent teeth.
AB: Animals with 1 to 2 permanent teeth.
B: Animals with 3 to 6 permanent teeth.
C: Animals with more than 6 permanent teeth.
Fatness classification:
Fatness is assessed visually and assigned a code from 1 (low) to 6 (very high).
Conformation classification:
Carcass conformation is assessed visually and assigned a code from 1 (excellent) to 5 (poor).
Damage classification:
Carcass damage is assessed and assigned a code from 1 to 3.
Roller-marking:
Each carcass is roller-marked according to its classification, with different ink colours for different age classes: purple for A, green for AB, brown for B, and red for C. Fatness class is indicated with numbers (111, 222, etc.).
Register for meat classification
Complete the form and submit your application to info@samic.co.za to register an abattoir for meat classification.
Download APPLICATION FORMFees for high and low throughput abattoirs (2025)
High throughput: R6 102 excl VAT and low throughput: R3 884 excl VAT per month.