Processing, Parts, and Deboning Yields of Four Ages of Broilers

Abstract Broiler chicks from four different strain crosses were fed a practical type diet with nine birds from each sex and strain-cross processed, cut up and hand-deboned at 42, 49, 56, and 63 days of age. The net weight and percentage of live weight at each operation were recorded and compared. Picked and eviscerated weights (including head, neck, and feet) were 1,236, 1,448, 1,904, and 2,231 g for birds at 6, 7, 8, and 9 wk of age, respectively. In general, age or age × sex interactions were the most common factors affecting processing yields, parts, and edible portion weights. On a live weight basis, percent eviscerated yields including head, neck, and feet increased significantly (P