What are the top four USDA grades of beef?

The top four USDA grades of beef are Prime, Choice, Select, and Standard, which accurately reflects the progression of quality based on factors such as marbling, maturity, and overall tenderness.

Prime beef is the highest quality, known for its abundant marbling and tenderness, making it ideal for high-end dining. Choice is slightly lower in marbling than Prime but still offers great flavor and tenderness, making it a popular selection for many consumers. Select beef has less marbling than Choice and is generally leaner, leading to less tenderness but still acceptable quality for many cooking applications. Standard is the lowest of the top four grades and may have less consistent quality and tenderness.

Other choices listed do not reflect the accurate grading system established by the USDA. For instance, while "Grade A" is a common term in poultry grading, it does not apply to beef grading. Similarly, terms like "Extra" are not recognized within the established USDA grades. This understanding of beef grading is crucial for anyone involved in food systems and management, as it impacts purchasing decisions and product labeling.