Certified Angus Beef^®The Butcher's Breed

In 1976 the USDA lowered its beef grading standards. Older cattle and cattle with little marbling were able to qualify for Choice. Prime beef availability was also on the decline. So in 1978, Certified Angus Beef^® was created by the American Angus Association to bring back high standards. This USDA certified specification-branded beef was the answer to the demand for consistent, high-quality beef.

Beef must be from Angus type cattle which is known as the "Butcher's Breed". It must adhere to strict standards based on marbling, maturity and leanness. Less than one in eight Angus type cattle is eligible for the Certified Angus Beef^® program. USDA meat grading and certification service evaluates the Angus type carcass.

Certified Angus Beef^® product is distinctly different from and superior to beef marketed under the "Angus" and "Black Angus" names. Certified Angus Beef^® is the only Angus-type program approved and monitored by the American Angus Association.