What are retail cuts primarily defined as?

Retail cuts are primarily defined as portions of meat that are sold directly to consumers in grocery stores or butcher shops. These cuts are typically smaller, more manageable portions that consumers purchase for home cooking and meal preparation. The focus is on the end-user, which are households or individuals who prepare meals.

In contrast, options that reference animal feed, factory processing, or large cuts sold to wholesalers pertain to different aspects of the meat supply chain. Cuts for animal feed relate to parts of the animal that are not suitable for human consumption. Cuts meant for processing in factories refer to larger sections of meat that are transformed into various products, such as sausages or deli meats. Lastly, large cuts sold to wholesalers emphasize distribution to retail outlets rather than the direct consumer market. Therefore, the correct identification of retail cuts centers on their role as products available for consumers to purchase and enjoy in their own kitchens.