How is maturity or age determined in relation to a carcass?

Determining the maturity or age of a carcass is primarily assessed through the physiological appearance of bone and cartilage. As animals mature, their bone structure undergoes specific changes, such as the fusion of growth plates and the hardness of the bones, which are reliable indicators of age. Cartilage also changes in consistency and appearance as the animal grows older.

This method provides a more accurate assessment since it reflects the biological development of the animal rather than relying solely on records or external factors. Factors like weight and health status can be influenced by various management practices and do not directly correlate with physiological maturity in the same way that bone and cartilage development does. Thus, examining the skeletal structure provides a clearer insight into the animal's age and maturity state.