AN ECONOMETRIC DECOMPOSITION OF AGGREGATE DATA: APPLICATION TO THE EU-15 AVERAGE CATTLE SLAUGHTER WEIGHT

Abstract

Decomposition method was developed to disaggregate EU cattle slaughter weight. Model has good fit, no correlation, significant coefficients, consistent signs, and desirable Theil-validation statistics. Estimates for calves, cows, and other cattle are very close to reported weights. Application for New Zealand, Mexico, sheep sector, and dairy-beef calving rates were also successful.Livestock Production/Industries, Research Methods/ Statistical Methods,