Final answer:
The statement that the hide is the greatest contributor to the USDA's Estimated Hide and Offal Value is false. Other by-products can be more valuable depending on current market conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The greatest contributor to USDA's Estimated Hide and Offal Value is false. The Estimated Hide and Offal value (EHOV) is calculated based on the value of by-products produced during the slaughter of animals, such as hides, tallow, meat and bone meal, and variety meats. While the hide has historically been a significant part of this valuation, recent market dynamics have sometimes led to other by-products being more valuable. In certain market conditions, other components like edible offal (liver, heart, tongue, etc.) can surpass the hide in terms of revenue generation in the EHOV. The situation can vary depending on supply and demand, international trade, and market trends.