Which term refers to old sheep with decreased quality meat?

The term that refers to old sheep with decreased quality meat is mutton. Mutton specifically describes the meat from older sheep, usually over one year of age. As these animals age, the quality of the meat changes, often resulting in stronger flavors and tougher texture compared to lamb, which comes from younger sheep. Understanding the distinction between lamb and mutton is essential in the meat industry, especially in terms of culinary applications and consumer preferences.

Veal, on the other hand, pertains to the meat of young cattle, typically less than three months old, and is not related to sheep. Cornish usually refers to a breed of domestic chicken known for its rapid growth and meat quality and has no connection to sheep meat. The term loin refers to a specific cut of meat, typically from the lower back of an animal, and does not denote age or quality related to sheep. Therefore, mutton is the correct term, as it directly addresses the characteristics of the meat from older sheep.