FAQs
How much freezer space do I need?
For most quarters, 4 or 5 ft.³ of freezer space will do. A half will usually fit in 8 ft.³ of space. If you’re looking to purchase a freezer, there are many 9 ft.³ models available that would easily hold a half, as well as give you a little extra room for other storage. These freezers can usually be found in the $350 to $400 range.
Are your animals grass or grain fed?
All of our animals have unlimited access to grass or hay every single day. Some of our animals are completely finished on grass and we sell as grass finished. For other animals, we offer grain during the finishing phase. We sell these as grass fed grain finished. The grains we use for these animals, we buy from regenerative farmers and are confident that they are grown in a regenerative way and healthy for the soil, the animals, and for you!
Does grass finished versus grass fed grain finished meat taste different?
It can taste a little different, but it’s not an overwhelming difference. In general, grass finished animals will not have as much marbling in their meat and can have a deeper, bolder flavor. Also, prior to cooking, grass fed animals can have a slight yellow tint to the fat. Grain finished meat is usually a little heavier marbled, a milder flavor, and may be be slightly more tender. These are broad stroke averages. What we strive for is when cooked side-by-side, in a blind taste test you would have a difficult time telling which is which.
Should I order grass finished or grass fed grain finished?
First, don’t stress about this decision. Know that whatever you choose is good for your family, good for the environment, and a good value! If this is your first time buying beef in this manner, start with buying what’s closest to what your family is used to. If your family is used to grass finished meats you buy individually now, then try grass finished. If you’re used to grain finished or not sure, try our grass fed grain finished variety.
Is there a cost difference between grass finished and grain finished?
Yes. Grass finished animals take approximately twice as long to produce so there’s extra cost associated with them.
What is hanging weight?
Once the beef is harvested, the hanging weight is the total amount of meat and bones available to make final cuts from. This is the standardized weight that you are charged. In most cases, our half beefs weigh in the low 300s and quarters weigh 165 or so. These are just averages so yours will vary somewhat. The amount that is actually delivered to your door will be less than this based on how you have it cut and water-weight loss during the dry aging process. For example, someone that gets T-bones, ribs, and soup bones, will have more weight delivered to their door than someone that got all boneless steaks, turned the ribs into ground beef, and does not want the soup bones
How soon ahead of time do I need to order?
This may be the most significant adjustment when purchasing beef this way. To be sure you get beef when you need it, most people buy once a year. They’re then on a repetitive schedule and reserve their beef months in advance. When you’re just starting with us, sometimes we have openings in a matter of weeks, or sometimes everything could be taken for months. The best thing to do is contact us quickly so we can get you in as soon as possible!
I’m interested but nervous. I also don’t have a lot of freezer space. Do you offer anything less than a quarter?
Check out the Sampler Boxes. This is a good option if you’re limited on space or just want to try it out. This option does not guarantee free delivery. If you’re nearby or we can work it in with other deliveries in your area, we will. We try to be flexible and work with you on this option!
How long will the meat last in my freezer?
Everything that’s vacuum sealed and remains frozen will last longer than you think - up to a couple of years! However, for best results, we encourage people to order what they need for a year and then replenish their supply with a new order.
How do I get started?
Click on the “Order Your Beef” button which is on the top right of most pages. That will take you to an order screen where you can fill out what you’d like. The next step is we’ll send you an invoice and then start discussing delivery timeframes.