The Complete Guide to Buying Bulk Beef
It's simple. If you want to serve wholesome, delicious meals, start with exceptional ingredients. Beef well cared for and raised on pasture, without the use of growth hormones or antibiotics are happier, healthier animals. The result? Better beef. Information on how an animal was raised simply cannot be found on a label at the grocery store. Find a farm that you trust to purchase beef direct from. You will taste the difference.
Buying in bulk direct from a farm is the best way to get exceptional quality meat at the best price. For more reasons to buy bulk beef head to our blog post on our Top 5 Reasons to Buy Bulk Beef. Below is our complete guide to buying bulk beef direct from a farm.
How much should I buy?
The figures for live and hanging weights are reflective of OUR farm (Gander Family Farms). This will be heavily impacted by the breed of cattle your farmer produces as well as their feeding/finishing practices. Even within our program, there will be fluctuation as each animal is different. These are our averages just to give you an idea of what to expect.
How much will I get back?
All figures above are for a quarter of a beef. For a beef half, double the quantity of cuts shown on the chart and the freezer space needed.
How is the beef cut & packaged?
The beef is cut according to your specific instructions. The butcher will guide you through all available options, allowing you to customize your order with a selection of steaks, roasts, ground beef, and more. You can choose the thickness of your steaks, the size of your roasts, and whether you prefer bone-in or boneless cuts. Additionally, any cuts you don’t prefer can be ground into ground beef. You also have a choice between paper wrapping or vacuum-sealed (plastic) bags, both of which preserve the beef’s quality for over 12 months.
How much does it cost?
When buying a whole/half/quarter beef you have two costs. You will pay the farmer for the beef and the butcher for custom cutting and wrapping the beef to your specifications. Both are charged based on the hanging (carcass) weight of the steer. Below are our average hanging weights, pricing, and typical processing costs.
Avg Hanging Weights
Quantity | Avg Hanging Weight |
Whole Beef | 800 LBs |
Beef Half | 400 LBs |
Beef Quarter | 200 LBs |
*2024 GFF Beef Prices: *Subject to Change*
Quantity | Price/Lb x Hanging Weight |
Whole Beef | $3.35 |
Beef Half | $3.35 |
Beef Quarter | $3.50 |
Beef Processing Cost: (Paid to Butcher)
Approximately: $.85/lb x hanging weight
Total Investment:
For example, on a beef half with a 400 lb hanging weight you will pay approximately: $4.20/lb ($3.35 + $.85) x 400 = $1,680.
How do I know what I am buying is good quality?
The quality of beef—its flavor and tenderness—depends on factors like breed, diet, age, and the farm’s raising practices. When buying directly from a farm, you have the opportunity to ask questions about these aspects, something you can't do at a grocery store. At Gander Family Farm, we prioritize genetics and nutrition to ensure tender, flavorful beef. Our cattle are raised with the utmost care, resulting in wholesome, delicious meat that you can confidently serve to your family and friends. If you’d like extra reassurance before committing to a quarter, half, or whole beef, purchasing a beef box is a great way to sample the quality firsthand.
Can we visit the farm?
Most farms welcome visitors, but it’s best to arrange your visit in advance. At Gander Family Farm, we have our Farm Store located right on the Farm. Feel free to stop by during our Open Farm Store hours to meet us, ask any questions, and even purchase cuts to sample before committing to a quarter, half, or whole beef. Learn more about our Farm Store here!
How do I reserve my beef?
If you are local, we've got you covered! To reserve bulk beef with Gander Family Farms, fill out the form below, send us an email (ganderfarms@gmail.com) or give us a call at 608-364-4767. We can update you on our next available time frame and answer any questions you may have.
Comments