Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Common Questions:

How old is the animal?

The age of the animal can influence the characteristics of the beef. Many cattle marketed for steaks and roasts are harvested at a younger age, while beef from older animals is often used for ground beef. Many grain-finished cattle are harvested around 15-18 months of age. Grass-finished cattle are typically older because they take longer to reach market weight on grass alone. Both grass-finished and grain-finished beef can provide a variety of eating experiences, depending on the animal and production practices. Ask your producer about the age of the animal and the products you can expect to receive.

Is the beef processed at an inspected facility?

Beef sold to consumers should be processed at a state- or federally inspected facility. Inspection helps verify that processing facilities meet food safety requirements.

What quality grade do you expect?

Quality grades are different from USDA inspection, which is required for all beef sold commercially. Quality grades, such as Prime, Choice, and Select, are voluntary and indicate the amount of marbling, or intramuscular fat, in the beef. In general, Prime has more marbling than Choice, and Choice has more marbling than Select. Most cattle harvested in the United States grade Choice or higher. Because quality grades are assigned after harvest, producers cannot guarantee a specific grade, but they may be able to provide an estimate based on the animal.

When will the beef be available?

When you purchase beef, you are working around the schedule of the farmer and the livestock they are raising. Some things can't be rushed, and beef is one of those. Availability also depends on the locker or processing plant's availability. Ask when the animal is expected to be harvested and when you can expect to receive your beef.

What should I know about processing and cutting instructions?

Every processing facility operates a little differently, so ask what to expect when it comes to selecting cuts and packaging preferences. If you are purchasing a whole, half, or quarter beef, you may have options for steak thickness, roast sizes, ground beef packaging, and other customizations.

Once the animal is delivered to the processor, you will typically work directly with the processor to complete your cutting instructions. Processing fees may be billed separately from the purchase of the animal, although pricing structures vary by producer. Be sure to ask what costs are included before making your purchase.

Has it been grain-finished or grass finished?

All beef is wholesome and delicious, and cattle spend the majority of their lives on grass. The big difference between grass finished and grain finished is the taste. Some people prefer the taste of grain-finished, and some people prefer the taste of grass-finished beef. If it's important to you, just ask.

Want to learn more? Explore the differences between grass-finished and grain-finished beef.

How much beef will I get?

On average, a whole beef yields approximately 620 pounds of packaged beef, while a half beef yields about 320 pounds. Actual yields will vary based on the size of the animal and processing specifications. For a more detailed explanation of how beef yield is calculated, visit our beef yield guide.

How much ground beef can I expect in my order?

You can customize your order to fit your family's needs. If you prefer more ground beef and fewer roasts, many processors can adjust your cutting instructions accordingly. As a general guideline, about 38% of a side of beef is typically packaged as ground beef. Be sure to discuss your preferences with the processor when completing your cut sheet. Actual amounts will vary depending on the animal and the cutting instructions you choose.

How much freezer space will I need?

Freezer space requirements vary based on the amount of beef you purchase and your processing preferences. Review our freezer space guide to estimate how much room you'll need before bringing your beef home.