Frequently Asked Questions:
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How does the quality of CTB beef compare to the beef I would buy at a grocery store?
Our beef is naturally raised, without growth-promoting hormones or antibiotics, and is not treated with preservatives, contrary to the majority of what is sold in grocery stores. To provide top quality taste and texture, our cattle are fed locally-produced corn the last few months prior to processing in order to fully marble the meat resulting in tender and flavorful beef.
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The high traceability of our beef differentiates it from most of the beef you would find in the grocery store. We are able to trace the genealogy of our calves back for generations. We track what and how much we feed our calves as well as where that feed came from. To stay true to that traceability, we assure that the meat you receive is from one unique calf.
How is the cost figured for the beef I purchase?
Our goal "live weight", the weight of calf at the time of butchering, is 1,100-1,300 lbs. We base our pricing off of the "rail weight", which is also referred to as hanging weight. This is the weight our butcher reports to us at the time of processing. Our price on the rail is $4.07 lb. Therefore, cost per quarter typically ranges from $670-795. However, actual price will vary depending on the weight of the calf. The processing fee is determined by and payable directly to the butcher at the time of pick-up.
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How does the price of CTB beef compare to beef I would buy at a grocery store?
When you purchase beef from the grocery store, you pay different prices for each individual cut. Alternatively, when you order from CTB in bulk (by the quarter), you will receive all different cuts (i.e. T-bone, sirloin, ribeye, roasts, hamburger patties, ground beef, etc...) for one price, as outlined above. This provides you with the highest quality cuts without the increased cost.
Where can I find more information on the types of cuts I can request to be processed?
When it is time for you to choose your processing preferences, our butcher will contact you to gather this information and answer any questions you have. In order to get a general idea on the types of cuts that are available, please visit the following external links: Cuts of Beef 1 Cuts of Beef 2
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Where should I store the beef I purchase?
We recommend 1 cubic foot of freezer space for every 35-40 lbs of packaged beef. More space may be needed for oddly-shaped cuts. Typically, a 5 cubic foot freezer should be enough space for one quarter beef.