“Hanging weight” vs. “Boxed weight”
Traditionally, beef prices are based on the hanging weight of the steer. This is after it has been butchered and the head, hooves, skin, and organs have been removed. It is then cut in half and hung in a cooler for up to two weeks. This improves tenderness and flavour, but also, reduces the weight due to evaporation.
Next, the side is cut, wrapped, and frozen. It is generally 65% of the hanging weight depending on a number of different factors. These factors include bone in or bone out, the fat remaining of each cut, and how lean the ground beef is.
So, If you are charged $5.00 lb hanging weight, it will be approximately $7.70 lb boxed weight. Keep in mind that this includes all of the cuts from ground beef to the highest quality of steaks. In the end, it works out quite favourably for our clients in comparison to retail prices for “grass fed” beef
What are the benefits of grass-fed beef?
Grass fed beef has more omega 3’s and B vitamins than salmon or chicken, and is known to be just as healthy. In grass fed beef, it is the amount of omega 6’s and omega 3’s that are far superior than other meats. These essential fatty acids contribute to a healthy heart and better brain function.Our steers are 100% grass fed, and are not grain finished. We believe that by feeding our steers a grass diet all the way through, it creates a leaner and more flavourful product.
Are your steers grain finished?
No, our steers are given a grass diet all the way through. We believe this creates a leaner, more flavorful product.
Where are the steers butchered?
We have been using a facility called Kam Lake View Meats. It is a family run abattoir complete with sausage processing, curing, and smoking facilities. The facility meets the Provincial Meat Inspection Regulations.
Is your beef “organic”?
No, our steers are not labelled “organic”. We believe that having the steers in their natural habitat with open space to roam, feeding on grass, creates the best beef. They are extremely healthy and happy and roam free on our property.
Are your steers raised without hormones or antibiotics?
Yes, our steers are raised without hormones or antibiotics.They roam freely and eat the grass on our property and remain happy and healthy throughout their lives. They are raised as free-range beef who eat the hay that we grow on our property
What will I typically get with my order?
In your order, you will receive a variety of cuts that are freshly prepared and then frozen to maintain the beef’s quality while it is in transport to your freezer. Your order will include cuts such as: roasts, steaks, ground beef, stew meat, and short ribs. Custom orders also available, see below for details. Although not always possible, we always try out best to tailor to each and every one of our customers’ preferences when they are ordering if you have a specific order in mind.
How much storage space will I need?
Be prepared and plan ahead for freezer space – a mixed quarter will typically take up the space of a typical fridge-sized freezer. A side can weigh between 225 lbs and 300 lbs in “hanging weight”(see below for the definition of hanging weight), and will take up the space of a small chest freezer.
How many pounds will a side weigh?
A side will weigh between 225 lbs and 300 lbs “hanging weight”. See above for the definition of “hanging weight”.
