Quarter, Half, or Whole - What Do They Mean?

If you're interested in purchasing local beef, you may have the option to order by the quarter, half, or whole. This means that you can purchase a specific portion of a cow, rather than just individual cuts of meat. There are a few key benefits to ordering beef in this way:

  1. Cost savings: When you order a quarter, half, or whole beef, you are typically able to get a lower price per pound compared to purchasing individual cuts. This is because you are paying for the entire animal, rather than just specific cuts.

  2. Customization: When you order a quarter, half, or whole beef, you have the opportunity to specify which cuts you would like. This allows you to get exactly the cuts of meat that you prefer and eliminates waste.

  3. Support local farmers and ranchers: By purchasing a quarter, half, or whole beef, you are supporting local farmers and ranchers in your community. This helps to strengthen the local economy and ensures that the beef you are consuming was raised in a sustainable and ethical way.

When it comes to deciding which option is best for you, it's important to consider your budget, your meat consumption habits, and your storage capacity. A quarter beef is typically around 125 pounds of meat and is suitable for a family of four that consumes meat regularly. A half beef is around 250 pounds of meat and is suitable for a family of four to six that consumes meat regularly. A whole beef is around 500 pounds of meat and is suitable for a large family or group that consumes meat regularly and has the storage capacity to accommodate it.

If you're interested in ordering a quarter, half, or whole beef from a local farmer or rancher, be sure to do your research and choose a reputable source. This will ensure that you are getting high-quality, locally-raised beef that aligns with your values.