Are you curious about the cost of buying beef in bulk?
If you’re looking to stock up your freezer with high-quality, grass-fed beef, it’s important to understand the concept of hanging weight and how it affects the price you pay.
In this article, we’ll break down the average cost of beef based on hanging weight and explore the various factors that can impact the final price.
From processing fees to net yield, we’ll cover everything you need to know before making your next bulk beef purchase.
So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
What Is The Average Price Of Beef Hanging Weight?
The average price of beef hanging weight can vary depending on a number of factors. Generally speaking, the cost is based on the weight of the animal after the hide, head, hoofs, and organs have been removed, but before individual cuts of meat are made. This is known as the hanging weight.
On average, a whole beef carcass can weigh between 700-800 pounds and cost around $6.25 per pound of hanging weight. This means that a 700-pound carcass would cost $4,375 and an 800-pound carcass would cost $5,000.
For those looking to purchase smaller quantities, half, quarter, and eighth beefs are also available. The cost per pound increases with each lower increment, typically by around $0.25 per pound.
It’s important to note that the net yield of meat can vary from animal to animal and typically yields up to 70% of the hanging weight. This means that a 800-pound carcass could yield approximately 557 pounds of meat for your freezer.
Understanding Hanging Weight
When purchasing beef by hanging weight, it’s important to understand what that means. Hanging weight is the weight of the animal after it has been slaughtered and processed, but before it has been cut into individual pieces of meat. This weight includes the bones, organs, and other non-edible parts that are removed during processing.
The hanging weight is used to determine the cost of the beef, as well as the fees for processing and butchering. The cost per pound of hanging weight can vary depending on the region and the specific farmer or supplier.
It’s important to note that the hanging weight does not necessarily equate to the amount of meat you will receive. Typically, the net yield of meat is around 70% of the hanging weight. This means that if you purchase a quarter share of beef with a hanging weight of 150 pounds, you can expect to receive approximately 105 pounds of meat.
When purchasing beef by hanging weight, it’s also important to ask about any additional fees for processing and butchering. These fees can vary depending on the supplier and the region, and may be based on a per-pound basis or a flat rate.
Factors That Affect The Cost Of Beef
There are several factors that can affect the cost of beef hanging weight. One of the most significant factors is the breed of the animal. Certain breeds are known for producing higher quality meat, and as a result, can command a higher price. Additionally, the age of the animal can also impact the price. Older animals tend to have tougher meat and are therefore less desirable, which can result in a lower price per pound.
Another factor that can impact the cost is the location where the animal was raised. Local farms may charge more due to their smaller scale and higher quality control standards. Additionally, transportation costs can also play a role in the final price.
The processing fees associated with butchering and slaughtering can also impact the cost of beef hanging weight. These fees are typically based on the hanging weight of the animal and can range from $0.65 to $0.75 per pound. The kill charge, which is the fee to slaughter, gut, and skin the animal, can also vary and range from $65 to $85.
Finally, individual cuts of meat can impact the final cost. Bone-in cuts typically yield more meat than boneless cuts, which can result in a higher price per pound for boneless cuts. Additionally, certain cuts of meat, such as ribeye or filet mignon, are more expensive due to their high demand and limited availability.
Processing Fees And Other Hidden Costs
In addition to the cost of the animal, there are other hidden costs associated with beef hanging weight. One of the largest expenses is the processing fee, which can range from $70 to $125 per quarter beef. This fee covers the cost of butchering, cutting, and packaging the meat.
Another factor to consider is the reduction in weight during processing. As the animal is turned into individual cuts of meat, there is a reduction in yield due to trimming and bone removal. The average yield for bone-in cuts is 75-80% of carcass weight for pork, 65-70% for beef, and 70-75% for lamb. Aging and further processing can also decrease the final product weight due to moisture loss and curing.
Other costs to consider include transportation fees for getting the animal to the processor and packaging supplies such as freezer paper, plastic wrap, and labels.
It’s important for consumers to be aware of these additional costs when purchasing beef hanging weight. While it may seem like a large investment upfront, buying in bulk can ultimately save money in the long run by reducing the cost per pound of meat.
Net Yield: How Much Meat Will You Actually Get?
When purchasing beef by hanging weight, it’s important to understand that the actual amount of meat you will receive is typically around 60-70% of the hanging weight. This is due to the removal of the hide, head, hoofs, and organs during processing.
For example, a 1200-pound cow with a dressing percentage of 61% would have a dressed weight of 732 pounds. From that, the expected yield of retail cuts ranges from approximately 55% to 75%, depending on factors such as the fatness and muscling of the animal and the type of cuts produced.
Assuming an average yield of 65%, this means that from a 732-pound dressed weight, you can expect approximately 490 pounds of boneless, trimmed beef. Ground beef may make up around 50% of that weight, so it’s important to communicate with your farmer or butcher about your desired cuts and ratios.
It’s also worth noting that these figures are averages and can vary depending on the specific animal and processing methods used. However, understanding the net yield can help you estimate how much meat you will actually receive and plan accordingly for your needs.
Grass-fed Vs Grain-fed Beef: Does It Impact The Price?
When it comes to beef, one of the biggest decisions consumers have to make is whether to choose grass-fed or grain-fed. While grass-fed beef is generally considered to be healthier and more sustainable, it also tends to be more expensive than grain-fed beef.
Grass-fed beef can cost as much as $4 more per pound than its grain-fed counterpart. This is because it takes longer for grass-fed cattle to reach their processing weight on an all-grass diet, making it more expensive for the farmer. However, the extra cost may be worth it for those who prioritize nutritional value and sustainability.
Grain-fed beef, on the other hand, is typically cheaper due to the fact that it’s easier and quicker for farmers to fatten up their cattle with corn or grain. However, this diet is not natural for cows and often requires the use of antibiotics to keep them healthy.
In terms of nutritional value, grass-fed beef is generally considered to be the healthier option. It contains higher levels of beneficial fatty acids like CLA and omega-3s, as well as more antioxidants and fewer calories. Grain-fed beef, on the other hand, tends to have a softer texture and sweeter flavor.
Ultimately, the decision between grass-fed and grain-fed beef comes down to personal preference and values. While grass-fed beef may be more expensive, it offers a number of nutritional benefits and is often considered more sustainable. Grain-fed beef may be cheaper and have a different taste profile, but it may also come with concerns about antibiotic use and environmental impact.
Average Price Of Beef Hanging Weight: A Breakdown
When purchasing beef by hanging weight, it’s important to understand the breakdown of costs. The current price for beef is around $2.68-$2.98 per pound plus processing costs. Basic processing costs about 71 cents per pound, with additional costs for things like tenderizing or pre-formed patties.
The average cost per pound for actual beef received will be around $3.95 for a quarter beef based on the hanging weight of the animal. Hanging weight refers to the weight of an animal before bones are removed. The hanging weight of a quarter of a beef will be about 225 pounds and cost around $670.50. The average cost to process 1/4 beef is $200, bringing the total estimated cost for a quarter of beef to $870.50.
However, it’s important to note that butchering rates have gone up due to higher labor and packaging costs, as well as high demand for their services. The kill charges went from $85 per head to $125-$150 depending on the size of the animal, while the cut and wrap charges went from 72-75 cents per pound hanging weight up to 85 cents per pound hanging weight.
This means that if you pay $3.25 per pound based on hanging weight, the actual price per pound will be around $4.11 after processing according to averages. Most custom meat processors charge from 70-90 cents per pound hanging weight to process, bringing the total cost per pound for processed beef to around $5.12.
When purchasing smaller quantities such as a quarter of beef, the average cost including processing is $710-$875, with an average net yield of 120-150 pounds of meat after processing. This brings the average cost per pound including processing to around $5.75.