One of our most asked questions is, “How much does half a beef cost?” It is our most cost-effective way to purchase beef for your family and fill your freezer. There are so many different companies and families out there that offer bulk beef and everyone prices it a little bit differently. It can become confusing and frustrating, and we want to fix that!
Hanging weight, sometimes referred to as carcass weight, refers to the weight of the animal after slaughter but before trimming and processing. The inedible parts have been removed (hide, head, blood), but it still includes bones, fat, and some tissue that will later be trimmed away. The hanging weight is generally 60-65% of the animal’s live weight.
Cut weight is the final weight of ready-to-eat, packaged meat after processing. The removal of bones, fat, and cutting has all taken place. Cut weight is going to be much less than hanging weight because the excess bones, fat, and tissue have already been removed. Cut weight is typically 50%-70% of the animal’s hanging weight.
We choose to sell by cut weight because we do not want our customers paying for part of the animal they do not want or in most cases even get (bones, fat, etc.). When you purchase from Wyoming Pure you pay by cut weight, which means you only pay for the cut and wrapped meat you actually get.
Typically, the price ends up being very comparable. If beef is sold by the hanging weight, the price will be lower because the carcass weighs more. Let’s break it down!
If the hanging weight of the animal is 898 pounds half of that would be 449 pounds.
449 lbs x $4.45/lb. (processing included) = $1,998.05
After the 21 day dry aging process has taken place the beef is then cut into varying cuts, fat, bones, and organs that you may not want are all removed. In this case the customer took home 200.21 lbs of beef. With the dry aging process, there is a loss in weight because of water that has been removed.
200.21 lbs. X $9.95/lb (processing included) = $1,992.09
So, even though the price on hanging weight animals is less per pound, you are essentially paying the same amount.
Processing the animal is another expense that is incurred when purchasing bulk beef. Some companies choose to charge processing in a separate fee, so this is something to watch for when comparing prices as well. Our cut weight price includes processing.
Processors and beef companies offer many different cuts. Most companies you look at will offer a standard cut which includes the most popular cuts. Some even offer custom cutting options. If you check out the chart below you can see what we offer in each bulk beef option.
The amount of space you have in your freezer may determine if you purchase a whole, half, quarter, or eighth beef. The price break down table above also shows how much freezer space you may need. Also included is an estimate on how long the beef will last for your family. Keep in mind that every family is different!
In conclusion, we recommend that you take your time when selecting where to purchase your half beef. Do some math and check to see if processing is included in the per pound price. If you have any questions please reach out to us or shop our website to make your deposit today!