Jul 7, 20233 min read

The Ultimate Manitoba Lake Audy Meats Guide to Buying Local Full, Half, and Quarter Cows.

Updated: Apr 8

Are you considering buying a whole, half, or quarter cow? This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of purchasing bulk beef, covering everything from understanding the different cuts of meat for each portion of the cow to pricing, quality assurance, cut sheets, convenient doorstep delivery, freezer sizing, and selecting the perfect cuts for your needs. Get ready to dive into the world of buying bulk beef and experience the benefits of having high-quality, custom-cut meat readily available for your culinary adventures.

When it comes to ordering bulk beef, Lake Audy Meats stands out as a top choice. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and convenience, Lake Audy Meats offers a superior experience for those seeking high-quality, custom-cut meat. In this article, we will explore the reasons why ordering from Lake Audy Meats is a smart choice for discerning meat enthusiasts.

Understanding the Cuts of Meat: When purchasing a whole, half, or quarter cow, it's important to have a good understanding of the different cuts you'll receive. Here's a breakdown for each quarter of the cow:

Front Quarter: This section includes cuts such as chuck roast, brisket, ground beef, stewing beef, short ribs, and soup bones. These cuts are known for their rich flavor and versatility in a wide range of dishes.
Hind Quarter: The hind quarter offers cuts like sirloin steaks, T-bone steaks, top round steaks, sirloin tip roasts, rump roasts, round steaks, and ground beef. These cuts are leaner and are popular choices for grilling, roasting, or braising.
Side Quarter: The side quarter consists of cuts like ribeye steaks, strip steaks, flank steaks, skirt steaks, beef tenderloin, and ground beef. These cuts are prized for their tenderness, marbling, and exceptional flavor.

Weights and Pricing: The weight of each quarter can vary based on the size of the cow and the specific cutting instructions you provide. As a general estimate, a whole cow weighs around 600-800 pounds, resulting in approximately 150-200 pounds per quarter. Pricing is typically calculated based on the hanging weight. Multiply the hanging weight by the price per pound (typically around $6.75/lbs) to determine the total cost.
Quality and Cut Testing: To ensure the quality of your beef, choose reputable suppliers or farms that prioritize animal welfare, sustainable farming practices, and exceptional meat quality. Inquire about their sourcing methods, such as pasture-raised or grass-fed beef. Additionally, ask if they conduct cut testing to assess the tenderness, marbling, and overall quality of their beef.
Two-Week Delivery Times: Consider the timeline for processing, cutting, packaging, and delivery. While the exact timeframe varies, a typical estimate is around two weeks from the time of order to delivery. This allows for proper processing, aging (if desired), butchering, packaging, and coordination of delivery logistics.
Freezer Sizing: Before purchasing bulk beef, ensure you have adequate freezer space to store it. The amount of freezer space required will depend on the portion of cow you choose. A whole cow will generally require at least 15-20 cubic feet of freezer space, while a half cow will need around 7-10 cubic feet. A quarter cow typically requires 3-5 cubic feet. It's important to measure your freezer's capacity or consider investing in additional freezer storage if needed.
Selecting the Perfect Cuts: When customizing your order, consider your preferences and cooking style. Choose cuts that align with your culinary needs. If you enjoy grilling, prioritize steaks like ribeye or strip steak. For slow cooking or roasting, opt for cuts such as chuck roast or brisket. Ground beef is versatile and can be used in various recipes. Take into account the number of people you typically cook for and the variety of meals you like to prepare.
Cut, Wrapped, and Delivered to Your Door: Once your beef is cut and wrapped according to your specifications, many suppliers offer convenient doorstep delivery. This eliminates the need for you to travel to pick up the meat. Inquire about delivery options, any additional charges, and confirm the delivery details with the supplier.

Buying full, half, or quarter cows is an excellent option for those seeking a steady supply of high-quality, custom-cut meat. Understanding the cuts, pricing, quality assurance, cut sheets, delivery times, freezer sizing, and selecting the perfect cuts will help you make an informed decision when purchasing bulk beef. Enjoy the benefits of having premium, farm-fresh meat at your fingertips, and savor the flavor and satisfaction that comes with supporting sustainable, locally sourced agriculture. Explore the possibilities, unleash your culinary creativity, and experience the joys of buying bulk beef today while ensuring you have adequate freezer space to store your delicious bounty.