Steps to Purchase a Whole, Half or Quarter Cow
To begin your search for local farms that sell beef directly to consumers through the Mi Farm Network website, you can start by exploring three key areas:
1. "Map" tab on the Mi Farm Network website
- How to Use: Navigate to the "MAP" tab on the Mi Farm Network website. On our interactive Map select the Meat Category, then Beef. The map will drop all pins with the exception of the farms that sell beef.
2. "Social Media" tab on the Mi Farm Network website
- How to Use: Navigate to the "SOCIAL MEDIA" tab on the Mi Farm Network website, and select the State's Facebook Group you are looking within, then post an "ISO" (In Search Of) message, specifying that you’re looking for a farm that sells whole, half, or quarter cows. Please remember to include your location on your post and the radius you are willing to drive within.
3. "MAP" tab, on the Mi Farm Network website, for MI Farmers Markets
- How to Use: Navigate to the "MAP" tab on the Mi Farm Network website, and head to "Farmers Markets." This can help you find Farmers Markets in your Michigan area. Visit chosen Farmers Market or give the Market Master a call to check if they have a vending farmers who sells beef.
Understand the Process
Whole, Half, or Quarter?: Decide how much beef you want. A whole cow will provide the most meat, but it requires significant freezer space and a large upfront investment. A half or quarter cow is more manageable in terms of space and cost.
Hanging Weight vs. Take-Home Weight: Beef is usually sold by the hanging weight (the weight of the carcass after it's been dressed but before it's been butchered). The take-home weight is usually about 60-70% of the hanging weight after the meat is cut, trimmed, and packaged.
Place Your Order
Contact the Farmer: Once you’ve chosen a farm, contact them to discuss the details. You'll usually need to place an order in advance since the process can take time.
Deposit: Be prepared to put down a deposit, especially if you're buying a whole or half cow.
Work with a Butcher
Custom Cuts: The farmer will typically work with a local butcher who will process the meat according to your preferences. You can specify how you want the beef cut (e.g., thickness of steaks, roasts, ground beef, etc.).
Packaging: Discuss packaging options (e.g., vacuum-sealed or butcher paper) and how the meat will be labeled.
Cost and Payment
Cost: The cost will include the price per pound of hanging weight and the butchering fees. Costs can vary depending on the region, the farm, and the processing fees.
Final Payment: Once the meat is processed, you'll pay the farmer for the beef and the butcher for processing, if it's not included in the initial cost.
Pick Up and Store
Pick-Up: Coordinate with the butcher or farmer to pick up your meat. Some might offer delivery for an additional fee.
Storage: Ensure you have enough freezer space. A whole cow can take up an entire chest freezer, while a half or quarter will require less space.
Enjoy Your Beef
Cooking: Now that you have a large supply of beef, experiment with different recipes and enjoy the variety of cuts you’ll have on hand.
Tips
Freezer Space: Make sure your freezer is large enough and functioning properly before your order is ready.
Share with Others: If a whole or half cow is too much for your household, consider splitting it with friends or family.
Buying in bulk like this is a cost-effective way to enjoy high-quality beef throughout the year, especially if you prioritize supporting local farmers and knowing where your food comes from.