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How large are your animals when processed?
We raise our cattle to be around 1,400-1,500 pounds. Our cattle are grass fed followed with a grain silage for the last 600-700 pounds of growth.
How much meat does one animal produce?
There are a couple of different weights that are spoken of - hanging weight & processed weight. The hanging weight is approximately 60-63 percent of the live or walking weight. The processed weight is approximately 40% of the walking weight.
How is your meat priced?
Our pricing is based on hanging weight. The amount we charge includes: 14-day aging, custom cut, vacuum sealed, frozen, and boxed. The only additional cost would be upgrades i.e. bacon wrapped, marinating, special seasoning, patties, etc.
How much meat do you get from one animal?
Based on a 1,400-pound animal, you will receive approximately 560 pounds of processed meat for a full beef. This will vary based on how you have the animal processed. This means how much fat do you want on the meat? Do you choose bone-in or boneless cuts?
How is beef graded?
The USDA has three main quality grades for beef, PRIME, Choice and Select. PRIME is the best grade and is achieved when marbling (white flecks of fat in beef muscle that make your beef tender, flavorful and juicy) is present. Vanguard Cattle is proud that our beef has been graded 100% PRIME for the last two and half years.
Where is your meat processed?
Vanguard Cattle uses only USDA inspected facilities. Our primary processor is located in Lampasas, Texas.
Do I get to choose how I would like my meat cut/packaged?
Yes. When your processing date is fixed, you will be notified and you will call the processor and discuss what cuts you would like, i.e., steak thickness, bone-in roasts, percent of fat in your hamburger, add-ons such as bacon wrap, marinating, etc. Vanguard Cattle will provide you with sample cut sheets to aid in your choices.
What size freezer do I need?
The amount of meat you purchase will determine the size of freezer needed. A rule of thumb is 1 cubic foot per 30-35 lbs. of processed meat. Not all of your beef will come packaged perfectly flat or square. Some cuts such as roasts and briskets can be round or oddly shaped. So, for a 1,400 lb. animal, here are some approximate numbers.
Whole beef: 16-19 cubic feet
Half beef: 8-10 cubic feet
Quarter beef: 4-5 cubic feet
How long can I store frozen beef?
Beef can be stored in your freezer for up to 12 months. Your freezer should be set at 0°F or below. Packaging should remain undamaged. If a package gets a tear or hole, use this meat before freezer burn begins. Freezer burn does not mean your meat is not good to eat, but will be dry. Trim away any freezer burned portions before cooking.
Do you deliver?
We deliver throughout most of the state of Texas. There is a fee based on distance.
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