Are you wondering about the cost of buying a whole cow? Curious how it compares to purchasing beef from your local grocery store? At ManMade Cattle, we’re here to break down the costs, explain our pricing, and show you why buying a whole cow is often a better option than relying on supermarket meat.
The Real Cost of a Whole Cow
When you purchase a whole cow from ManMade Cattle, you’re investing in:
- High-quality, farm-raised beef
- A variety of cuts for all your cooking needs
- Transparency in your food source
- Support for local agriculture
Our current price is $6.50 per pound of hanging weight. Here’s what that means for different purchase options:
Whole Cow Cost
- Average hanging weight: 600 lbs
- Total cost: 600 lbs x $6.50 = $3,900
- Expected packaged meat: 300-360 lbs
Half Cow Cost
- Average hanging weight: 300 lbs
- Total cost: 300 lbs x $6.50 = $1,950
- Expected packaged meat: 150-180 lbs
Quarter Cow Cost
- Average hanging weight: 150 lbs
- Total cost: 150 lbs x $6.50 = $975
- Expected packaged meat: 75-90 lbs
Note: Price is subject to change based on feed costs. Processing fees are included in our pricing.
Is It Cheaper to Buy a Whole Cow?
When considering whether to buy a whole cow, the question of cost savings is often at the forefront of many consumers’ minds. Let’s dive into a detailed cost comparison between purchasing a whole cow and buying beef from your local grocery store.
The True Cost of Convenience
At first glance, the upfront cost of a whole cow might seem steep. However, when you break down the price per pound, the savings become apparent. Let’s look at some real numbers:
- At Walmart, as of today, a ribeye steak costs $18.97 per pound.
- A New York strip steak at Walmart is priced at $13.97 per pound.
Now, compare this to buying a whole cow from ManMade Cattle at $6.50 per pound of hanging weight. Even accounting for the yield loss from hanging weight to packaged meat, you’re still paying significantly less per pound, even for these premium cuts.
Premium Cuts at Ground Beef Prices
One of the most compelling reasons to buy a whole cow is the opportunity to enjoy premium cuts at a fraction of their retail cost. Imagine savoring a tender ribeye steak, knowing you paid less than half the Walmart price. This alone can lead to substantial savings for beef enthusiasts.
What You Get from a Whole Cow
When you purchase a whole cow, you’re not just getting steaks. Here’s a typical breakdown of what you might expect from a whole cow:
- Ground beef: Usually about 25-30% of the total yield, or 75-90 lbs from a 300 lb yield
- Steaks (including ribeye, New York strip, sirloin, etc.): About 25-30% of the total yield
- Roasts (chuck, rump, sirloin tip, etc.): About 20-25% of the total yield
- Other cuts (brisket, short ribs, stew meat, etc.): The remaining 15-20%
This variety ensures you’re getting a wide range of cuts to suit different meals and preferences, all at the same price per pound.
Bulk Buying Benefits
By purchasing a whole cow, you’re essentially buying in bulk. This wholesale approach to meat shopping can lead to considerable savings over time. With 300-360 lbs of packaged meat from a whole cow, you’re stocking your freezer with high-quality beef at a fraction of the retail cost.
Quality That Pays for Itself
While the cost per pound is often lower when buying a whole cow, the quality of the meat is typically superior to what you’ll find in most grocery stores. This means you’re not just saving money – you’re also investing in better taste, texture, and potentially higher nutritional value.
Hidden Savings: Time and Fuel
Consider the time and fuel costs associated with regular trips to the grocery store. By purchasing a whole cow, you significantly reduce these expenses. Fewer shopping trips mean less time spent in traffic and less money spent on gas – savings that add up over time.
Customization Without Extra Costs
When buying from a grocery store, specific cuts or custom processing often come with premium prices. With a whole cow purchase, customization is typically included in the price. You can specify your preferred cuts and processing methods without incurring additional fees.
Long-Term Budget Benefits
Buying a whole cow allows for better long-term budget planning. With your freezer stocked with a variety of cuts, you can more accurately predict and control your meat expenses for several months. This predictability can be a significant advantage for families looking to manage their food budgets effectively.
Environmental Cost Considerations
While not a direct monetary saving, buying a whole cow often means supporting local farms and reducing the environmental impact associated with long-distance meat transportation. This eco-friendly approach can lead to indirect savings by promoting sustainable farming practices in your community.
Understanding Whole Cow Pricing
At ManMade Cattle, we price our beef based on the “hanging weight” of the cow. Here’s a breakdown:
- Live Weight: What the cow weighs when alive (typically 1,000-1,200 pounds)
- Hanging Weight: Weight of the processed carcass (60-65% of live weight)
- Packaged Weight: The meat you take home (50-60% of hanging weight)
Our price of $6.50 per pound is based on hanging weight, and includes processing fees.
What You Need to Know When Buying a Whole Cow
- Storage: Ensure you have adequate freezer space (18-22 cubic feet for a whole cow)
- Cut Sheet: You’ll receive a cut sheet to customize your cuts
- Yield: Expect 300-360 lbs of packaged meat from a whole cow
- Variety: You’ll get everything from premium steaks to ground beef
The Verdict: Cost-Effective Quality
In conclusion, while buying a whole cow requires a larger upfront investment, the long-term savings are substantial. Let’s break it down one last time:
- Ribeye at Walmart: $18.97/lb
- New York Strip at Walmart: $13.97/lb
- Whole cow from ManMade Cattle: $6.50/lb hanging weight (approximately $10-12/lb for packaged meat)
Even if you only compared the price of ground beef, which makes up a significant portion of your yield, you’re still saving. And when you factor in the premium cuts you’re getting at this price, the savings become even more apparent.
Ready to experience the savings and quality of buying a whole cow? Contact ManMade Cattle today to learn more about our pricing and options. Your journey to better beef and better value starts here!
