Where to Buy Grass Fed and Grass Finished Beef Near Me: The Ultimate Guide

Interest in grass fed and grass finished beef has exploded in recent years as more consumers learn about the health and environmental benefits. However, finding 100% grass fed beef locally can be challenging. This guide will cover where you can source grass fed grass finished beef close to home.

Why Grass Fed/Grass Finished Matters

There are important differences between conventional grain fed feedlot beef and 100% grass fed and grass finished beef:

• Nutrition – Grass fed beef is higher in omega-3s, CLA, vitamins A and E, and antioxidants. It has a better fatty acid profile.

• Animal Welfare – Grass feeding allows cattle to graze naturally versus being confined in crowded feedlots.

• Sustainability – Grass finished beef promotes soil health, sequesters carbon, and reduces dependence on grains.

• Antibiotics – Grass fed cattle are never given antibiotics or hormones.

For these reasons, more consumers want local sources of verified grass fed and grass finished beef. But finding it can be tricky…

Where to Buy Grass Fed Beef Near Me

Here are tips on locating 100% grass fed and grass finished beef close to home:

Local Butcher Shops

Many local butcher shops now offer grass fed beef due to customer demand. Ask your neighborhood butcher if they source grass finished beef. Some even work directly with local farms. Buying from a butcher supports small business too.

Farmer’s Markets

Farmer’s markets are a great source of locally raised meats. Ask vendors if they have grass fed beef or connect you with farms they source from. Availability may be seasonal.

CSAs and Buying Clubs

Join a CSA (community supported agriculture) program that offers grass fed beef shares. You pay upfront and receive a monthly allotment of cuts. Buying clubs work similarly by collectively purchasing whole animals.

Online Buying Clubs

Several online services help you order grass fed beef in bulk from farms nationwide, then deliver to pick-up locations. Tasty choices include:

• ButcherBox
• Crowd Cow
• Thrive Market
• US Wellness Meats

Local Farms

Search for family owned farms in your state that sell grass fed beef. Many have online stores and ship frozen beef or offer pick-up. Delivery options vary.

Co-ops

Join a regional co-op that aggregates grass fed beef from multiple small member farms. Products ship frozen to your door. Examples include:

• Wisconsin Meadows
• Grass Roots Co-op
• Pasture Prime

Grocery Stores

Even some grocery store chains now carry grass finished beef, often from regional suppliers. Check labels for “100% grass fed/grass finished.” Availability and cost vary by location.

What to Look For When Buying Grass Fed Beef

When sourcing grass fed beef locally, look for these indicators of quality:

• 100% Grass Fed and Grass Finished – This means the cattle eat grass their entire lives after weaning, not just during one stage.

• Pasture Raised – Not just grass fed but specifically pasture/grazing based. Ask about farming methods.

• Animal Welfare Approved – Indicates humane handling practices are used.

• No Antibiotics/Hormones – Cattle should never receive these growth promoters.

• Small Local Farm – Support sustainable family farms in your area.

• Transparency – Look for complete traceability back to the farm.

Buying locally sourced grass fed and grass finished beef ensures you get high-quality meat and support farmers in your community.

Grass Fed Beef Buying Tips

Follow these tips for buying grass fed beef:

• Buy in bulk when possible. Buying a quarter, half, or whole animal is most cost effective.

• Split bulk orders with friends if you lack freezer space.

• Ask about preferred steak thickness and fat trim. Customize your cuts.

• Inquire about delivery fees and logistics. Understand all costs upfront.

• Think ahead about special occasions and stock up for holidays.

• Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions! Farmers should be transparent.

Is Grass Fed Beef Worth It?

At around $6-12/lb on average, grass fed beef costs more than conventional beef from the grocery store. But many feel the extra cost is worthwhile:

Taste – The complex, rich flavor of grass fed beef is prized by beef connoisseurs.

Health – The added nutritional benefits make it a smart choice for health-minded buyers.

Sustainability – Eco-conscious consumers like supporting regenerative agriculture.

Ethics – Animal welfare and small family farms are priorities for most grass fed beef fans.

While not cheap, grass fed beef satisfies on many levels while supporting local farmers. Ultimately it’s a personal choice based on your budget and values.

Storing and Cooking Grass Fed Beef

Follow these tips for storing and cooking your grass fed beef:

• Freeze promptly in airtight packaging for maximum freshness if not using immediately. Freeze up to 9-12 months.

• Thaw safely in the refrigerator, never at room temp. Place frozen cuts on a tray to catch drips.

• Cook thoroughly to at least 145°F internal temperature, allowing extra time for thick cuts. Use a meat thermometer.

• Avoid overcooking to prevent drying out the naturally lean meat. Grass fed beef cooks faster.

• Use moist cooking methods like braising, stewing, or sous vide. Slow cook tough cuts like brisket.

• Enhance flavor via marinades, rubs and spice crusts. Grass fed beef loves bold flavors.

With proper handling, grass fed beef will deliver unmatched flavor and nutrition for your family.

Grass Fed Beef for Health and Sustainability

Between the nutritional benefits, ethical farming practices, and premium taste, grass fed and grass finished beef hits all the right notes for discerning modern consumers. Seek out local sources to enjoy meat raised right in your neighborhood. The extra effort provides quality you can feel good about.