ABOUT OUR GRASS FED GRAIN FINISHED BEEF
How are the steers raised?
Our steers receive thorough care throughout their stay with us, as we live on the premises and dedicate significant time to their well-being. They remain with their mothers for the first 5 to 6 months, enjoying a diet that includes milk, commodity feed, grass, and hay, along with the occasional treat. Once they are at least 120 days away from processing, they are moved to spacious, high-quality pastures where their feed intake is increased to enhance the flavor, fat content, and marbling of the meat.
What does grass fed grain finished mean?
Here at Mills Horse & Cattle Ranch we specialize in grass-fed grain-finished beef and sustainable ranching practices. Grass fed means all of our cattle graze on large pastures their entire life up until the day of their dispatch, and they are never taken off quality pasture. They are finished on grain at least 120 days prior to processing which adds more marbling and flavor to our beef.
You don't use hormones or antibiotics? What if an animal gets sick?
We are committed to holistic ranching and aim to deliver the highest quality beef. At Mills Horse & Cattle Ranch, we do not use hormones or antibiotics in our beef production. If an animal falls ill and needs antibiotics, we ensure proper treatment and subsequently exclude it from our beef program.
Does grass fed grain finished beef taste differently than "traditional" beef in grocery stores?
Without a doubt! We take great pride in providing our beef, which is guaranteed to be more tender and flavorful than what you find in grocery stores. Our cattle thrive in pastures, living the life they deserve, and are never confined to feedlots. By choosing our beef, you ensure that you are getting meat from a single steer, unlike store-bought ground meat that can come from over 100 different cows.
What is dry aging? How long do you dry age?
Dry aging beef is a process that enhances the flavor and tenderness of the meat, making it a superior choice compared to store-bought options. During dry aging, the beef is stored in a controlled environment, allowing natural enzymes to break down muscle tissue, resulting in a richer, more concentrated flavor profile. This method also reduces moisture content, intensifying the taste and creating a unique texture that is often missing in mass-produced beef. All of our beef is dry aged for at least 14 days.
ABOUT PROCESSING AND PURCHASING
Why purchase beef in bulk from a local rancher?
We offer custom bulk purchases at a lower price than buying individual cuts at a grocery store for two key reasons. First, our custom beef processing is more cost-effective, and second, we reduce the time spent on handling products. This allows you to enjoy steaks at half the price you'd typically find in stores! These savings are directly passed on to you, benefiting both farmers and consumers. You can choose the cuts you want, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. We will provide a detailed cut sheet and can arrange a phone call to customize your order to your liking. Get ready to fill your freezer for months with this convenient, one-time purchase, giving you easy access to high-quality meat. You can trust that your beef comes from a well-cared-for environment at Mills Horse & Cattle Ranch, allowing you to enjoy your meals with confidence. Supporting us means you're also backing a local ranch and business. Each purchase you make directly contributes to feeding our family.
How much does bulk beef cost?
We base our fees on the hanging weight of the steer. Instead of a flat rate fee, you'll be paying for what meat gets processed!
Whole Beef
$6.00/lb hanging weight
Estimated hanging weight 700 - 850lbs
Estimated take home weight 400 - 500lbs
Total price estimate $4,200 - $5,100.
Price includes all care provided for the steer, dispatching fee, custom basic meat processing, packaging (vacuum sealed), and labeling
$1,000 non-refundable deposit required to reserve (deposit goes toward your total cost).
Half Beef
$6.25/lb hanging weight
Estimated hanging weight 350 - 425lbs
Estimated take home weight 200 - 250lbs
Total price estimate $2,200 - $2,700
Price includes all care provided for the steer, dispatching fee, custom basic meat processing, packaging (vacuum sealed), and labeling
$500 non-refundable deposit required to reserve (deposit goes toward your total cost).
Quarter Beef
$6.50/lb hanging weight
Estimated hanging weight 175 - 215lbs
Estimated take home weight 100 - 125lbs
Total price estimate $1,100 - $1,400
Price includes all care provided for the steer, dispatching fee, basic meat processing, packaging (vacuum sealed), and labeling. *1/4 beef do not have custom processing, and will be a predetermined cut list.
$250 non-refundable deposit required to reserve (deposit goes toward your total cost).
1/8th Beef
$6.75/lb hanging weight
Estimated hanging weight 85 - 100lbs
Estimated take home weight 40 - 60lbs
Total price estimate $570 - $675
Price includes all care provided for the steer, dispatching fee, basic meat processing, packaging (vacuum sealed), and labeling. *1/8 beef do not have custom processing, and will be a predetermined cut list.
$125 non-refundable deposit required to reserve (deposit goes toward your total cost).
*Some custom cuts are an additional fee*
Remaining balance will be determined at processing (based off hanging weight) and will be due before pick-up/delivery.
Delivery is available and cost is dependent on location and mileage.
What is hanging weight? Boxed weight?
Hanging weight is determined after the blood, hide, head, and other inedible parts are removed. The hanging weight ranges 55 to 65% of the live weight.
Boxed weight is the net weight of the meat you will receive that is processed and packaged for your freezer. Boxed weight, dependent on your cut list, will be 60 to 70% of the hanging carcass weight.
Is your beef USDA inspected?
Yes, we utilize Panola County Processing, which is completely USDA inspected, ensuring that all meat processed at their facility meets strict quality standards.
How much freezer space do I need?
It can vary dependent on how much beef you’re buying.
Here is a good infographic for how much space you will need.
Whole Beef
1 stand up freezer (24 cu. ft) or large chest freezer
Half Beef
1/2 stand up freezer or medium chest freezer
Quarter Beef
1/4 stand up freezer, fridge freezer, or half of a medium chest freezer
What does delivery include?
This service encompasses the care and feeding of the animal, along with the processing and packaging. Please note that certain specialty cuts or processing may involve an extra charge.
When is payment due?
A non-refundable deposit is required to reserve your 1/8th, quarter, half, or whole beef. The remaining balance is due before pick-up.
Is the cut sheet customizable?
Beef purchases, whether half or whole, offer complete customization options. While the standard cut list is included in the pricing, requesting specialty cuts or additional processing may result in extra charges. We can arrange a phone call to discuss and finalize your cut list, ensuring it meets your specific requirements perfectly.
On the other hand, 1/8th and quarter beef come with a fixed cut list that cannot be customized.