Y'all, it's time to talk beef and freezers! Here at MG Cattle Co., we're all about delivering you the freshest, highest-quality beef right to your doorstep, with a side of that independent spirit.
We reckon that buying beef straight from us, the source, not only gives you a superior product but also a story to tell at your next barbecue. So, let’s dive into what you need to know about storing your beef, whether you’re going for a quarter cow, half a cow, or a whole cow orders.
Quarter Beef Share
Starting with a quarter cow, this is perfect for small families or those with modest freezer space. A quarter cow typically weighs in at around 80-100 pounds of meat. Now, in terms of freezer real estate, you'll need approximately 4 cubic feet of space. Think of a standard top-freezer refrigerator; the freezer compartment of that bad boy should be just about right for a quarter cow. If that side compartment is usually filled with other frozen items, then we would suggest a stand alone 4 cubic freezer similar to the ones find in the link below.
Great fit for a garage or pantry area! You’ll be getting a mix of everything – ground beef for your burgers, steaks for your grill, and roasts to slow cook on a lazy Sunday.
Half Beef Share
Now, if you’re feeling a bit more cowboy and have a larger posse to feed, a half cow might be more your style. A half cow can give you about 200-250 pounds of meat. You'll need to rustle up about 8 cubic feet of freezer space for this one. That's roughly equivalent to a chest freezer that's about 5 feet long.
We recommend the Half Cow and above for groups or families that have prior experience with long-term meat storage and have the space, and stomachs, to get the most out of their order.
Full Beef Share
For the true cattle baron, a full cow is the way to go. This will get you around 400-500 pounds of beef. Y'all are going to need a freezer that’s at least 16 cubic feet – think of a freezer that's as long as a small canoe. With a full cow, you or your organization are fully stocked with ground beef, steaks, roasts, and more, ensuring you’re prepared for any occasion, from impromptu family gatherings to full-blown Texas-sized parties.
Storing Practices
Now, let’s talk a bit about proper storing practices to keep your beef in tip-top shape. First off, temperature is key – your freezer should be set at 0°F (-18°C) to ensure your beef stays fresh and flavorful. Secondly, packaging matters. Your beef will be received in a vacuum-sealed or tightly wrapped packaging to prevent freezer burn and maintain its quality. We also recommend keep an inventory of what you have, and use a first-in, first-out system to ensure you’re enjoying your beef at its best.
Temperature Control: Ensure your freezer is at a steady 0°F (-18°C) to keep the beef fresh and tasty.
Inventory Management: Keep a list of what you have and when it was stored. Label each package with the cut and freeze date.
Rotation System: Implement a first-in, first-out system to use the oldest meat first and enjoy optimum quality.
Regular Checks: Periodically check your freezer for any signs of frost buildup or temperature fluctuations and address them promptly.
At the MG Cattle Co., we’re not just about selling you beef, we’re about providing a wholesome experience that respects our Texas ranching heritage and honors the independence we choose with directly sourced, pasture raised meat. Remember, whether you opt for a quarter, half, or a full cow, having the right refrigeration space and storage practices is key to enjoying your beef to the fullest.