How Beef Shares Work: Save Money and Eat Better

Buying beef at the grocery store can be expensive, unpredictable, and often disappointing in quality. That’s why more people are turning to beef shares—a smarter, cost-effective way to stock up on high-quality, locally raised beef while supporting family-run farms. At Crown H Cattle Company in Etna, CA, we offer quarter, half, and whole beef shares, providing families with an affordable and convenient way to enjoy premium beef all year long.

If you’ve ever wondered how beef shares work, this guide will explain the process, the benefits, and why buying a beef share is one of the best decisions you can make for your wallet, your health, and your taste buds.

a visual comparison of cows shaded in according to the amount you receive per share

What is a Beef Share?

A beef share is when you purchase a portion of a whole cow directly from a local farm. Instead of buying individual cuts of beef at the store, you get a quarter, half, or whole cow—custom-cut, packaged, and frozen—ready to be stored in your freezer.

Beef shares are ideal for families, home cooks, and anyone who wants to enjoy farm-to-table beef at a fraction of the grocery store price. Not only do you save money, but you also get a variety of cuts, from premium steaks to roasts, ground beef, and more.

How Much Beef Do You Get in a Share?

The amount of beef you receive depends on the size of the share you purchase:

  • Quarter Beef Share (~100-130 lbs of beef) – Ideal for small families or individuals with limited freezer space.

  • Half Beef Share (~200-260 lbs of beef) – A great choice for families who cook beef regularly.

  • Whole Beef Share (~400-520 lbs of beef) – The best value for larger families or those who want a full range of beef cuts.

All our Belted Galloway beef shares are processed by artisan butchers, ensuring you get the highest quality cuts with optimal flavor.

Why Buying a Beef Share Saves You Money

One of the biggest advantages of purchasing a beef share is the cost savings. Grocery store beef prices fluctuate based on supply chain issues, processing fees, and middlemen markups. When you buy a beef share, you’re getting premium-quality beef at a bulk price, cutting out the grocery store markup.

Here’s how you save:

Lower cost per pound – Beef shares typically cost less per pound than buying individual cuts at the store.
No hidden fees – You’re paying for the beef and the processing, not additional packaging and branding costs.
Fewer grocery trips – With a stocked freezer, you’ll spend less time and money shopping for meat each week.

Better Beef, Better Nutrition

Beef shares aren’t just a great deal—they’re also a healthier choice. When you buy from a local, family-run farm like Crown H Cattle Company, you know exactly where your meat comes from and how it was raised.

Our Belted Galloway cattle are:

🥩 Grass-fed and pasture-raised, resulting in beef that’s leaner and higher in omega-3s.
🥩 Hormone and antibiotic-free, meaning no unnecessary chemicals in your food.
🥩 Processed locally and humanely, ensuring top quality and ethical farming practices.

In contrast, grocery store beef is often mass-produced, grain-fed, and treated with preservatives to extend shelf life. With local beef shares, you’re getting fresher, healthier, and better-tasting meat.

How to Order a Beef Share

Ordering a beef share is simple:

  1. Choose Your Share Size – Decide if a quarter, half, or whole cow best fits your needs.

  2. Reserve Your Share – Place a deposit to secure your order.

  3. Customize Your Cuts – Work with the butcher to select your preferred cuts and packaging.

  4. Pick Up or Get It Delivered – Once processed, your beef will be ready for pickup or shipped directly to you.

With our Belted Galloway beef shares, you get custom-cut beef, vacuum-sealed for freshness, and labeled for easy storage and meal planning.

Is a Beef Share Right for You?

If you love high-quality beef, want to save money, and value knowing where your food comes from, then a beef share is a perfect option. Whether you’re a steak lover, a meal prepper, or just looking for a reliable source of farm-fresh beef, buying in bulk ensures you’ll always have top-quality meat on hand.

At Crown H Cattle Company, we make it easy to enjoy premium beef from a trusted, family-run ranch.

 

 
tan crossed butcher knives

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The Benefits of Grass-Fed Beef from a Small Family Farm

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How to Choose the Best Beef—Just Like You Choose Your Wine