Pasture-raised, grain-fed
Antibiotic-free, no added growth hormones
All-natural beef
Pasture-raised AND grain-fed beef - the best of both worlds!
At our third-generation family farm in northwest Illinois, we raise our beef with care and commitment to quality. Our cattle graze on green pastures, supplemented with quality hay during the winter months. We also feed them corn that we plant, grow, and harvest ourselves, ensuring complete control over their diet.
We never use antibiotics or added growth hormones, so you can trust that your family is getting the same premium beef we proudly serve to our own. Experience the difference of wholesome, responsibly raised beef from our family to yours.
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There are many beef breeds. For three generations, our family has raised Hereford beef. Herefords are known for being mild-mannered and even-tempered. They can easily adapt to native grasses and are hardy for our extreme northwest winters.
The Angus association has spent a lot of money to market their beef as premium, and Americans tend to buy into it (no pun intended). We don’t differentiate breeds for any other protein other than beef. For example, we don’t specify what breed of chicken we buy and eat, or what breed of lamb, so why do we do that for beef?
To find out more about Herefords, visit hereford.org.
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How old is the animal?
The age of the animal impacts the flavor and tenderness. Typically the younger the animal, the more flavorful and tender. Because we do not implant our cattle with growth hormones, it takes a little longer for them to be ready for processing. The average age of our animals going to the processor are 15-18 months of age.
Will it be processed in a state-inspected facility?
Yes, your beef will be processed and inspected by the USDA. We do not do any on-farm processing.
Who is the processor, and will I be able to choose my cuts?
We use Johnson’s Processing in Chadwick, IL. You will work with them to specify the cuts and packaging you would like. You’re essentially making your own butcher box.
Does the price include processing?
Our price does not include processing. You pay us for the beef, and you pay the processor for processing. So, you’re paying us to get a live and healthy animal to the processor, and after that, your contact will be the processor. You’re paying us for our specialty, and you’re paying the processor for their specialty.
When can I buy beef from you?
We make yearly appointments with the processor at the end of every year and post them on our website and Facebook page. We base our appointments on the very limited availability of beef and the processor’s availability. We are not a large feedlot, and we hand-raise a certain number of animals yearly, usually less than 15. Our reservation/deposit system is first-come, first-served. Your non-refundable deposit reserves your order of quarter, half, or whole beef for a specific date.
Do you have a waitlist?
Absolutely! If you would like to be contacted for availability, we would be more than happy to contact you. Please send us an email to be put on the waitlist.
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How do you decipher amongst all the marketing mumbo jumbo and food scare tactics?
Ask a farmer! We have nothing to hide. Our family is concerned about the same things your family is concerned about when it comes to feeding your family: taste, nutrition, value, and food safety. We want to eat the same high-quality beef you want your family to eat.
Have a question - just ask! Email or call us
For more information, check out these resources:
DECODING THE LABEL: KNOW YOUR BEEF CHOICES
Michelle Miller, aka Farm Babe, has a plethora of fact-based articles. Read more
Check Availability
We have standing year-round appointments at the processor.