Infographic: What Do I Get When I Buy a Market Steer from an Auction or Fair?

Purchasing a market steer at an auction or fair can be a rewarding experience, but many buyers wonder exactly how much meat they will receive from the processor. Understanding the journey from live steer to packaged cuts of meat is helpful in managing expectations. In order to help convey this to buyers at auctions and fairs we created the below informational graphic to share that clearly conveys the expected variables of the process of live animal to finished cuts.

 

 

Market steers typically weigh between 1,200 and 1,400 pounds depending on breed, weight limits at the auction or fair and age of the animal. However, that weight does not transfer directly into usable meat. When the steer is processed, the carcass weight, also known as the hanging weight, is generally 60-62% of the live weight.

The carcass is then broken down into retail cuts, such as steaks, roasts, ground beef, and other consumable products.  The final yield of packaged meat, referred to as the “cut-out” weight, is typically around 60-65% of the hanging weight.

The amount and type of cuts you receive depend on how the meat is processed and in some cases your preferences. Some buyers opt for more steaks and fewer roasts, while others prioritize ground beef. Additionally, bones, fat, and other trimmings are removed during processing, affecting the final yield.

When budgeting for a market steer, remember to factor in processing fees, which vary by butcher. While buying a market steer can be an investment, it provides a significant supply of high-quality meat, often with the added benefit of supporting local youth in 4-H or FFA programs. Purchasing a market animal is an excellent way to stock your freezer while directly connecting to local agriculture that supports your community. To learn more please reach out to your local Extension office. For a pdf copy of the informational graphic please visit this link

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Posted: January 13, 2025


Category: 4-H & Youth, Agriculture, , Events, Livestock, UF/IFAS Extension
Tags: Market Steer


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