Ordering Beef
How can I buy beef from Nieder Farms?
We sell our steers by the quarter. You can buy one quarter, one half, three quarters, or a full steer. To place an order, email us at niederfarms@gmail.com or send us a message on our @niederfarms Instagram channel.
We pre-book processing appointments throughout the year, which means we have a limited number of steers to sell during each processing. To hold your steer, we require a $50 nonrefundable deposit per quarter. This deposit is deducted from your total order at the time of processing.
How does pricing work?
We base our prices on the hanging weight of the steer from our processor partners. You’ll pay Nieder Farms for your portion of the steer (e.g. one quarter), and then pay the processor their fee directly. To hold your steer, we require a $50 nonrefundable deposit per quarter.
Nieder Farms charges $2.95/lb per hanging weight, depending on market fluctuations (e.g. prices fluctuations for feed, gas, etc.). Our steers typically average 1,000 pounds when they’re ready for processing. Remember, weights can fluctuate, but the example below is how pricing typically breaks down for one quarter of beef, on average:
Live Weight* (+~1000 lbs) = +-600 lbs hanging weight for a full steer. 1/4 steer = 150 lbs hanging weight.
150 lbs x $2.95/lb = $442.50
Processing for 1/4 of beef is on average $150-$200.
In the end, you’ll pay around $575-$650 for approximately 90-125 pounds of beef, and the cuts of your choosing.
When we drop off your steer at the processor, they will give us the hanging weight. Then, we’ll call you to share that number, and charge you for the hanging weight. Your $50 deposit will be deducted from this total. From there, you’ll work directly with the processor to discuss your preferred cuts and pick up times. You’ll pay the processor directly for their fee.
How much beef will I receive?
Remember that we’re selling live animals, so weight won’t be exact for each order. For context though, our steers typically weigh an average of 1,000 pounds - live weight - before they’re ready for processing. This means that if you order a quarter, you should expect anywhere from 90-125 pounds of beef.
How does processing work? Can I choose my cuts?
We work with local Missouri processors, and schedule processing dates with them throughout the year. On processing days, we take two to four steers to the processor. Each steer has a numbered tag, which is how we and the processor can tell them apart. When you place your order, we assign you a specific steer, and share your contact information with the processor when we drop off your steer.
The processor weighs your steer, and then calls you to discuss how you’d like your beef cut. The processor will explain which cuts are available to you and walk you through the process. Once your beef is ready, the processor will call you and you will pick up your beef from them directly.
Which processors do you use?
At this time, we use two local processors: Oak Hill Processing (2141 Highway CC, Cuba, MO 65453) and Lyon Country Meats (4636 Highway 185, New Haven, MO 63068).
If you require USDA or MMPIP inspected beef (only necessary for retail or restaurants), please request Oak Hill Processing. Please note that USDA inspection will require additional processing fees.
How do cuts work for a quarter of a steer?
Quarters are taken along the middle (e.g. spine) of the steer. This means you’ll have the option of a variety of cuts steaks, roasts, and ground beef. You aren’t receiving only the front or back half of a steer.
How long does it take to receive my beef?
It takes about two to three weeks for your order to be ready from the date we drop off your steer. The processor will call you to pick it up when it’s ready.
How should I store my beef?
Your beef will be frozen when you pick it up at the processor. You should keep it frozen until you’re ready to thaw and cook it. Frozen beef will be safe indefinitely. However for the best quality we recommend you use it within 4-12 months.
I don’t live in Missouri. Can I still order from you?
We don’t currently ship beef orders out of state. If you are out of state but still interested in ordering, please reach out to us on Instagram or via email and we’d be happy to chat.
What does it mean to be a regenerative farm?
Being a regenerative farm means that we focus on improving soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and creating resilient ecosystems through practices like rotational grazing and diversity. Our approach includes pasture-raised chickens and a new orchard (planted this year), which promotes natural cycles that reduce the need for synthetic inputs and enhance the land's productivity. This holistic management not only sustains our farm but also restores and revitalizes the environment for future generations.