Buying Meat Directly from Local Farmers
Purchasing meat directly from local farmers ensures higher quality, fresher taste, and ethically sourced products while supporting small-scale agriculture. Here’s how you can do it:
- Find a trusted local farm through local directories, CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs, or farmers’ markets.
- Choose your purchasing method—whether it’s subscribing to a CSA or ordering in bulk** (quarter, half, or whole animal).
- Learn about the farm’s practices—including how the animals are raised, what they are fed, and whether antibiotics or hormones are used. Genuine Food Company follows the highest ethical standards.
- Place your order online or directly with the farmer and arrange for pickup or delivery. See our bulk meat options.
- Store your meat properly to maintain freshness and maximize quality.
At Genuine Food Company, we make this process seamless, offering grass-fed, pasture-raised beef and pasture-raised pork through bulk orders, CSA memberships, and direct online purchases. Lamb is available seasonally.
Why Learning About Farming Practices Matters
When buying locally, understanding how farms operate is crucial to promoting healthier meat and supporting ethical agriculture. Key factors to consider:
- What are the animals fed? Grass-fed and pasture-raised livestock produce meat that is higher in Omega-3 fatty acids and free of artificial additives.
- Are antibiotics or hormones used? Many industrial farms rely on antibiotics for growth, while Genuine Food Company ensures all meat is antibiotic- and hormone-free.
- How are the animals treated? Ethically raised animals lead to better quality meat and a more sustainable food system. Genuine Food Company’s standards prioritize animal welfare and sustainable practices.
- What is the farm’s environmental impact? Locally sourced meat reduces transportation emissions and supports sustainable farming techniques.
Supporting farms that align with these values ensures you are getting the highest quality product while contributing to a better food system.
Handling Your Meat & Additional Tips
4. Ordering and Receiving Your Meat
Once you’ve selected your preferred bulk order, it’s time to place an order. Options include:
- Ordering online through a farm’s website or directly from a trusted supplier. Genuine Food Company provides a seamless ordering process.
- Choosing between pickup and delivery—some farms allow farm visits, while others, like Genuine Food Company, offer convenient delivery across Baltimore County and Harford County, Maryland.
- Confirming processing and packaging preferences—you may be able to request vacuum-sealed packaging for longer storage life.
For general food safety guidelines, you can refer to the USDA Meat and Poultry Guidelines.
5. How to Store Meat for Long-Term Use
Proper storage techniques help retain the quality and freshness of your grass-fed beef and pasture-raised pork. Follow these guidelines:
- Refrigeration: Fresh meat should be used within 3-5 days. Store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.
- Freezing: If storing meat long-term, vacuum-seal it to avoid freezer burn. Properly sealed beef and pork can last up to 12 months.
- Label and date all meat packages to track freshness.
- Defrosting safely: Always thaw meat in the refrigerator, not at room temperature, to maintain food safety.
For best practices in food storage, consult the FDA’s guide on food safety.
6. Cooking Tips for Farm-Fresh Meat
Farm-fresh, grass-fed beef and pasture-raised pork require different cooking techniques than conventional meat. Follow these best practices:
- Use lower heat and shorter cooking times—grass-fed meat is leaner and can dry out faster.
- Let meat rest before slicing—this allows juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender cut.
- Marinate to enhance tenderness—using oil-based marinades can help retain moisture.
- Avoid overcooking—for best flavor and texture, medium-rare to medium is ideal for beef, while pork should be cooked to at least 145°F.
For additional cooking tips, you can refer to Beef Checkoff’s cooking guide.
Explore delicious recipes designed for farm-fresh meats:
Join The Genuine Food Family
Buying meat from local farmers ensures superior quality, freshness, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking for bulk orders, CSA memberships, or direct-to-doorstep delivery, Genuine Food Company makes it simple and convenient to enjoy farm-fresh meat year-round.
Make the switch today and enjoy the benefits of locally sourced, ethically raised meat!