Content by Christina Bakker

Picking the Perfect Steak
As grilling season is getting into full swing, many grillers are in search of the perfect steak. Whether you prefer flavor, tenderness or marbling, learn some expert tips to select a steak that's right for you!

Backgrounding Beef Calves on Cover Crops May Improve Steak Tenderness
Can short-term backgrounding diets of beef calves have long term impacts of meat quality? Recent research from the meat science team at South Dakota State University says, “Yes.”

Why does beef from the store taste different than the beef from my local butcher?
Grain or grass-finished? Wet or dry-aged? Learn the factors that influence the flavor profiles of meat products found at local butcher shops and grocery stores.

Don't Go Bacon My Heart
How much do most consumers really know about bacon? Let’s explore some bacon basics to help you understand this delicious product.

Beef Carcass Yield Grades: What do they mean and how are they calculated?
Beef carcass yield grades are used to estimate cutability, which is the amount of boneless, closely trimmed retail cuts from the round, loin, rib and chuck a carcass will yield.

Tips for Purchasing and Preparing Turkey, Ham and Prime Rib
From turkey to prime rib, let’s look at some things to consider before you sink your teeth into your next holiday meal.

Guide for Purchasing Freezer Beef, Pork and Lamb
Purchasing meat directly from farmers and ranchers has become a prominent consumer trend. This article focuses on purchasing a beef animal, pig or lamb to stock your freezer.

Meat (Not) For Sale
Before buying meat from local livestock producers, take the time to understand the rules and regulations of local meat processing.

So, You Want to Build a Meat Processing Facility? Five Initial Steps to Consider
The need for more small meat processing capacity and skilled workers is not a new problem facing rural America. No matter the reason for wanting to build, here are some steps to consider before diving in.

At-Home Hog Slaughter
One option to address supply chain disruptions is to butcher pigs at home.