Templeton Farm
East Montpelier
★5.0(12)Local beef supplier in East Montpelier, Vermont. Contact them directly for current availability and pricing on bulk beef purchases.
2 local suppliers selling bulk beef in the East Montpelier area. Prices in Vermont typically range $11.00-15.00/lb per pound.
Fall harvest (September-December) is optimal when cattle have grazed lush summer pastures. Book 6-12 months in advance - Vermont has severe processing bottlenecks. The dairy-to-beef transition means some availability year-round from dairy operations culling or finishing steers.
East Montpelier
★5.0(12)Local beef supplier in East Montpelier, Vermont. Contact them directly for current availability and pricing on bulk beef purchases.
East Montpelier
★4.9(10)Local beef supplier in East Montpelier, Vermont. Contact them directly for current availability and pricing on bulk beef purchases.
Vermont's dairy heritage is your friend for beef buying. Holstein steers from dairy operations often produce exceptionally marbled beef at lower prices than beef breeds. The state's strong 'Buy Local' culture means farmers markets and farm stands are excellent sources for finding producers. Ask about 'cull cows' from dairy farms - they're often ground beef deals.
A half cow in Vermont costs $2,600-3,600 total - premium pricing reflects the state's quality reputation and limited supply. Expect $5.50-8.50/lb hanging weight depending on breed and production method. Add $100 slaughter share and $1.30/lb processing. Take-home yield is about 200-230 lbs, making effective cost $11-15/lb.
Vermont's premium reflects three factors: (1) strong 'Buy Local' culture supports quality over volume, (2) limited farmland and processing capacity restrict supply, (3) the Boston/New York market proximity creates demand for premium products. The trade-off is exceptional quality and traceability.
Yes - Vermont's dairy heritage means Holstein steers are commonly finished for beef. Due to dairy genetics, these animals often marble better than beef breeds, potentially grading Choice or Prime. They typically cost 15-25% less than beef breeds. Ask dairy farmers about finishing steers or purchasing cull cows for ground beef value.
Vermont has strong local food infrastructure. Start with farmers markets (Burlington, Montpelier), local food co-ops, or the Vermont Fresh Network directory. The Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA-VT) lists certified producers. Many farms maintain waiting lists for bulk beef - sign up early.