If you’ve been keeping an eye on grocery store prices, you’ve probably noticed that beef costs more than it did a year ago, and more than a year before that. From supermarket shelves to small family farms like ours, the price of raising and selling beef is climbing. But why?
At Creamery Creek, we’re committed to transparency, so let’s break down what’s happening in the beef industry, why it’s affecting our farm, and what it means for you as a customer.
What’s Driving Up Beef Prices?
Here's the scoop, several key factors are making beef more expensive across the country:
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Drought & Feed Costs – Many cattle-producing regions have been hit by drought, which means less grass for grazing. Farmers have to buy more hay and grain to feed their herds, and those costs have skyrocketed. Corn and soybean meal—two major components of cattle feed—are up significantly in price.
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Processing & Labor Costs – The cost of processing beef has risen due to higher wages, stricter regulations, and increased energy costs at processing plants. Smaller, independent processors like the ones we use are especially affected. I'm expecting two price increases this year.
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Supply & Demand – Over the last few years, national cattle herds have shrunk due to ranchers selling off animals during droughts or economic downturns. With fewer cattle available, beef supply is tight, which drives prices higher. We're raising more of our own calves every year, but demand for our beef is also growing so we partner with neighboring farms that have the same high quality standards for raising cattle as we do. We purchase these animals after weaning - meaning they've been on pasture nursing their mother for about 500lbs then they move to our pasture for our finishing program.
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Fuel & Transportation – Every step of beef production, from raising cattle to processing, packaging, and shipping, depends on transportation. Fuel prices affect everything, and as they rise, so do the costs of getting beef from our farm to the locker and back, then out to your door.
Why Creamery Creek’s Prices Are Changing
As a small family farm, we absorb fluctuating costs as much as we can. But when feed, processing, and shipping costs all increase together, we eventually have to adjust our pricing too. Our goal is always to provide high-quality, dry-aged beef while remaining fair and sustainable for both our customers and our farm.
We know that grocery store beef doesn’t compare to what we offer—our cattle are raised with care, dry-aged for superior flavor, and hand-selected for quality. But we also know that price increases aren’t easy for anyone, and we’re committed to being upfront about why they happen.
How to Make the Most of Your Beef Purchases
Here are a few ways to stretch your beef budget while still enjoying premium dry-aged beef:
- Try Different Cuts – Ground beef, roasts, and budget-friendly steaks like sirloin or chuck eye offer incredible flavor at a lower cost than premium cuts. The nutritional benefits of beef is the same no matter what the cut. My friends at Wisconsin Beef Council say ZIP - same Zinc, Iron and Protein no matter the beef cut!
- Stock Up During Sales – When we run occasional specials on beef boxes or bulk options, it’s a great time to fill your freezer. Our bulk ground beef options are perfect for lower pricing.
- Consider a Subscription – Our CreekClub subscription boxes offer high-quality beef at a locked-in price, helping you plan meals and save over time.
Thank You for Supporting Small Farms
We appreciate each and every customer who chooses to support our farm. When you buy from Creamery Creek, you’re not just getting incredible beef—you’re investing in local agriculture, ethical farming, and a business that values quality over quantity.
If you have any questions about our beef pricing or upcoming specials, we’re always happy to chat! Let’s keep making great meals together.
XO,
Louisa