For beef lovers, the farm-to-table movement represents a transparent approach to meat production, ensuring the animals are raised humanely while maintaining high-quality standards.
The process begins with careful breeding. We select cattle breeds known for their adaptability, health, and meat quality - like marbling and tenderness. Cattle farmers often work with genetic experts to ensure our steers possess traits that support good health and efficient growth.
Natural breeding or artificial insemination methods are used to pair cows and bulls with complementary traits. Like people, cows are pregnant for about 9 months. During the gestation stage, we prioritize animal welfare by providing ample space, nutritious diets, and clean water.
Once calves are born, they remain with their mothers for about 6 months, nursing and growing naturally. During this time, their primary diet consists of nutrient-rich mother’s milk, which helps build strong immunity and supports healthy growth. Newborn calves typically weigh between 60 and 100 pounds at birth. By the time they are weaned, usually around six months, they weigh between 250 and 400 pounds.
As they mature, calves begin to graze on fresh grass in the pasture, gradually transitioning to a “grower ration” diet. This stage is crucial for establishing strong immunity and proper development. Humane handling practices, such as low-stress weaning techniques, are implemented to ensure minimal discomfort during the transition to independence.
As the steers grow, their diet evolves. During this phase, they graze freely on diverse pasture grasses and legumes, which provide essential nutrients for healthy development. By the time they reach 12 to 14 months of age, cattle weigh between 800 and 1,200 pounds. When appropriate, non-GMO grains or other natural feed may be introduced to support growth and enhance marbling in the meat. We never give our cattle antibiotics or growth hormones, ensuring each animal’s diet remains as natural and healthy as possible.
The finishing phase is the final stage before cattle are sent to processing. During this time, the animals are closely monitored to ensure they achieve optimal weight and meat quality. Their diet is carefully managed with high-energy grains, hay, and corn silage to produce tender, flavorful beef. By the end of this phase, typically at 15 to 16 months of age, cattle weigh between 1,200 and 1,400 pounds. Even at this stage, humane handling remains a top priority. We use calm and quiet techniques when moving cattle to reduce stress, which can negatively affect meat quality.
Cattle are provided with clean, comfortable living conditions and access to fresh water and feed until the very end.
Our USDA inspected processing facilities adhere to humane standards that ensure the cattle are handled respectfully during slaughter. Skilled butchers then prepare the beef, breaking it down into cuts and packaging it for delivery.
Ohio farmers supply over 2 billion pounds of beef to America every year. That volume of production means our local processing facilities sometimes have waiting lists. As Pusheta Creek’s calves approach their first birthday, we’re already scheduling ahead six months to be sure we can deliver delicious steaks, burgers, and roasts to your home.
Producing humanely raised farm-to-table beef is a labor of love that requires dedication, ethical practices, and a commitment to sustainability. From careful breeding to humane butchering, every step of the 16-month process is designed to respect the animals and deliver a product that you can enjoy with confidence. By supporting farm-to-table producers, you not only savor high-quality beef but also contribute to a more ethical and sustainable food system.
Sign Up for Specials, Coupons and Recipes
Amanda Liffiton
Author