Quality Bulk Meat/Poultry/Seafood?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores participants' experiences and opinions regarding the quality and value of bulk meat, poultry, and seafood from various retailers, including Costco, Sam's Club, and local butcher shops. Participants share their preferences and purchasing habits, as well as insights into the types of meat they buy.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, expresses excitement about buying larger quantities of meat and seeks opinions on local options.
  • Several participants mention Costco as a preferred source for meat, highlighting its quality and value, with one noting the availability of organic options.
  • Another participant shares their experience of buying meat from Albertsons and Sam's Club, expressing dissatisfaction with Walmart's meat quality.
  • One participant, who previously worked at Costco, affirms the high quality of their meat and seafood products.
  • Some participants discuss the benefits of purchasing from local butchers and farmers, with one sharing a positive experience of buying half a grass-fed cow.
  • Several users mention the convenience of vacuum-sealed packaging for freezing meat, with one participant emphasizing the importance of proper storage to maintain quality.
  • One participant shares their preference for venison, noting that they usually rely on hunting for meat but had to buy beef recently.
  • Another participant expresses interest in the idea of sharing a half-cow with an acquaintance, inspired by previous comments.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

General agreement exists among participants regarding Costco's quality and value for meat, while views differ on other retailers like Walmart and local grocery stores. Some participants advocate for local butchers, indicating a lack of consensus on the best overall source.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and preferences based on their local options and individual purchasing habits, reflecting a variety of approaches to sourcing meat.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on bulk meat purchasing options and quality may find this discussion relevant.

susanr613
susanr613
Gold Member
Messages
2,010
Good morning!

I'm buying a small chest freezer and am looking forward to being able to buy larger quantities of meat, poultry, and seafood. My local choices are Sam's Club, Costco, and Market Day.

Please give me your opinions on value and quality.

Thanks so much!
 
I think Costco has the BEST meat/chicken/seafood, etc....

They have organic/natural choices also - which I really like.
 
We buy most of our meat from the "butcher section" at Albertsons but when I need briskets or prime rib I buy them at Sams.
Funny thing, I never buy meat at any of the local Walmarts though we have 3 every 8 miles on the same stretch of highway. and they are all icky when it comes to produce and meat.I have a foodsaver & the new handi vac (prefer it) and always repackage it for longer freezer life
 
I used to work at Costco for 8 years. Everything there in the meat/produce/seafood etc is top of the line. I love their products!
 
Costco has the best meat for the price. All their beef is Choice grade. Market Day is $$$$$$$$$. I NEVER buy meat from them.
 
Our Walmart is HORRIBLE at meats, even frozen. Local grocery store and meat markets are much better.This year I bought 1/2 a grass fed cow...WONDERFUL meat!I would see if you have a local meat market and check out the prices of part of a pig, see if there are any semi-local farmers you could buy part of a cow from. Of course, we are kind of past butchering time...I do get some frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts in the bags from Sam's Club...
 
Looking like Costco is your best local choice - I'd watch for a sale and then stock up.
 
I love the convenience of the vacuum packed chicken I get at Costco. 6 pouches with 2 breasts each, and each pack can be separated along perferations to be used one at a time. I buy a pack, throw it in the freezer, and cut/tear out a pack when I need it.
 
I do CostcoRemember... you should plan on freezing meats (chicken included) NO LONGER than 3 months... the fibers break down after that and the meat will be lousy.
 
Yup - I buy at Costco, BJ's and always watch for sales - LOVE my foodsaver - a must if you buy in bulk to freeze - cuts down on freezer burn etc. Haven't tried the vacumn bags that ziploc came out with but am sure it is comparable -
 
We get all our chicken from Sam's and I will get Tilapia and Shrimp there too. My DH uncle is a butcher, so we get out beef and pork from him!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #12
the verdict is....costco, with strong recommendations for a foodsaver! thank you all so much!!
 
I would check around your area for a quality butcher. We get all of our meat from our local butcher and it is soooooo much better then any of the grocery stores we have around here!! I almost cry everytime I have to go to the grocery store and buy meat when we are in between orders!! Good luck!
 
Costco is AWESOME for meat. I buy the big packages of ground beef and then divide it them up into small 1-1 and 1/2 lb. portions in ziploc baggies, then freeze them. It's definately the cheapest way to buy hamburgar and the quality is good too!
 
We buy our meat at our locally owned Grocery Stores b/c the only chain we have is Walmart and I HATE their meat.

We have no choices!
 
janetupnorth said:
This year I bought 1/2 a grass fed cow...WONDERFUL meat!

I would see if you have a local meat market and check out the prices of part of a pig, see if there are any semi-local farmers you could buy part of a cow from. Of course, we are kind of past butchering time...QUOTE]

I was just going to say that too!

The hubby and I bought 1/2 of a cow a friend of ours was butchering in Feb. It is THE BEST meat I have ever had. No additives, steriods, nothing.

We usually don't have to buy meat, because the hubby is a hunter and usually get 4-6 deer during hunting season. He wasn't able to go out hunting very much last year, so we had to end up buying beef. I prefer venison because it is leaner, but it is nice to have beef for a change. Maybe it tastes so much yummier to me because I am used to venison. :D
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  • Thread starter
  • #17
hmmm those are good points. i am not looped into the hunting scene, so venison is probably out of my reach. but, now you've given me an idea to see if the ex wants to share a half-cow. of course, he'd probably ask me to cook it for him LOL
 
elizabethfox said:
We usually don't have to buy meat, because the hubby is a hunter and usually get 4-6 deer during hunting season. He wasn't able to go out hunting very much last year, so we had to end up buying beef. I prefer venison because it is leaner, but it is nice to have beef for a change. Maybe it tastes so much yummier to me because I am used to venison. :D
Click to expand...

I love deer on the grill (wrapped in bacon)or fried!

My FIL owns a Deer Processing House, so, we get it from him without having to go hunting. I do not like the deer-burger or deer-sausage though. I usually give it to my dad or friends.
 
jrstephens said:
I love deer on the grill (wrapped in bacon)or fried!

My FIL owns a Deer Processing House, so, we get it from him without having to go hunting. I do not like the deer-burger or deer-sausage though. I usually give it to my dad or friends.
Click to expand...

I didn't like the venision burger either, so when we get ours processed, we have them mix beef in with the venision. Tastes good that way!
 
Back to non deer meat :). I've never tried costco, but I love the meat at Sam's Club. Pretty much buy all my meat there, unless it's on sale at my local store. Buying 1/2 a cow sounds great though!! And if I knew some hunters, I'd love the venison too :)
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of bulk meat, poultry, and seafood are available for purchase?

We offer a variety of bulk options, including beef, chicken, pork, and seafood. Each category includes different cuts and types to suit various cooking needs, such as ground meat, steaks, fillets, and whole birds.

How is the quality of the bulk meat, poultry, and seafood ensured?

Our bulk products are sourced from reputable suppliers who adhere to strict quality control standards. We prioritize freshness, humane treatment of animals, and sustainable fishing practices to ensure that you receive the highest quality products.

Can I customize my bulk meat, poultry, and seafood order?

Yes, many suppliers offer customizable options for bulk orders. You can select specific cuts, quantities, and even request special packaging to meet your needs. It's best to check with your local representative for available customization options.

What are the benefits of purchasing bulk meat, poultry, and seafood?

Buying in bulk can lead to significant cost savings, reduce packaging waste, and ensure you always have quality protein on hand for meals. It's also convenient for meal prepping and can help you plan for larger gatherings or family meals.

How should I store bulk meat, poultry, and seafood to maintain freshness?

To maintain freshness, bulk meat, poultry, and seafood should be stored in the freezer if not used immediately. Make sure to package them in airtight containers or vacuum-sealed bags to prevent freezer burn and maintain quality. Always thaw safely in the refrigerator or using cold water methods.

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