USDA Beef Ratings

At Allen Brothers, USDA beef ratings are essential to our business. We have to know the precise ratings of the meat that comes into our facilities, because we never sell anything that isn't prime or choice. We will not compromise on this standard. In fact, this standard has been at the center of our business philosophy since 1893.

USDA beef ratings tell consumers the level of quality of the meat they're about to buy. The USDA beef rating system is a voluntary process that meat processors undergo in order to be able to advertise their products to certain sectors of the population. "Prime" is the highest rating and indicates that an exceptional quantity of flavorful fat is present in the meat. Prime beef is essential fare for exclusive restaurants and luxury hotels.

USDA Beef Ratings: Choice and Select

As the meat becomes leaner, its ratings change accordingly. "Choice" and "select" are the next two ratings on the list. Family-oriented chain restaurants and specialty grocery stores often use USDA choice beef, while select beef is what you usually find in the meat section of your local supermarket. There are even lower ratings of meat, such as standard, commercial and canner, but these grades are almost never advertised.

When you order from us, you can be certain of always getting the finest meat on the market. We go above and beyond when it comes to seeking out quality for you. This often means that we reject certain prime cuts of meat because they aren't perfect enough for us. At Allen Brothers, we demand perfection on your behalf.