Raising Beef

Raising beef is a complex process, but throughout the entire journey, one thing remains constant – the shared commitment to raising cattle in a safe, humane and environmentally sustainable way. Currently, more than 90% of U.S. farms and ranches are family-owned and operated. Learn more about the people who are invested in raising high-quality, sustainable beef for generations to come. Agriculture plays a major role in sustaining the Pennsylvania families who raise beef, all while sustaining the families who eat beef with a wholesome, flavor-packed protein.

Snapshot of Pennsylvania Beef Production

Insights from Pennsylvania Beef Producers. 

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Pennsylvania Beef Industry Facts At A Glance: Beef Producers contribute to rural economies, care for natural resources, and produce high-quality beef to feed families in Pennsylvania and beyond. 

25,000

head of cattle in pa

49,000

PA Farm families

$7.8 B

in pa's cash recipts by production agriculture

7.3 M

acres of farmland in pa

475.4M

lbs of beef produced

Looking For Local Beef?

There are so many choices of beef and we want to help you find the best option for you and connect you with local beef farmers/ranchers.  We've assembled a local beef directory to help connect you with options to purchase beef directly from beef farmers.

  Local beef directory 

2014 Millennial Lifestyle Photos

Know Your Beef Choices

Like the farmers and ranchers who choose how best to raise their cattle for beef, you have choices when it comes to the beef you buy. Cattle are raised responsibly and beef is safe, wholesome and nutritious – but you may see a variety of statements that reflect different production practices on beef packages in your grocery store or on a menu. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) approves these labels for beef based on specific criteria.

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Veal 

America’s veal farmers are committed to ensuring the health and well-being of their calves, taking care of the environment and providing safe, high-quality, nutritious food for consumers. Most veal calves are raised on small family farms, and veal-farming families are proud to share more about their ongoing dedication to doing what’s right.

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PA Beef Quality Assurance

Learn more about the program designed to give producers the opportunity to be trained in best management practices to ensure proper animal care on the farm to provide a safe, wholesome, quality beef product for the end consumer to enjoy! 

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