Cost-Effective Meat Options
Ground Meats
- Ground Beef: Buy in bulk at 70/30 or 80/20 fat ratios
- Ground Pork: Often cheaper than beef with good fat content
- Organ Meats: Highly nutritious and typically inexpensive
Budget-Friendly Cuts
- Chuck Roast: Versatile for slow cooking
- Bottom Round: Lean and economical
- Pork Shoulder: Excellent fat content and value
- Chicken Thighs: Higher fat content than breasts
Smart Shopping Strategies
Bulk Buying Tips
- Purchase quarter or half cow directly from farmers
- Join wholesale clubs (Costco, Sam’s Club)
- Watch for sales and stock up
- Consider splitting bulk purchases with others
Where to Shop
- Local Butchers: Build relationships for deals
- Farmers Markets: End-of-day discounts
- Discount Grocers: Regular meat specials
- Online Meat Suppliers: Bulk ordering options
Storage Solutions
Freezer Organization
- Invest in a chest freezer
- Vacuum seal portions
- Label and date everything
- Rotate stock regularly
Preservation Methods
- Vacuum sealing extends freezer life
- Proper wrapping prevents freezer burn
- Temperature monitoring maintains quality
Cost-Saving Tips
Weekly Planning
- Track store sales cycles
- Plan meals around deals
- Buy seasonal specials
Price Comparison Guide
| Cut | Target Price/lb | Best Buy Season |
|---|---|---|
| Ground Beef | $3-4/lb | Year-round |
| Chuck Roast | $4-5/lb | Winter |
| Pork Shoulder | $2-3/lb | Fall |
Sample Budget Meal Plan
Daily Menu Under $10
- Breakfast: Eggs and ground beef patty
- Lunch: Chuck roast with tallow
- Dinner: Ground pork and organ meat mix
Additional Money-Saving Tips
- Use fat trimmings for cooking
- Request bones for broth
- Consider cheaper fish options
- Buy imperfect cuts at discount
Monthly Cost Estimate
Basic carnivore diet can cost $300-500/month with smart shopping strategies.
