Different "Grades" of Ground Beef

Ground beef is an economical and versatile choice for today's consumer.

There are many options available in today's meat case including choices like 91% to 95% lean ground beef that meet the government labeling guidelines for lean.

The ground beef lean-to-fat ratio may vary from store to store and even within the meat case. Many retail stores will identify the percentage lean on each package and many also indicate the cut of beef that has been ground for each package.

 For example, a package may indicate ground chuck, ground round or ground sirloin in addition to providing the lean percentage.

Below are photos of the 5 "types" or "grades" of Ground Beef based on the percentage of fat in the Ground Beef.

Base your purchase decision on price, personal preference and recipe you will prepare.

For example, if a recipe indicates to brown and drain ground beef, any lean percentage is suitable.

 However, if a recipe calls for raw ground beef to be mixed with other ingredients before cooking such as stuffed peppers and some casseroles, it is better to use a higher percentage lean ground beef.

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Last Updated:  Saturday, February 02, 2008 01:59 PM