The USDA Grading Program is a voluntary program paid for by the beef industry, whereby USDA inspectors examine cattle during the packing process in order to assign relative quality designations, determined largely by the degree of marbling and the age of the animal.
There are eight distinct grades, three of which are commonly found in cut steak programs. Roughly 3% of beef cattle grade out Prime, causing this grade to be significantly higher in price than other grades. USDA Choice, the grade awarded to roughly half of the beef graded each year, contains sufficient marbling for taste and tenderness, but at a better price point.
Thought to be very high quality, Choice provides an excellent eating experience for less of your weekly food dollar. While other local grocers and mass retailers sell Select, the third and lowest quality tier, only Choice beef will be offered at our stores.