Waitrose beef

What's special about Waitrose beef?

Waitrose beef is sourced from a carefully-chosen group of British farmers. We have worked exclusively with many of our farmers for more than 10 years, so they understand and share our values and are committed to our high standards of quality, food safety and animal welfare. This long-term partnership offers our farmers the security they need to invest in sustainable farming practices that help to benefit the environment and encourage local wildlife. Specialist butchers prepare the beef before it goes on sale, so it's in the hands of experts from farm to counter. Prime cuts are matured for extra tenderness and flavour and every piece of beef we sell can be traced back to the group of farms where it was reared.

essential Waitrose British beef

Solely sourced from approved farms, our British beef is sold prepacked. Our essential Waitrose British beef comes from prime cattle, from both native and continental breeds, that are fed a healthy grass and cereal-based diet. The beef is expertly butchered to give you the best cuts.

Organic British beef

Our organic beef comes only from Waitrose-approved farms which, as well as working to our usual standards, follow regulations laid down in the Compendium of United Kingdom Organic Standards, including feeding the cows a completely organic diet and allowing them to graze on organic pastures. Prime cuts are matured to enhance flavour and tenderness. Organic beef is available from the prepacked meat fixture.

Aberdeen Angus beef

Waitrose Aberdeen Angus beef is produced from cattle sired by registered pedigree Aberdeen Angus bulls. The Aberdeen Angus is a native British breed, whose meat is naturally marbled with fat, making it exceptionally tender and full of flavour. We hang the hindquarters on the bone to mature it, so it becomes even more flavoursome and tender. We also sell dry-aged Aberdeen Angus beef, which is matured on the bone for at least 21 days, for a rich, almost buttery flavour. Both varieties are sold from the service counter, and Aberdeen Angus mince and burgers are available from both our prepacked assortment and service counter.

Hereford beef

The Hereford is a native breed dating back to the 1700s, and Hereford beef is produced for us by a small group of dedicated farmers. Our Hereford beef is produced from cattle sired by registered pedigree Hereford bulls. Living outside for most of the year, the cattle grow slowly, producing tender meat, marbled with fat that creates a distinctive flavour. Hereford beef is sold pre-packed.

How do you look after animal welfare?

All our beef is reared to standards set independently by Assured British Meat (ABM). These cover everything from ensuring that the animals are fed a healthy diet, to minimising stress during transportation. Farms are inspected regularly to make sure that these standards are met fully. The cattle are only transported by ABM-approved hauliers, and on arrival at the processing plant, are rested and given fresh water to drink.

What about the beef in Waitrose burgers, meatballs and ready meals?

All the beef we use in ready meals is British, and for some dishes, we use only Aberdeen Angus beef - look for the logo on the pack. We offer a range of burgers and meatballs that are made from British, Organic and Aberdeen Angus beef. The range varies from Aberdeen Angus Quarterpounders that are seasoned with salt and pepper to British flavoured burgers, such as those with parmesan and Rosemary. A small selection of them are gluten free, please check the ingredient panel for confirmation.

Try these beef recipes: