FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What does made in the USA really mean?
Our beef products are made in the United States using beef sourced from American cattle. From the beef we use to the processing and production of our finished products, we’re proud to support American agriculture and keep our production close to home.
What is the shelf life of the briskets, hot dogs, brats and steaks in the refrigerator?
Shelf life under proper refrigeration is 30 to 45 days,
Why are the JR Ranch meat products still red when fully cooked?
Meat may appear pink or red even after cooking due to several factors, such as pH and the type of meat. A higher pH can protect myoglobin, the protein responsible for meat color, from heat denaturation, resulting in a persistent pink or red appearance rather than the typical cooked brown color. Additionally, certain bacteria & probiotics can produce enzymes that interact with myoglobin, contributing to the pink color.
Ingredient Questions
Why is there Sugar & Evaporated Cane Juice?
Sugar and Evaporated Cane Juice is used to support the growth of the Probiotic Culture much like sugar supports the initial yeast growth in making bread. The Probiotic culture consumes the readily available sugar in the brine fueling its growth, which then continues carbohydrate consumption for fuel from the meat. Only minimal carbohydrates remain after this culturing process is completed.
Why Nonfat Dry Milk in Hot Dogs?
Milk helps to bind the meat together into emulsion and improve flavor, which was traditional used in classic hot dog recipes. The USDA states that up to 3.5% of non-meat binders and extenders, including milk solids, can be used in hot dogs, and the ingredients must be listed on the product label.
Why Vinegar Powder?
Vinegar powder enhance the meat texture and adds a certain tangy flavor.
Why Cherry Powder?
Cherry powder adds natural color, flavor, nutritionally important polyphenols and Vitamin C.
Why Swiss Chard & Cultured Celery Powder?
Swiss Chard & Cultured celery Powder adds natural color, polyphenols, vitamins and improves flavor profiles. They are also a natural preservative.
Why Sodium Phosphate?
Sodium phosphate enhances texture through moisture retention and improving flavor, along with nutritional benefits.
- Phosphate is crucial for bone and teeth formation, energy production, cell membranes, and DNA.
- Sodium helps control fluid levels and supports nerve and muscle function.
What is a starter culture?
A starter culture in culturing – fermentation is microbial culture, a blend of Probiotics and friendly bacteria (typically found in our gut), which is added to the meat to initiate and accelerate the culturing – fermentation process. These cultures help ensure a safe and predictable fermentation, leading to a more delicious, nutritious, and longer-lasting final product with the desired product attributes.
Does culturing and fermentation result in Genetically Modified meats?
NO, the meat is not genetically modified in any way prior or during the process.
Are the cattle administered the mRNA vaccine?
NO, the cattle does not receive the mRNA vaccine, antibiotic and additional hormones.
What type of casing do we use on the hotdogs?
The hotdogs are made in vegetable casings which are removed after cooking thus skinless.
What type of casing do we use on the beef brats?
The brats are made in traditional pork casings to produce the classic brat shape and size.
What is the secret way to cook the hotdogs and brats for best texture?
We prefer to first gently warm the hotdogs and brats in simmering water to release their flavor then run them across the grill just for a couple of minutes to develop that “fresh from the fire” flavor. Remember they are fully cooked so you are heating to warm and develop their rich flavor.
Do we need to remove the meat from the cryovac when reheating the brisket?
Yes, since the meat is fully cooked the re heating process with proceed quicker and more thoroughly out of the bag.
Can I refreeze the beef that I receive in the box?
Yes, but best done as soon as you receive it.
Can I eat it cold from the bag?
Yes, the products are fully cooked. The hot dogs and brats benefit from a short trip across the grill. The steaks are enhanced by the flavor and resulting texture from a short heating on the grill