Frequently Asked Questions

While “buffalo” and “bison” are often used interchangeably, they’re actually not the same thing. Buffalo refers to water buffalo in Africa or Asia, whereas bison are native to North America. True buffalo meat is rare in the United States. You’ll also notice a difference between the taste and texture of their meats, with bison being sweeter and leaner. You will only receive true bison meat from Bluestem Bison Ranch.

The terms "grass-fed" and "grass-finished" bison refer to the animal's diet and how it was raised, with key differences relating to the duration and type of feed at different stages of the bison's life. Grass-Fed Bison: The term "grass-fed" means that the bison was primarily raised on grass or forage for a significant portion of its life. However, this does not necessarily mean that the bison was fed only grass for its entire life. Some grass-fed bison may be grain-finished, meaning that toward the end of their life, they are fed grains (such as corn or soy) to fatten them up before harvest. This is done to increase the marbling of the meat. Grass-Finished Bison: Grass-finished bison means the animal ate grass or forage for its entire life, including up to the point of harvest. No grains were introduced at any stage of the animal's development. This results in leaner meat with a different flavor profile than grain-finished bison. Grass-finished meat tends to have a more robust, earthy taste and a lower fat content. Bluestem Bison are 100% Grass-Fed and Grass-Finished, raised free of grains and GMO feeds. They graze native, chemical-free prairie grasses for their entire life. This creates a leaner, healthier, and lighter meat compared to grain-finished bison.

Never. Our bison are free to roam the land, grazing on native grasses and plants 24/7 - 365 days per year. They are never confined to gain weight and increase muscle mass, nor are they given synthetic hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified substances. Unlike many conventional livestock farms, our bison are never grain-fed or grain-finished, and you can taste it in the quality of their meat.

At Bluestem Bison Ranch, we pride ourselves on the partnership we’ve created between our team, our animals, and the land. Our bison are grass-fed and raised on rolling pastures in Northwest Kansas, living harmoniously with the other native creatures and playing a vital role in maintaining a thriving ecosystem. Their grazing promotes biodiversity and helps reduce harmful and invasive species. We also use regenerative agricultural practices to improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Yes! We never confine or forcefully reproduce our bison. We strive to maintain the utmost respect for these majestic creatures, with minimal human interference, which even comes down to harvesting them on the very land they are raised with a celebration of life. Bluestem Bison Ranch is a far cry from what you would see on many overcrowded conventional livestock farms today.

We like to say that the proof of how our bison are raised can be tasted in the quality and purity of their meat. Bison protein has a rich, slightly sweet flavor that some say is similar to beef, but cleaner and more delicate. It’s also less greasy and more tender than beef. Our grass-fed, free-roaming bison provide a robust, earthy flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.

Ultimately, we have to leave that decision up to you — but we think so! Nutritionally, bison meat is leaner than beef, providing less fat and fewer calories per serving. Bison also provides more protein and healthy omega-3 fatty acids than beef. Plus, our bison are always grass-fed (not grain-finished) and never given antibiotics or hormones, which is not typical for conventional beef.

Yes, bison is classified as red meat because it contains high levels of myoglobin (a protein found in muscle tissue), giving it a darker reddish color similar to beef. However, bison is leaner and lower in saturated fat than beef.

From a bison meat nutrition standpoint, yes. While poultry generally provides fewer calories and total fat than bison, our bison provides more protein, omega-3 fats, and essential nutrients like vitamins B6 and B12, iron, zinc, calcium, and potassium, making it an excellent addition to your diet.

We’re not here to tell you what to do, but from our perspective, yes! There’s no reason most people couldn’t include grass-fed, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free bison meat in their daily diet. Is bison meat healthy? Yes! Bison provides lean protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential nutrients, making it a great addition to an overall healthy diet that also includes fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

The amount of freezer space you'll need depends on the size of the bison share you purchase. Here’s a helpful guide: 1/8 (Eighth) Sample Share - An eighth sample share fits into a freezer with 2-3 cubic feet. This space could be the empty freezer compartment of a standard refrigerator. This share is a starter version of steaks, roasts, and ground. 1/4 (Quarter) Share - Our best-selling and most desired share! A quarter share typically fits nicely into 4-5 cubic feet of freezer space. This share offers a great mix of cuts including steaks, roasts, ground bison, and other delicious pieces. 1/2 (Half) Share - You'll need about 8-10 cubic feet of freezer space for a half share of bison This gives you enough room for a larger variety of cuts, similar to the quarter share but doubled up for more enjoyment. You will receive more special cuts from this animal including brisket and flat iron steaks. Whole Share - You'll want to set aside about 16-20 cubic feet of freezer space. This option includes the full spread of cuts, maximizing your storage space and value. You will receive briskets, flat iron steaks, flank steaks, tri-tip, organ meats, and more! To keep your naturally delicious, ethically raised bison meat at its best, we suggest using a chest freezer. It’s great for efficient storage and ensures your bison meat stays fresh and flavorful.

Check back soon! We're working to get you links to savings on chest freezers with reputable appliance brands.

Frozen bison meat from Bluestem Bison can last up to 2 years when stored properly in a freezer set at 0°F (-18°C) or lower. For optimal quality and flavor, we recommend using within 12 months.

Bison meat is lower in fat compared to other red meats which makes it easier to overcook. It appears a darker red because it contains less fat and marbling compared to beef. Our ground bison burger is exceptionally lean with no added fat so it cooks very quickly. Bison steak will cook about one third faster than a beef steak. It is advised to use lower heat for less amount of time when cooking or grilling. For best results use a meat thermometer. Overcooked meat is tough. Delicious meat is tender.

Cook ground bison to an internal temperature of at least 160 degrees Farenheit.

You can cook bison steaks to your preference: Medium Rare: 145 degrees Farenheit Medium: 160 degrees Farenheit

Oven should be around 275 degrees Farenheit and will be done comparable to the same time as a beef roast.

Tender Chuck Brisket Flank Stew Meat Short Ribs Cooking Method: Moist Heat More Tender Back Ribs Sirloin Tri Tip Top Round Bottom Round Cooking Method: Dry & Moist Heat Most Tender Tenderloin Strip Loin Ribeye Top Sirloin Cooking Method: Dry Heat