Smoked Steak Skewers with Tomatoes, Onions and Olives

Beef: Processing to Plate

This three-part virtual learning series helps students understand how beef moves from processing to preparation. Through guided virtual experiences, students will learn about the steps involved in processing beef, basic meat science concepts and how beef is prepared in the kitchen. 

Week 1 

Lesson 1. Inside a Beef Packing Plant

Students take a guided virtual look inside a beef packing plant to learn about the steps involved in processing beef and the practices used to support food safety and consistency.

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Inside of a Packing Plant Video Series

Step inside of a packing plant!

1. Intro


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2. What is a Packing Plant


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3. Food Safety


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4. Processing & Inspection


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5. Cutting & Packaging


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6. Interview with Brian


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Inside a Beef Packing Plant Resource Guide

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Week 2

Lesson 2. The Meat Science Behind Beef

This session introduces students to meat science concepts in an approachable way, including why beef looks the way it does, how beef is graded, and how muscles are used to create different cuts.

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Week 2 Resources

The Meat Science Behind Beef


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Muscle Lesson Plan


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Taste, Tenderness and the Muscle Fiber


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Week 3

Lesson 3. Beef in the Kitchen

This session brings beef into the kitchen and focuses on practical cooking skills. A chef demonstrates simple beef cooking techniques while preparing a recipe and discussing key considerations.

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Week 3 Resources

Beef in the Kitchen Slides


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Beef & Kale Bolognese Recipe


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Fruit Candy Test


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