+Is your beef grass-fed?
We offer several beef options based on availability. Some of that beef is grass-fed.To learn more about cooking grass-fed beef, visit our blog. Most critical to us is that all of our animals are raised by farmers who care about their well-being.
+Is your meat organic?
Our beef and pork are not certified organic. They are, however, sourced regionally, as well as humanely and sustainably-raised and produced. The farmers we work with adhere to our very strict requirements and none of our animals are given, fed, or administered hormones or antibiotics. Our chicken is USDA certified organic; this is the best choice for us to provide our customers with a consistent and ethical option at an affordable price. Check out our book, The Butcher’s Guide to Well-Raised Meat, for more information on why we don’t require all our farmers to obtain organic certification.
+What about your other ingredients?
We source everything we use in our products with the same careful attention we pay to our meat. All of our spices are organic and, with a very few exceptions, all of our other ingredients are as well. See our ingredients labels for specifics.
+Is your meat fresh or frozen?
When you buy meat in the vending machines, it’s always fresh. If you place an order for curbside pick-up, you’ll be ordering from our frozen menu. Frozen meat is great to travel with or for bulk stocking your freezer. See here for detailed information about curbside services.
+How long do products stay in the machine for?
We stock the machines fresh daily, just like a butcher case. Raw meat like steaks and chops, and even ground, remain in the machine for a week max. Processed goods like hot dogs might stay in there for two weeks, but it’s not likely because they’re too delicious to stick around that long. Everything we sell could actually safely stay in the machines–or your fridge–for a month. We prefer shorter shelf life for sake of quality. Always use or freeze our product by the date on the label.
+The use or freeze by date on my meat is a month from now. I’m nervous about keeping meat for a month. How do I know if it’s still good?
When you open a vacuum-sealed package, your meat might have a slightly funny smell at first. This is because meat naturally gives off gases, and those gases have been trapped in that tight little space. This does not mean it has gone bad. If you’ve left something out or it’s close to its due date and you’re concerned about how it smells when you open it, one way to tell if your meat is good is to leave it on a plate on your countertop at room temperature for 20 minutes. When you return, give it a whiff. If it’s odorless, your gases have dissipated and the meat is fresh. If it’s still funky, the meat should not be eaten.
+Why vending machines?
A lot of our customers want to run in, get what they want and get home. Plain and simple — people live busy, complex lives. We realized that a 24/7 self service butcher shop would be a huge convenience to people.
+Can I place a custom order?
We’re not currently taking custom orders, but we are taking orders for curbside pick-up. You can order from our evolving menu of frozen items and we’ll pack an insulated bag for you to pick-up, no contact. Place your order for curbside here.
– Order online: www.applestonemeat.com
– Order by email: info@applestonemeat.com
– Order by phone: (845) 626-4444
+What are some pointers for ordering online?
The most important thing is to note that you’re ordering by weight, not by item, unless otherwise specified. Ordering by weight online is tricky, because we never know exactly what a piece of meat will weigh until we cut it. So, we ask you to pick a weight range and then we give you an estimate of your cost based on the high end of your weight range. We’ll never charge you more than your estimate. Once you place an online order, one of our staff members will be in touch to discuss details and arrange a pick-up.
+How do I know how much to order?
We usually recommend about a half pound of meat per person. If we were standing beside you right now, we’d ask, “How many vegetarians at your table?” “Any big eaters?” “How many of your group are children who will only pick and nibble?” You can factor those things in, too, but the ½ lb. rule is a good place to start.
+When is my payment processed?
Your payment is processed once we’ve cut and packed your order. When you place your order initially, the website calculates the highest possible amount it could cost and places a hold on your card for that much. Once your order is packed, we enter the actual cost and push the payment through. The actual cost is always lower than the estimate. We will never charge you more.
+What’s the cut-off date for holiday orders?
Our cut-off date for all holiday special orders is a week prior to the day. That means Mother’s Day, Christmas, Passover — you name it. If you need a standard menu item, it’s worth calling us, even if you miss the cut-off for custom cuts. We may have what you need and can pack it right up for you. Keep in mind that we continue to stock the vending machines with holiday cuts right up until any given holiday. And you can come in and shop the 24/7 machines whenever works for you. So if you’re a late planner or have a last minute holiday party, you’ll still be good to go.
+What types of payment do you take?
Our vending machines currently accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, AndroidPay, and ApplePay. If ordering online, you can pay via Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, and PayPal. All forms of payment are accepted at our customer service window including cash, check, EBT/Access, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, AndroidPay, and ApplePay.
+How do I know when my order is ready?
You’ll know your order is ready when you receive a call or email from one of our staff members. Some kind member of our customer service team will be in touch to arrange all pick-up details.
+Do you deliver?
We do not currently have delivery services.
