JBS is one of the world’s largest beef producers, supplying high-quality meat to customers across the globe. But if you’re wondering where you can actually buy JBS beef in the United States, you’re not alone! In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about where JBS beef is sold, which brands it supplies, and how you can spot JBS products at your local grocery store or online. Let’s dive in!
Contents
What Is JBS and Why Is It So Popular?
JBS is a global food company based in Brazil, but it has a major presence in the United States. The company operates dozens of meat processing plants across the country and is known for producing beef, pork, chicken, and more. JBS supplies both fresh and processed meats to retailers, restaurants, and food service providers. Because of its size and reach, there’s a good chance you’ve eaten JBS beef without even realizing it!
Which Brands Use JBS Beef?
JBS doesn’t always sell its beef under its own name. Instead, it owns several well-known brands that you’ll find in supermarkets nationwide. Here are some of the most popular JBS beef brands in the U.S.:
- Swift – One of the company’s flagship brands for fresh beef and pork products.
- Certified Angus Beef – While not owned by JBS, many JBS facilities are licensed to process Certified Angus Beef.
- Blue Ribbon Beef – A brand known for its quality cuts and consistency.
- 1855 Black Angus – Premium Black Angus beef often found in upscale grocers.
- Moyer Beef – Regional brand available in select markets, especially in the Northeast.
- Cedar River Farms – Focused on natural and premium beef selections.
In addition to these brands, JBS also supplies beef to private label brands (store brands) for many supermarkets and bulk retailers.
Where Can You Buy JBS Beef?
You can find JBS beef products at a wide range of grocery stores, wholesale clubs, and online retailers. Here are some of the most common places to look:
Major Grocery Chains
- Walmart – Carries Swift and other JBS-supplied products.
- Kroger – Sells various cuts under store brands and premium labels processed by JBS.
- Albertsons/Safeway – Offers both branded and private label beef from JBS plants.
- Publix – Stocks select JBS-supplied beef cuts, especially under premium lines.
- Meijer, H-E-B, Giant, Food Lion – These regional chains also carry JBS-supplied beef under various labels.
Wholesale Clubs & Bulk Retailers
- Costco – Known to source some beef products from JBS plants (check packaging for processor info).
- Sam’s Club – Offers bulk packs of Swift and other JBS-related products.
- BJ’s Wholesale Club – Stocks both branded and private label beef from large processors like JBS.
Online Retailers
- Amazon Fresh – Sometimes features Swift or other JBS brands depending on your location.
- Walmart.com – Offers home delivery or pickup for Swift and store brand beef processed by JBS.
- Specialty Meat Sites – Some websites sell premium cuts from brands like 1855 Black Angus or Cedar River Farms (often shipped frozen).
How to Identify JBS Beef Products
If you want to make sure you’re buying beef processed by JBS, here are a few tips:
- Check the Brand Name: Look for Swift, Blue Ribbon Beef, 1855 Black Angus, or Cedar River Farms labels.
- Read the Fine Print: Many store-brand packages will list the processor or packing plant on the label (look for “Packed by…” followed by a plant number).
- Look for USDA Establishment Numbers: Every meat package processed in the U.S. has an “EST.” number. Some common ones for JBS include EST. 969 (Greeley, CO), EST. 86R (Grand Island, NE), and EST. 3D (Souderton, PA).
- Ask Your Butcher: At the meat counter, you can always ask which company processes their beef. Many staff members are happy to help!
Why Choose JBS Beef?
There are several reasons why shoppers might prefer beef processed by JBS:
- Consistent Quality: JBS operates state-of-the-art facilities with strict quality controls.
- Diverse Selection: From everyday ground beef to premium Angus steaks, there’s something for every taste and budget.
- Sustainability Efforts: The company has made public commitments to sustainability, animal welfare, and responsible sourcing.
- Wide Availability: Because of its scale, you can find JBS beef almost everywhere in the U.S.
Is JBS Beef Available Internationally?
Yes! While this guide focuses on U.S. retailers, it’s worth noting that JBS exports American beef to over 100 countries worldwide. If you’re outside the U.S., check with major grocery stores or specialty meat shops to see if they import American beef from JBS facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Does JBS sell directly to consumers?
No, JBS does not operate its own retail stores or sell directly to consumers. Instead, it supplies grocery stores, restaurants, and food service providers. You’ll find their products under various brand names or as store-brand/private label meats.
Are all store-brand beef products from JBS?
No. While many large retailers source some of their store-brand beef from JBS plants, they also work with other processors. To be sure, check the packaging for processor information or ask your local butcher.
Is Swift beef always from JBS?
The Swift brand is owned by JBS in North America, so if you see Swift-branded fresh beef or pork in the U.S., it’s almost certainly processed by a JBS facility.
How can I tell if my beef came from a JBS plant?
The best way is to look for the USDA establishment number on the package. You can also check for familiar brand names or ask your store’s meat department staff for more details.
Does JBS offer organic or grass-fed options?
Yes! Some JBS brands—like Cedar River Farms—focus on natural or premium lines that may include grass-fed or organic options. Always read labels carefully to confirm production methods.
Final Thoughts: Finding and Enjoying JBS Beef
If you’re looking for high-quality, widely available beef in the United States, there’s a good chance you’ll find what you need from one of the many brands supplied by JBS. Whether you shop at Walmart, Kroger, Costco, or order online, keep an eye out for familiar brand names like Swift or Blue Ribbon Beef—or check those USDA plant numbers for peace of mind!
No matter your budget or taste preferences, knowing where your food comes from is always a smart move. With this guide in hand, you can shop confidently and enjoy delicious meals made with top-quality beef from one of the world’s leading producers.