: These grades usually have less marbling (intramuscular fat) than "Prime" cuts.

: You can ask a butcher to trim excess fat from a specific cut or grind a lean roast (like a chuck roast) specifically for you, which can sometimes be cheaper than buying pre-packaged lean ground beef.

Buying lean meat requires a strategic approach that balances quality, cost, and convenience. To find the best options, you should look beyond just the price tag and consider factors such as the specific cut, the source of the meat, and the grading systems that indicate fat content. Understanding Lean Meat Standards