The price of this premium lower of beef is influenced by a number of components, together with weight, grade (e.g., USDA Prime, Selection, Choose), whether or not it is bought entire or pre-cut (e.g., filets, steaks), and the seller (e.g., butcher store, grocery store, on-line retailer). Usually, costs are quoted per pound, and may fluctuate considerably primarily based on these components. For instance, a complete, untrimmed tenderloin could be inexpensive per pound than individually packaged filet mignon steaks from a high-end butcher.
Understanding the market value for this prized lower helps shoppers make knowledgeable buying selections. It permits for correct budgeting and comparability buying throughout completely different distributors. Traditionally, this lower has been thought-about a luxurious merchandise on account of its tenderness and delicate taste, leading to usually larger costs in comparison with different cuts of beef. Understanding the market worth empowers shoppers to evaluate the relative worth being provided and to keep away from overpaying.
This dialogue will additional discover the aforementioned components affecting value, present steerage on choosing a tenderloin primarily based on particular wants and budgets, and supply tips about preparation strategies that maximize the worth and pleasure of this particular lower of beef.
1. Weight
Weight considerably influences the general price. A heavier tenderloin naturally instructions a better value than a smaller one. Nevertheless, understanding the connection between whole weight and value per pound affords priceless insights for cost-effective buying.
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Entire Tenderloin vs. Parts
Buying a complete, untrimmed tenderloin usually ends in a decrease price per pound in comparison with shopping for pre-cut parts like filets or steaks. This is because of diminished processing and packaging. A complete tenderloin permits flexibility in portioning and makes use of all the lower, minimizing waste and maximizing worth.
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Common Weights and Worth Ranges
Entire tenderloins usually vary from 4 to six kilos. Bigger tenderloins, whereas dearer general, might supply a barely cheaper price per pound. Understanding the standard weight vary permits for real looking price range planning and facilitates value comparisons throughout completely different distributors.
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Trimming and Loss
Untrimmed tenderloins comprise a “chain” and a few fats that must be eliminated earlier than cooking. This loss, usually 10-20% of the whole weight, ought to be thought-about when calculating the precise usable yield and the efficient value per pound of the edible portion.
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Portion Dimension and Serving Prices
Figuring out particular person portion sizes influences the whole variety of servings obtainable from a given weight. Calculating the price per serving supplies a priceless metric for assessing worth and planning meals inside a selected price range.
Cautious consideration of weight, together with portioning and trimming components, empowers shoppers to optimize their buy, balancing desired serving sizes with general cost-effectiveness. Evaluating costs per pound throughout completely different weights and vendor choices facilitates knowledgeable decision-making, guaranteeing most worth from this premium lower of beef.
2. Grade (USDA)
USDA beef grades, primarily Prime, Selection, and Choose, considerably affect tenderloin pricing. These grades replicate the marbling (intramuscular fats) and maturity of the meat, impacting taste, tenderness, and juiciness. Prime, the very best grade, signifies considerable marbling, contributing to distinctive tenderness and a wealthy taste profile. Consequently, Prime tenderloins command the very best costs. Selection, providing average marbling, balances high quality and cost-effectiveness, making it a preferred selection for shoppers. Choose, with much less marbling, is essentially the most economical possibility however might require extra consideration to cooking strategies to make sure tenderness.
The value distinction between grades will be substantial. As an example, a Prime tenderloin may cost 20-30% extra per pound than a Selection grade, with Choose providing additional value reductions. This value stratification permits shoppers to pick a tenderloin that aligns with each their price range and desired consuming expertise. Eating places usually characteristic Prime grade for premium menu gadgets, whereas dwelling cooks may go for Option to steadiness high quality and worth. Understanding these grade distinctions empowers knowledgeable decision-making on the butcher counter or grocery retailer.
Whereas USDA grades present priceless info concerning anticipated high quality and corresponding pricing, different components contribute to the general consuming expertise. Correct cooking methods play a vital position in maximizing tenderness and taste, whatever the grade. Dry getting old, one other issue influencing tenderness and taste, can additional elevate the standard of any grade of beef. Contemplating these elements holistically permits for optimum tenderloin choice and preparation, reaching a satisfying culinary expertise inside a given price range.
3. Entire or pre-cut
The choice to buy a complete beef tenderloin versus pre-cut parts considerably impacts price. This selection includes trade-offs between comfort, potential waste, and value per pound, requiring cautious consideration primarily based on particular person wants and culinary plans.
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Entire Tenderloin Benefits
Buying a complete tenderloin usually ends in a cheaper price per pound in comparison with pre-cut choices. That is attributed to diminished labor prices related to butchering and packaging particular person parts. A complete tenderloin affords versatility, permitting for customized portioning into steaks, roasts, or different desired cuts, minimizing waste and maximizing worth. Nevertheless, it requires trimming and portioning abilities.
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Pre-cut Comfort
Pre-cut parts, equivalent to filet mignon steaks or chateaubriand roasts, supply comfort for many who choose to not trim and portion a complete tenderloin. These individually packaged cuts are prepared for cooking, simplifying meal preparation. Nevertheless, this comfort comes at a premium, as pre-cut choices usually command a better value per pound.
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Waste Discount Methods
Whereas a complete tenderloin presents potential for waste if not correctly utilized, strategic planning can reduce this concern. The “chain,” a thinner portion of the tenderloin, can be utilized for stir-fries or different dishes. Trimmings and smaller items will be floor for flavorful beef patties or utilized in stews and sauces, guaranteeing that all the tenderloin contributes to culinary worth.
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Storage Concerns
A complete tenderloin requires sufficient freezer area for storage, whereas pre-cut parts supply extra flexibility for these with restricted storage capability. Correct freezing methods, equivalent to vacuum sealing, are important for sustaining optimum high quality and minimizing freezer burn, no matter whether or not the tenderloin is bought entire or pre-cut.
Cautious consideration of the trade-offs between price, comfort, and potential waste guides knowledgeable decision-making. Evaluating particular culinary wants, out there space for storing, and price range constraints helps decide the most suitable choice, guaranteeing an economical and satisfying culinary expertise.
4. Vendor Kind
Vendor sort considerably influences beef tenderloin pricing. Completely different distributors function underneath distinct enterprise fashions, impacting their pricing buildings. Understanding these variations empowers shoppers to make knowledgeable buying selections aligned with price range and desired high quality.
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Butcher Outlets
Butcher retailers usually specialise in high-quality meats, probably together with dry-aged or specialty-sourced beef. Their experience in meat choice and preparation usually instructions premium costs. Customized service and customised cuts contribute to the upper price. Whereas usually dearer than supermarkets, butcher retailers can present entry to distinctive high quality and tailor-made cuts not available elsewhere.
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Supermarkets
Supermarkets supply a broader choice of beef grades and cuts at aggressive costs. Their large-scale buying energy permits for economies of scale, translating to decrease prices for shoppers. Whereas supermarkets won’t supply the identical degree of specialised service as butcher retailers, they supply a handy and cost-effective possibility for a lot of.
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Specialty Grocery Shops
Specialty grocery shops, usually specializing in natural, grass-fed, or regionally sourced merchandise, usually place themselves at a better value level. These distributors cater to shoppers prioritizing particular manufacturing practices or supporting native agriculture. The emphasis on high quality and moral sourcing contributes to larger prices.
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On-line Retailers
On-line retailers current a rising marketplace for buying beef tenderloins. Pricing varies relying on the retailer’s enterprise mannequin and product sourcing. On-line platforms supply comfort and sometimes characteristic value comparisons throughout completely different distributors. Nevertheless, transport prices and potential delays in supply require consideration.
Vendor choice includes navigating the trade-offs between value, high quality, comfort, and entry to particular product traits. Cautious consideration of those components empowers shoppers to determine the optimum vendor for his or her particular person wants and price range, guaranteeing a satisfying buy.
5. Market Situations
Fluctuations in market situations straight impression beef tenderloin costs. These situations embody a posh interaction of provide, demand, financial components, and international occasions. Understanding these dynamics supplies priceless context for decoding value traits and making knowledgeable buying selections.
Provide-Aspect Elements: Beef manufacturing is topic to varied influences, together with feed prices, climate patterns, and illness outbreaks. Elevated feed prices can result in larger manufacturing bills for ranchers, probably translating to larger tenderloin costs. Drought or different opposed climate occasions can disrupt cattle manufacturing, limiting provide and driving costs upward. Illness outbreaks, impacting herd sizes, also can prohibit provide and exert upward strain on costs.
Demand-Aspect Elements: Client preferences and financial situations play a major position in tenderloin demand. In periods of financial prosperity, shoppers could also be extra inclined to buy premium cuts like tenderloin, growing demand and probably driving costs larger. Conversely, financial downturns can result in decreased demand for luxurious gadgets, probably softening tenderloin costs. Shifting shopper preferences in the direction of different protein sources or dietary traits also can affect demand and impression market costs.
World Occasions: Worldwide commerce insurance policies, forex change charges, and international occasions can affect beef tenderloin markets. Commerce restrictions or tariffs can disrupt import and export flows, impacting each provide and value. Fluctuations in forex change charges can have an effect on the price of imported beef, influencing home costs. World occasions, equivalent to pandemics or geopolitical instability, can create uncertainty in provide chains, probably impacting each availability and value stability.
Navigating these interconnected components requires consciousness of present market traits and potential disruptions. Monitoring business information, financial indicators, and international occasions can present insights into potential value fluctuations. Flexibility in buying selections, contemplating different cuts or adjusting portion sizes, permits shoppers to adapt to altering market dynamics and preserve budgetary management.
6. Seasonality
Whereas much less pronounced than with another meals merchandise, seasonality can subtly affect beef tenderloin costs. Sure occasions of the 12 months expertise elevated demand, probably resulting in slight value changes. Understanding these seasonal traits permits for knowledgeable buying selections and probably figuring out intervals of relative worth.
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Elevated Demand Throughout Holidays
Demand for beef tenderloin usually peaks throughout main holidays equivalent to Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Yr’s. These events ceaselessly characteristic elaborate meals, with tenderloin serving as a centerpiece for festive gatherings. This heightened demand can result in quickly larger costs as retailers reply to elevated shopper curiosity.
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Summer time Grilling Season
The summer season grilling season witnesses elevated demand for varied cuts of beef, together with tenderloin. As out of doors cooking turns into extra prevalent, shoppers search premium cuts for grilling, probably contributing to slight value will increase. This seasonal demand is influenced by favorable climate situations and a cultural emphasis on out of doors entertaining.
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Relative Worth Stability All through the Yr
In comparison with produce or seafood, beef tenderloin costs exhibit relative stability all year long. The constant demand and established provide chains for beef contribute to much less pronounced seasonal value fluctuations. Nevertheless, recognizing the delicate affect of vacation demand and grilling season can inform buying methods.
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Particular Promotions and Gross sales
Retailers usually characteristic particular promotions and gross sales on beef tenderloin, notably in periods of decrease demand. Monitoring these promotional affords can present alternatives for cost-effective buying. Consciousness of seasonal traits and retailer promotional calendars can help shoppers in figuring out optimum buy timing.
By understanding the delicate affect of seasonality, shoppers could make knowledgeable selections concerning tenderloin purchases. Whereas seasonal value fluctuations are usually much less pronounced than with different meals merchandise, recognizing intervals of peak demand and leveraging promotional affords permits for optimized buying methods and probably enhanced worth.
7. Particular Promotions
Particular promotions play a major position in influencing beef tenderloin costs. These promotions, usually strategically timed by retailers, supply shoppers alternatives to buy this premium lower at diminished costs. Understanding the dynamics of those promotions supplies priceless insights for cost-conscious shoppers in search of to maximise worth.
Retailers make use of varied promotional methods to stimulate gross sales and handle stock. These methods can embody short-term value reductions, “buy-one-get-one” affords, or bundled offers that mix tenderloin with complementary merchandise. Vacation gross sales occasions, equivalent to Memorial Day, Fourth of July, or Labor Day, usually characteristic discounted costs on grilling gadgets, together with tenderloin. Moreover, retailers might supply promotions tied to particular retailer loyalty packages or bank card partnerships.
Promotional timing ceaselessly aligns with intervals of predicted decrease demand or strategic stock administration. For instance, a retailer may supply discounted tenderloin after a significant vacation to cut back extra stock. Alternatively, promotions could be applied to drive visitors throughout slower gross sales intervals. Recognizing these patterns permits shoppers to anticipate potential promotional alternatives and plan purchases accordingly. Comparability buying throughout completely different retailers throughout promotional intervals facilitates identification of essentially the most advantageous affords.
Consciousness of promotional cycles and retailer methods empowers shoppers to optimize buying selections. Subscribing to retailer e-mail lists, following social media updates, and consulting retailer flyers present priceless info on upcoming promotions. By strategically timing purchases to coincide with these promotional intervals, shoppers can considerably scale back the price of beef tenderloin with out compromising high quality. This proactive strategy to buying maximizes worth and permits shoppers to take pleasure in this premium lower extra ceaselessly.
8. Packaging
Packaging performs a nuanced but vital position within the remaining price of beef tenderloin. Whereas seemingly a minor element, packaging selections affect preservation, presentation, and perceived worth, all contributing to the general value.
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Vacuum Sealing
Vacuum sealing extends shelf life by eradicating air and inhibiting bacterial development. This preservation methodology minimizes waste and permits retailers to supply a wider choice, together with probably higher-priced aged cuts. The price of vacuum sealing supplies and tools contributes to the ultimate value, albeit usually marginally. Customers profit from prolonged freshness and diminished spoilage, justifying the slight value increment.
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Modified Ambiance Packaging (MAP)
MAP makes use of a modified gasoline combination throughout the packaging to keep up coloration and decelerate spoilage. This method enhances visible enchantment, probably growing perceived worth and justifying a better value level. Whereas MAP extends shelf life, it provides to packaging prices, mirrored within the remaining value. Customers prioritize the prolonged freshness and vibrant coloration, offsetting the incremental price.
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Overwrap Tray Packaging
Overwrap tray packaging supplies an economical resolution for displaying and defending pre-cut parts like filet mignon steaks. This packaging affords fundamental safety and visibility however might have a shorter shelf life in comparison with vacuum sealing or MAP. The decrease packaging price contributes to a extra aggressive value level for shoppers in search of worth over prolonged preservation.
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Butcher Paper
Conventional butcher paper affords a easy, economical packaging resolution, primarily for entire tenderloins or cuts bought straight from a butcher. Whereas providing restricted shelf life, it contributes minimally to the general price. Customers choosing butcher paper prioritize fast consumption and worth over prolonged preservation. This conventional strategy aligns with a concentrate on minimizing packaging supplies and value.
Packaging selections replicate a steadiness between preservation, presentation, and value. Customers in search of optimum shelf life may settle for the marginally larger value related to vacuum sealing or MAP, whereas these prioritizing worth and fast consumption might go for much less elaborate packaging options like overwrap trays or butcher paper. Understanding these packaging nuances empowers knowledgeable selections aligned with particular person wants and budgetary concerns.
9. Natural or grass-fed
Manufacturing practices, particularly natural and grass-fed designations, considerably affect beef tenderloin pricing. These designations replicate variations in animal husbandry, feed, and land administration, impacting each manufacturing prices and shopper perceptions of worth. Understanding these distinctions supplies essential context for decoding value variations and making knowledgeable buying selections.
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Natural Certification
Natural certification mandates adherence to strict USDA requirements, prohibiting using antibiotics, hormones, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in feed. This stringent oversight will increase manufacturing prices on account of extra intensive administration practices and specialised feed necessities. These elevated prices are mirrored within the larger value of natural beef tenderloin. Customers in search of assurance of those particular manufacturing practices settle for the related value premium.
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Grass-Fed Designation
Grass-fed beef comes from cattle raised totally on pasture, versus grain-based feedlots. This eating regimen can affect the flavour profile and fats composition of the meat. Grass-fed manufacturing usually includes longer elevating intervals and completely different land administration practices, contributing to larger manufacturing prices. These elevated prices translate to larger costs for grass-fed tenderloin. Customers valuing this particular dietary strategy and potential taste distinctions are keen to pay the upper value.
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Mixed Natural and Grass-Fed
Some producers mix each natural and grass-fed practices, adhering to each units of requirements. This mixed strategy usually represents the very best manufacturing prices because of the stringent necessities of every designation. Consequently, tenderloins bearing each labels command the very best costs, reflecting the mixed manufacturing bills and shopper demand for these particular practices. Customers in search of the assurances of each natural and grass-fed manufacturing are keen to put money into the very best high quality and moral concerns.
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Typical Beef Manufacturing
Typical beef manufacturing usually makes use of grain-based feeds and will contain using antibiotics and hormones for development promotion. These practices contribute to decrease manufacturing prices in comparison with natural or grass-fed techniques. This price effectivity interprets to decrease costs for conventionally raised tenderloin, making it a extra accessible possibility for budget-conscious shoppers. Customers prioritizing affordability over particular manufacturing practices usually go for conventionally raised beef.
Manufacturing practices play a vital position in figuring out tenderloin costs. Customers in search of particular attributes, equivalent to natural certification or grass-fed designation, will discover corresponding value variations reflecting the manufacturing prices related to these practices. Evaluating these value variations in gentle of private priorities and budgetary constraints empowers knowledgeable buying selections aligned with particular person values and desired high quality attributes. Understanding the interaction between manufacturing practices, shopper demand, and market pricing permits for a extra nuanced strategy to choosing beef tenderloin.
Regularly Requested Questions on Beef Tenderloin Pricing
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning beef tenderloin pricing, offering concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable buying selections.
Query 1: What’s the common value vary for beef tenderloin?
Tenderloin pricing varies considerably primarily based on components mentioned beforehand. Typically, count on to pay between $15 and $40 per pound, with larger costs for Prime grade, pre-cut parts, and specialty distributors.
Query 2: Why is beef tenderloin dearer than different cuts of beef?
The tenderloin’s tenderness, derived from its location throughout the animal and lack of strenuous use, contributes to its premium pricing. Restricted provide relative to different cuts additional influences the upper price.
Query 3: How does the grade of beef tenderloin have an effect on its value?
USDA grades (Prime, Selection, Choose) straight correlate with marbling and tenderness. Prime, with the very best marbling, instructions the very best value, adopted by Selection, then Choose. Increased grades replicate elevated tenderness and richer taste, justifying the value variations.
Query 4: Is it cheaper to purchase a complete tenderloin or pre-cut parts?
Buying a complete tenderloin usually affords a cheaper price per pound. Nevertheless, it requires trimming and portioning. Pre-cut parts supply comfort however come at a premium value on account of added processing and packaging.
Query 5: How can one discover cost-effective beef tenderloin with out compromising high quality?
Evaluating costs throughout completely different distributors (butcher retailers, supermarkets, on-line retailers), contemplating Selection grade as an alternative of Prime, and buying a complete tenderloin as an alternative of pre-cut parts can yield price financial savings with out sacrificing vital high quality.
Query 6: Are there particular occasions of 12 months when beef tenderloin is inexpensive?
Whereas seasonal value fluctuations are much less pronounced for beef tenderloin than different merchandise, search for potential gross sales or promotions after main holidays or in periods of decrease demand. Monitoring retailer ads and flyers can reveal cost-effective buying alternatives.
Understanding these pricing dynamics empowers shoppers to make knowledgeable buying selections aligned with price range and desired high quality. Strategic planning, vendor comparability, and consciousness of promotional cycles contribute to maximizing worth and having fun with this premium lower with out overspending.
The next part will delve into particular cooking methods and preparation strategies for beef tenderloin, maximizing its inherent tenderness and taste.
Ideas for Optimizing Beef Tenderloin Purchases
Cautious consideration of buying methods maximizes the worth derived from this premium lower. The next suggestions supply steerage for knowledgeable decision-making, balancing price and high quality.
Tip 1: Examine Costs Throughout A number of Distributors: Tenderloin costs can fluctuate considerably between butcher retailers, supermarkets, specialty shops, and on-line retailers. Diligent comparability buying identifies essentially the most aggressive pricing for desired high quality and grade.
Tip 2: Think about Selection Grade: Whereas Prime grade affords distinctive marbling and tenderness, Selection grade supplies a steadiness between high quality and cost-effectiveness. Selection tenderloin, with correct cooking methods, delivers a satisfying culinary expertise at a cheaper price level.
Tip 3: Buy a Entire Tenderloin When Doable: Shopping for a complete, untrimmed tenderloin usually yields a cheaper price per pound in comparison with pre-cut parts. Whereas requiring trimming and portioning abilities, this strategy maximizes worth and minimizes waste.
Tip 4: Monitor Gross sales and Promotions: Retailers ceaselessly supply particular promotions on beef tenderloin, notably round holidays or throughout particular gross sales occasions. Monitoring these promotions can result in vital price financial savings.
Tip 5: Plan Forward and Freeze Extra Parts: A complete tenderloin will be portioned and frozen for later use. Correct freezing methods, equivalent to vacuum sealing, preserve high quality and reduce freezer burn, permitting enjoyment over an prolonged interval.
Tip 6: Think about Various Cuts for Budgetary Constraints: If tenderloin’s value exceeds budgetary limits, discover different cuts like sirloin or strip steak, which supply flavorful alternate options at cheaper price factors.
Tip 7: Consider Packaging Choices: Packaging influences each value and preservation. Vacuum-sealed choices lengthen shelf life however might price barely extra. Think about storage wants and consumption timelines when evaluating packaging selections.
Implementing these methods empowers shoppers to make knowledgeable buying selections. Balancing price concerns with desired high quality attributes ensures a satisfying and cost-effective culinary expertise.
The concluding part supplies a complete abstract of key takeaways and reinforces the significance of knowledgeable buying selections for this premium lower of beef.
Understanding Beef Tenderloin Pricing
A number of components affect beef tenderloin pricing. Weight, grade, vendor, and packaging selections contribute to price variations. Entire tenderloins usually supply decrease per-pound prices in comparison with pre-cut parts. Increased grades, equivalent to USDA Prime, command premium costs on account of superior marbling and tenderness. Specialty butchers usually value larger on account of experience and customized service, whereas supermarkets supply aggressive pricing. Understanding these components empowers knowledgeable buying.
Strategic buying optimizes worth. Evaluating costs throughout distributors, contemplating different grades, and monitoring gross sales are essential methods. Recognizing the trade-offs between comfort and value, equivalent to buying a complete tenderloin versus pre-cut parts, permits for knowledgeable selections. Finally, knowledgeable buying maximizes culinary enjoyment whereas respecting budgetary constraints. Cautious consideration of those components ensures a satisfying expertise with this prized lower of beef.
