Grass-Fed meat is healthier, better for the environment, and more profitable for the farmer. It should come as no surprise that the supply of 100% grass-fed beef is on the growth.
What is Grass Fed beef, exactly?
Grass Fed beef refers to the animal’s diet, which includes herbs, flowers, clover, and other legumes, collectively referred to as ‘pasture.’
In recent years, there has been an increase in interest among producers and customers for 100% grass-fed beef. Pasture for Life certification is now held by over 70 farms in the United Kingdom (more on that later).
Difference Between Grass Fed Vs Grain Fed Beef
That is how life begins for most cows in the United States.
The calves are born in early spring, drink their mother’s milk, and are free to roam and eat whatever grass or other edible plants they find.
It lasts for about 7-9 months—most of the conventionally reared cows send to feedlots.
Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations refer to large feedlots (CAFOs). Cows are kept in small, cramped stalls with little space.
Grain-based feeds, usually made from soy or corn, use to thicken them quickly. Small amounts of dry grass are normally included in their diet as well.
The cows spend a few months in these feedlots before being taken to the slaughterhouse.
Of course, it’s not that easy. The different eating patterns are complex and varied.
For example, grass-fed beef in Australia cannot directly compare to grass-fed beef in the United States, and grass-fed beef is not always pasture. Not all cows that eat grass can graze outside.
Being grass-fed is not for a reasonable period.
On the other hand, grass-eating cows eat (mostly) grass, so grain-eating cows eat an unnatural diet (primarily) based on corn in their later years.
Medications such as antibiotics and growth hormones are again and again given to cows to maximize their growth of cows.
Antibiotics considered necessary in human medicine must manage under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian and cannot be used to promote growth following this law.
Why Is Grass-Fed Beef Considered Better For Your Health?
Grass fed beef is leaner than grain fed beef but contains more beneficial fats, such as omega 3.
People who eat grass-fed beef have healthier essential fat levels than those who eat grain-fed beef, according to a study published in the British Journal of Nutrition.
In addition, according to several studies, animals that eat grass entirely currently share more vitamins and minerals such as beta-carotene and vitamin E.
But how much better is it for you?
That is where it gets interesting. Plants produce potent antioxidants to protect themselves from UV rays, disease, and premature aging; when cows digest this pasture, their fat stores’ nutrients, which are passes on to humans when they eat their beef.
Most cows start on a pasture, drinking milk and eating grass. However, conventionally raised cows are later moved to feedlots and fed mainly grain-based feeds.
What Are The Benefits of Grass Fed Beef To The Environment?
The environment should raise animals entirely on pasture rather than a mixture of hay and grain.
Clover-rich pastures do not require the use of any fertilizers or pesticides, including nitrates, which are a significant source of harmful carbon emissions according to Graham Harvey, author of Grass Fed Nation and agricultural advisor for the BBC’s The Archers.
This process is superior to industrial livestock feeding on a diet of soy and corn (also known as cereals). The production of which has resulted in monoculture farming and deforestation.
Cattle are encouraging to graze on pasture, which improves soil fertility. That is important in terms of reducing carbon emissions.
According to an experiment on the stability of garden food and cultivated crops in the United Kingdom. The sand under the grassland retains higher levels of carbon and more organic matter in 30 years than intensively cultivated soil.
Make a comparison. If you are interested in learning more about agriculture and sustainable development, please read our interview with the Director of the Sustainable Food Trust to learn how to achieve a more sustainable diet.
The Bottom Line
Despite all the buzz around nutrition, most people agree that real food is the most important thing.
Some people like to take it a step further and only eat real food from real animals. grass fed vs grain fed beef, after all, provides cows with a more natural diet than corn and soy.
Your decision is base on your personal preferences and values.
