The word organic gets used a lot when describing food items, but it’s not always an accurate term.
A good example of this is with grass-fed beef. Although certain regulations use the term organic, it can mostly be used as a buzzword to advertise a product.
On the other hand, there are regulations on what kind of beef production can be called grass-fed. If you’re still a bit confused, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
What Is Grass-Fed Beef?
Grass-fed beef is a relatively new concept in the United States. Before the early 21st century, cattle were mostly raised in feedlots and fed a grain and soy diet.
However, many ranchers have begun raising cattle on pastures where they eat grass and other forage.
The term “grass-fed beef” is not regulated by the USDA so it can mean different things to different people. In general, grass-fed beef comes from cattle raised on pasture and has had little or no grain in its diet.
Grass-Fed vs. Grain-Fed
Regarding beef, there are two main types of feeding systems – grass-fed and grain-fed. As the name suggests, grass-fed beef comes from cows that have been raised on a diet of grass and other forage.
On the other hand, grain-fed beef comes from cows fed a diet of grains like corn and soy.
So, what’s the difference between these two types of beef? Well, grass-fed beef is generally leaner and has more omega-3 fatty acids than grain-fed beef.
It also tends to be higher in certain vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and beta-carotene. Meanwhile, grain-fed beef is typically richer in flavor and juicier than grass-fed beef.
Where Can You Buy Grass Fed Beef?
There are a few things to consider when purchasing grass-fed beef. One is the cost, as it is typically more expensive than grain-fed beef. Another is the taste, as it can be slightly gamey.
Finally, you need to consider where you can buy it. Here are a few options for where to purchase grass-fed beef.
Your local supermarket will likely have a section for organic or grass-fed beef. If you don’t see it, ask the butcher if they have any. Health food stores are another option, as they typically sell grass-fed beef.
You can also purchase it online from a variety of wholesale meat suppliers. Assuming you’re looking for the highest quality beef, your best bet is to purchase it directly from a farmer.
This way, you can be sure the cows were raised on grass and not given any hormones or antibiotics.
What Beef Is Best?
So, which type of beef is better? That’s really a matter of personal preference.
Some people prefer the taste and texture of grain-fed beef, while others prefer the healthier attributes of grass-fed beef. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of beef is right for you.
Want to read more about the benefits of grass-fed beef? Check out our other articles to learn more!
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