Benefits of Grain-free Beef
When we quit milking last June, we were fortunate enough to be able to keep 20 of our favorite cows. This not only kept my heart from fully breaking that day, but it allowed us a way of transitioning to a beef herd by using cows that were already familiar with us, the farm, and our management style. Rather than starting from scratch with a whole new herd, we opted to buy a Red Devon bull to breed the milk cows as well as a few Red Devon heifers. Our dairy cows had been on a grain-free diet since 2013, and I totally fell in love with the art of rotational grazing, so we were pretty set on continuing our management style of only feeding hay and pasture. We chose the Red Devon breed because they are known for their high-quality meat, excellent grazing ability, and their docile temperament (extremely important since I typically move the cows to new pasture with my 3-yr-old in tow!). They are a heritage breed that originated in England and are well-suited for pasture-based farming systems. When fed only grass and hay, Red Devon cattle produce meat that is flavorful, tender, well-marbled, and leaner than beef from grain-fed cattle. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in grass-fed beef due to its numerous health benefits and positive impact on the environment. Unlike conventionally raised cattle that are fed grain-based diets, grass-fed cows graze on pasture, resulting in meat that is not only tastier (in my humble opinion) but also healthier for consumers. Below are some of the benefits of choosing grass-fed beef:
1. High Omega-3 Levels: Grass-fed beef is known to have higher levels of Omega-3 fatty acids compared to grain-fed beef. Omega-3s play a crucial role in supporting heart health, reducing inflammation, and improving brain function. By consuming grass-fed beef, you can easily increase your intake of these essential fatty acids.
2. Rich in CLA: Another significant advantage of grass-fed beef is its high concentration of Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA). CLA is a type of healthy fat that has been associated with various health benefits, including weight management, improved metabolism, and reduced risk of heart disease. Grass-fed beef is a great natural source of CLA, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
3. Other Nutritional Benefits: Grass-fed beef is also packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins A and E, as well as minerals like zinc and iron. These nutrients are vital for supporting overall health and immunity, making grass-fed beef a nutritious protein option for health-conscious individuals.
4. Environmental Benefits: The benefits of grass-fed beef extend beyond personal health to environmental well-being. Cattle raised on pasture through rotational grazing practices help restore and maintain soil health. Grazing cattle help aerate the soil, improve water retention, and promote biodiversity, contributing to the sustainability of the land.
With its Omega-3 and CLA rich nutritional profile, choosing grass-fed beef can be a wholesome choice for both your health and the planet. Supporting pasture-raised, grass-fed cattle contributes to environmentally friendly farming practices that benefit soil health and biodiversity. Next time you're shopping for beef, consider opting for grass-fed varieties to nourish your body and support sustainable agriculture practices!