Grass-Fed Beef

Beef that has been raised almost exclusively on grass rather than grain or commercially produced cattle feed. This method of raising cattle and marketing the beef is becoming increasingly popular with consumers due to its natural aspects. The beef is usually more expensive than standard beef even though the meat is often less juicy than beef raised on commercial cattle feed. Grass-fed beef has less marbling, the intramuscular fat, which is so important in providing the meat with flavor and juiciness. However, grass-fed beef does have a higher degree of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial in reducing cholesterol and lowering the risk of stroke and heart disease.

It is important to read the label carefully when choosing grass-fed beef. Many consumers have the mistaken idea that grass-fed indicates that the beef is also organic, but the label would clearly state whether or not the beef is organic. The pasture where the cattle grazed may have been treated with pesticides in which case the beef cannot be labeled organic.