- Grass-fed beef ranching is not only good for the animals, but involves managing natural resources and supporting local producers.
- Good for the animals. Grass-fed cattle eat what their systems process readily and they live in a more natural habitat.
- Manages natural resources. Vegetation on properly managed pasture helps to maintain the soil, filters and controls run-off.
- Supports local producers. Most grass-fed ranchers are either independent, selling beef from only their own property or belong to a small, locally focused producer group.
- Grass-fed beef is a leaner choice and has a more favorable ratio of omega fatty acids. More on the health benefits.
- A leaner choice. Because grass-fed cattle are typically leaner than cattle that are fed grain, almost all cuts have less fat than grain-finished beef.
- A better fat ratio. Meat from animals that spend their entire lives grazing has a more favorable ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids.
- Starts with nature. For beef cattle, grazing provides the most natural diet. Their digestive systems readily convert grasses, legumes and herbaceous plants into protein.
- Grass-fed beef is priced fairly for the producer and is worth every penny. Learn why.
- Can cost more to produce. It takes longer to bring grass-fed cattle to market, so there’s more cost involved in raising them.
- Is priced fairly for the producer. Because grass-fed cattle are not finished with grain, they usually weigh less than grain-finished cattle, yet can cost the producer as much or more to raise.
- Is worth every penny. Many people believe that ranching more sustainably by taking care of the environment and helping local communities is worth paying more for.