What Are The Benefits Of Grassfed Meat

As more consumers have tried to opt for healthier diets, some have turned to grass-fed meat. Some people still have some questions though. Is grass-fed meat better than organic meat? Is there a difference? Do places that offer organic options also offer grass-fed meat? At Organic Restaurants, we can do our best to give you the information you need about something that could end up being a new staple in your diet.

How Grassfed Meat is Different

Grassfed meat is just what it says it is on the package. The animals are raised in open pastures and they’re free to graze. This is different from the traditional factory farm where conventional meat is produced. Those facilities are known for their cramped and uncomfortable living spaces for livestock.

The grass-fed label also means that the meat is free from antibiotics and hormones, which are commonly found in conventional meat. If you just want the meat without the extra ingredients that may not be good for you, grass-fed is the way to go.

Grassfed versus Organic Meat

Organic meat is another healthier alternative to conventional meat, but it differs from grass-fed in a few key ways. Animals used are raised mostly on a blended diet of grain and corn, but they do sometimes graze because organic meat standards also require that cattle get the chance to engage in more “natural” behaviors. This means that they can get out of confined spaces and into open fields, where they obviously might end up eating some grass. They are also free from hormones and antibiotics, and any feed for the animals is GMO-free.

Both grass-fed meat and organic meat are held to high standards, but the standards for grass-fed meat are a bit more strict. If you’re concerned about the source of your meat and looking for the best possible way to mitigate your impact with your food choices, grass-fed meat is the best way to go.

Benefits of Grassfed Meat

More Nutrients: In many cases, grass-fed meat can contain more nutrients and vitamins. Grassfed meat from cattle could contain more vitamin A and vitamin E. These vitamins along with the conjugated linoleic acid, or CLA, also found in grass-fed beef can help reduce cancer risk, and they’re a critical part of any diet that seeks to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Grassfed meat often contains more omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, good fats that can help with heart health.

Less Spread of E.coli: In some cases, being grass-fed can help livestock fend off diseases like e.coli. They have healthier diets and more robust immune systems, and they’re not exposed to some of the diseases and bacteria that could be found on some feedlots.

Lower Levels of Bad Cholesterol: LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as “bad” cholesterol, can be lowered by replacing typical grain-fed meat with grass-fed meat. Grassfed meat contains lower levels of LDL cholesterol and will often make for a lower calorie meal as well.

Your Source for Organic Meat Knowledge

If you have any more questions about organic or grass-fed meat, we’re ready to help. Visit the Organic Restaurants website to learn more about why this might be the best meat option or you or your customers.