Grass Fed VS Grass Finished
- goodinsfamilyfarm
- Jan 9
- 2 min read
Unlike grain-fed beef, grass-fed and grass-fed and grass-finished beef offer a variety of unique benefits that grain-fed beef does not — but what’s the difference between the two?
Though their names sound similar, there are actually a few key differences between grass-fed and grass-finished beef. In this blog, we’ll dive into this popular protein and decide which one is right for you.
Grass-Fed Beef
To use the term “grass-fed,” a cow must have been fed grass in its life; however, USDA regulations do not require grass to be its only source of food. Because of this, many of these cattle finished their final months in a feedlot, eating grain or soy products.
Studies show that eating a natural-based diet filled with grass and other forage can help your cattle be more nutrient-dense and result in a pleasant flavor. However, since grass is not their only source of food, your cattle will not have as many benefits as grass-finished cows.
Grass-Finished Beef
Grass-finished beef is when the cow is able to live by a natural feeding plan, eating exclusively grass and other forage from a pasture. When the cattle are raised correctly, this method of feeding produces beef with significantly higher amounts of omega-3 fatty acids – which is essential for practicing positive heart health – and can result in a more flavorful meat.
Which Is Right for You?
In short, both options are superior to exclusive grain-fed cattle, but if you are looking for the healthiest option, grass-finished beef is the way to go.
While grass-fed beef also produces positive results due to its natural feeding method, some of those benefits start to fade if/when the cattle are finished with grain feeding. Grass-finished beef guarantees your cattle are enjoying the healthiest foods so that you can enjoy all the benefits that come with it.
Prior to ordering your meat from any facility, be sure you are knowledgeable about the farm you are purchasing from.
For more information about grass-fed and grass-finished beef from the experts at Goodin’s Family Farm, please contact us here or call us directly at 513.987.7328.
