Grass-Fed Revolution

Veterinary Science and Ag Economics

Each person eats on average 59.7 pounds of beef per year (2010)

Compared to:◦ 48.0 pounds of pork◦ Approximately 82 pounds of chicken

How much beef do we eat?

The grass-fed cow, which eats from a pasture and is not "finished" on a diet of grains and supplements for rapid weight gain

What is a Grass-fed cow?

A grain fed cow/ steer is one that has been raised in pastures, then finished on a grain and forage diet

What is a Grain-fed cow?

Said to be: Better for the planet (less energy goes

into growing grass than grain) Better for the beef eater (less overall fat,

and more omega-3s and other "good" fats) Better for the steer (critics call feedlot

practices as inhumane)

Benefits of grass-fed

A feedlot steer can grow to slaughter weight (1200 lbs) up to a year faster than a cow fed only forage, grass, and hay

The feedlot process also enhances fat marbling, which is one factor that determines a cut of beef's USDA rating ◦ the more fat within the red meat, the richer the

taste, the higher the grade

Benefits of grain fed

Grain fed beef

Grass fed beef

The cons

Grass-Fed Beef Grain-Fed Beef

Smaller carcass Grows slower (up to a

year longer) Less marbling Increased cost

Higher fat and calorie content

Negative publicity High concentration of

grains in diet

As a cook, you will notice: Sometimes a lot darker color Often with less marbling Yellow colored fat vs. white fat Taste, usually non-traditional flavor

Is grass-fed different?

Omega-6 are saturated fatty acids Omega-3 are unsaturated fatty acids

The Price

Grass Fed Beef Grain Fed Beef

Ground beef: $8.49 per pound ◦ Last year $4.99 per

pound Boneless Chuck Roast:

$7.99 New York Steak:

$18.99

Ground beef: $4.49 per pound◦ Last year $2.69 per

pound Boneless Chuck Roast:

$5.99 New York Steak:

$10.99