When it comes to selecting beef, you’re faced with a significant decision: grain-finished or grass-finished. You might also hear these terms referred to as grain fed or grass fed. So, let’s dive into what these terms mean and why they matter.

Grass-finished and grain-finished refer to the diet that the cow was raised on. Grass-finished indicates that the animal’s diet consisted exclusively of grass, hay (dried grass), and other plant-based forages. On the other hand, grain-finished cattle also consume grass, hay, and forages, but their diet includes processed grains like corn, soy, wheat, and other feeds. It’s worth noting that both groups of cows receive mineral supplements and salt as part of their diet.

From a consumer’s standpoint, the taste is one of the most noticeable distinctions between the two. Grass-finished cattle boast a richer, beefier flavor and a firmer fat texture. Conversely, a grain fed cow tends to have a milder taste and a softer fat. When it comes to cooking, grass-finished beef performs best when cooked at lower temperatures and for shorter durations. Applying too much heat for too long can result in toughness. So, if you prefer your steaks cooked beyond medium, it’s likely that grass-finished beef isn’t your ideal choice!

However, the most significant difference between the two lies in their nutritional content. Grass-finished beef contains higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which play a vital role in heart and brain health. Exclusively forage fed beef also boasts 1.5 times more ascorbate (Vitamin C) compounds and tends to have B Vitamin levels that are 2-3 times higher. Notably, it also stands out with its niacin content, a form of B3, which is a remarkable 9 times higher compared to grain-finished beef. Niacin is important for supporting your nervous system, digestive system, and skin health. Additionally, grass-finished beef is lower in calories, lower in fat, and higher in protein.

When looking at the big picture, grass-finished beef emerges as the superior choice from a health perspective. Of course, there are also other considerations like the environment and animal welfare. We’ll talk more about these aspects in a future post!  All of these factors combined for our passion for raising and enjoying grass-finished beef.