The way farms feed cows have significant impacts on the nutritional composition, flavour, and tenderness of the beef we consume.
Conventionally raised cattle will be fed a diet of their mother’s milk and grass, however they will likely also receive various supplemental feeds, such as soy, corn, protein supplements, and grain by-products. Also, because they are not free to roam, they are injected with antibiotics to prevent the spread of diseases. This isn't good news for the end meat product.
The beef we supply here at G.J. Honour is purely grass fed. This means the cows spend their whole lives roaming free and eating high quality grass and plants. Another term for these cows is pasture-raised cattle.
Unlike conventionally-raised cows, these cattle don’t consume an unnatural diet, like grain by-products, soy, or corn. Because grass-finished cattle roam the pasture and are raised in a more natural way, you'll find the meat not only tastes better but it's better for you too.
Here are just some of the benefits of consuming grass fed beef:
A happier animal
Conventionally raised cows live in cramped conditions that can cause stress and elevate their cortisol levels and result in thicker fat tissue in the meat. Whilst pasture-fed cows enjoy a carefree life roaming the fields and grazing as they please with very little emotional stress. This results in a leaner and healthier meat.
Better taste
As the cows roam the meadow pastures, they graze on a variety of grass, wildflowers and plants, untainted by chemicals and pesticides. This translates into a wonderful deep, rich flavour in the meat which cannot be replicated with grain fed cattle.
Nutritional benefits
Grass fed beef contains much more Omega-3 fatty acids that are essential for cognitive functions, hormonal health, cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory responses, and healthier skin. You'll also find it's higher in vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, compared to conventionally-raised beef.
Better for the environment
Cows produce large amounts of methane throughout their lifetime, which is a more potent greenhouse gas compared to carbon dioxide. Grass fed cows use rotational grazing methods that better regulates the emission of methane. The manure has high organic value, which enriches the soil and ensures the sustainability of the pasture.
Browse our full range of Grass Fed Beef at G.J. Honour and taste the difference for yourself.