The Implications Of Grass-Fed Beef Farms



Before 1990, numerous farmers used to fatten their animals by feeding them on grain and soy in addition to different supplements. They provided the supplements to the animals in the feedlots. But recently, there has been a developing pattern among farmers in having the cattle on ranches at home. They are then provided with grass pasture. Farms that offer such native feeding to its animals is what is referred to as a grass-fed beef farms.

These pasture based farmers do not make use of hormones in treating their animals. They also do not nourish them with additives to enhance their growth. It is because of this kind of treatment that ensures a natural growth of the animals. Such animals lead a healthy and stress free life. They thus need less antibiotic and other medical attention.

The sole benefit of this type of farming is that their products are more nutritious and healthier. For example, comparing feedlot meat and grass fed beef meat, the pasture fed beef has far less total fat, cholesterol, saturated fat and calories. The meat also contains more vitamin E, vitamin C and beta carotene among other health promoting fats such as Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) and omega 3 fatty acids.

The high levels of fatty substances known as omega 3 contained in their meat are reported to as exceptionally healthy. They essentially lower the growth of a broad array of cancers, preventing their spread. The fatty acids also enhance the recovery rate after undergoing cancer surgery.

The animal study suggests further that the people with cancer and having high levels of this acid in their tissues are likely to respond well to chemotherapy. This is opposed to people having low omega 3 levels.Omega 3 is contained and formed in green leaves (in chloroplasts). This explains why pasture-fed animals stand a high chance of having more omegas compared to grain fed animals.

The art of grass fed farming requires more skill and knowledge than mere taking animals to the feedlot. In an effort to produce much tender and succulent meat animals, one has to feed them on quality grass and leguminous plants. This feeding should be more intense and sensitive, that is more quality feed, as the animal becomes more ready for slaughter. The farmer on his part should enhance a healthy and productive soil and carry out a continuous pasture management. A good soil will produce quality feed, which is paramount in quality animal products. The rest is left to the animal.

In spite of the fact that the grain, animal products are fairly affordable and convenient, the profoundly mechanized operations employed have produced much concern. The practice abuses and stresses the animals. It also misuses such drugs as antibiotics and hormones and results in produce with low nutritional value.

The method of pasture farming has for long been criticized as old fashion and unprofitable. However, this is the most balanced and more secure system. The choice on what to consume IS personal but be sure to opt for grass based products to remain healthy. This move is environmentally friendly, healthful and supportive among small scale farmers. It is thus a three win situation.

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