Last Updated on October 16, 2024
Shopping for beef can be tricky, especially when terms blur and you’re not sure what sets them apart. At ButcherBox, we’re all about helping you eat well, and knowing the difference between grass-fed and grass-finished beef can make all the difference. It means you know what you’re getting, whether picking up a roast at the local store or treating yourself to some mouthwatering steaks from ButcherBox.
100% Grass-Fed vs. Grass Finished vs. Grain Finished: What’s the Difference?
Some common terms you may find when searching for beef include grass-fed, grass-finished and grain-finished beef. Let’s explore what each means.
What is 100% Grass-Fed Beef?
When a label says the beef is grass finished, it means the pastured cattle ate nothing but grass their entire lives. Often marketed as a more natural option, grass-finished mimics the diet of wild cattle, and supporters argue it leads to healthier herds. It also helps the pasture land by improving the soil and reducing erosion.
Eating only grass, however, also affects the taste of the cuts you eat. Grass-finished cuts usually feature a slightly different texture and a more earthy, gamey taste. Many, however, prefer the richer, beefier flavor.
The benefits of 100% grass-finished beef include higher levels of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid that may reduce cancer risks. This type of beef often has more nutrients, such as vitamins A and E, to help you get more out of your meals.
What is Grass-Fed, Grain-Finished Beef?
Grain-finished beef means that cows have been fed grass before eventually transitioning to a grain-based diet, which helps them gain weight and develop more fat. While this practice might seem like a way for farmers to boost profits, grain-finishing actually enhances the quality of the beef. The result is beautifully marbled cuts with a rich, buttery texture and a delicious flavor many people love.
This combination of grass and grain allows conventional farmers to balance the benefits of both methods, producing high-quality beef in a cost-effective and sustainable way. By adding grain to the cattle’s diet, they can provide customers with healthy, well-marbled beef at a lower price point than fully grass-finished options, as grain-finishing is less expensive than extended pasture feeding.
Which Type of Beef Should I Choose?
The type of beef you choose depends on your personal preferences. If your priority is health, 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef offers the leanest cuts and the highest nutritional value. At ButcherBox, our cattle are raised without antibiotics or hormones and graze on open pastures their entire lives, ensuring sustainability, animal welfare and exceptional quality.
Experience the difference with ButcherBox — order our 100% grass-fed, grass-finished beef today and enjoy better, healthier eating.
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