Local Beef vs. 100% Grass Fed Beef

Here at Natural Contents, we’re often asked the difference between local beef – conventional practice vs. 100% grass fed.

Local Beef: Some local farmers do put their animals on pasture and they eat lots of grass yet supplement with conventional feed – this is not 100% grass fed. However, when selling, they will use the term “grass fed”.

Your job, ask questions – is this animal 100% grass fed and finished? If the cows are receiving grain as supplement – be sure to ask if the grain is organic. If the grain is not organic, it most likely contains GMOs.

Local 100% Grass Fed Beef: While it may not be certified organic, this is the best beef you can purchase. Of course, knowing a farmers’ practice is key – so be sure to ask. What you’re looking for is pasture raised, 100% grass fed and finished beef.

Great sources for 100% grass fed beef locally: Chaljeri Farm (Callicoon, NY), The Anthill Farm (Honesdale, PA), Stone & Thistle Farm (Delaware County, NY).

Also, something to consider, cows are not meant to eat grain – watch this video – Joe Salatin explains.

Lastly, I would advocate that purchasing local/regional meats (conventional or 100% grass fed and finished/organic practice) is still better for you than grocery store (factory farmed) meat.

We’ll dive further into this topic in the weeks ahead – please leave a comment if you have a question you would like answered. Please note, this post pertains to Sullivan County, NY and the local surrounding area.