At a time of changing food trends, demand for grass-fed beef continues to rise. In fact, some estimates place the growth in demand for grass-fed beef at 25 percent or more per year over the past decade. These are a few reasons why demand for grass-fed beef in Ontario continues to increase.
Consumers are increasingly concerned about the nutritional value of foods that they eat. This is probably to be expected since health and nutrition information is easier to access than at any time in history. Fat and calories are a traditional concern with beef when compared to other protein sources. Grass-fed beef, however, typically has about 50 percent fewer calories and 65 percent less fat than corn-finished beef.
The prophylactic use of antibiotics in farm animals is also becoming a significant concern for many people. A growing body of evidence suggests that human consumption of beef that contains antibiotics may be unhealthy. Grass-fed animals, however, are often raised without the use of antibiotics.
A growing number of people are also beginning to understand the importance of good stewardship of land. Traditional beef production may involve over-grazing of pastureland while also encouraging the spread of mono-crop agriculture to grow corn for animal feed. Grass-fed cattle are raised in rotated pastures while over-grazing is carefully avoided.
Concern about animal welfare is yet another reason for the growth in demand for grass-fed beef. To be sure, some people may stop eating meat altogether out of concerns about the inhumane treatment of farm animals. Many people, however, are realizing that there is another option. Choosing grass-fed beef provides an assurance that the animals were raised ethically in a natural, pastured environment rather than in a feed lot.
Wilderness Ranch proudly raises grass-fed beef in Ontario as well as organic and pasture-raised pork and chicken. We manage our land naturally and believe it is our duty to manage the land sustainably. Contact us at 519-504-5102 to learn more about our grass-fed and pasture-raised meats or to place your order.
Grass Fed and Pasture Raised Meat orders that are over $300.00 DELIVER FREE to Toronto, GTA, Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and Stratford.
Mark Erb
Author