Elias Farm is proud to state that it produces the best pasture-raised meat. However, what does our animals’ pasture-raised status imply to you and your family? Why and how can it be instrumental for your health and nutritional growth? And why should you be concerned about them?
Firstly, it’s crucial to know and understand the term’ Pasture-Raised,’ which refers to the animals brought up under natural treatment irrespective of any factory or cruel environment. These pasture-raised animals from our partner farms are grass-fed, hormone-free, and non-GMO.
Further, regarding the nutritional concerns of consuming it, we are all aware of the necessity of meat as a source of protein. Eating meat doesn’t harm you if you consume heart-healthy options like lean red meat, fish, and chicken.
One Fact states, “An effective method for active adults to obtain the complete protein they require is to consume two grams per kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of body weight daily. The nine necessary amino acids, the biological building blocks of protein, are all present in total proteins”.
If you weigh 100 pounds, your daily protein intake should be about 30 grams, equivalent to an eight-ounce steak or a chopped chicken salad.
What Is a Pasture-Raised Animal?
An animal is considered pasture-raised if grown outside and has access to grass as it emerges from the ground. Although they might not always live on pasture, free-range animals need access to the outdoors; pasture-raised animals do.
If meat isn’t labeled as such, it’s possible that it originated from a farm animal that lived its whole life on a traditional feedlot with little access to fresh pasture. This affects the animal’s general quality of life, the quality of the food it was fed, and the flavor and nutritional value of the meat it produced when it was harvested.
Here are some of the benefits of Pasture-raised meat:
1. Exceptional Nutritional Advantages
Beef raised on grass is rich in essential nutrients necessary for overall wellness. It has a lot of protein, which is vital for building and repairing muscles. Furthermore, compared to grain-fed cattle, grass-fed beef has higher levels of niacin, B6, and B12. These vitamins are necessary for the body to produce and boost energy, the brain to function, and the nervous system to be healthy. It is full of antioxidants and rich in Vitamin E and vitamin K2, which is a sound source of calcium for the body.
Additionally, grass-fed beef is a great way to get minerals like iron, zinc, and selenium. These minerals are essential for many body processes, such as energy metabolism, immune system support, and antioxidant action. Beef raised on grass has up to five times the amount of omega-3 fatty acids as beef raised on grains. Omega-3 is responsible for heart-strengthening, reduced inflammation, and increased cognitive function.
2. Grass-Fed has Electrolytes
The keto flu is a common problem among those starting a ketogenic diet. When electrolytes aren’t replaced after being flushed out, it leads to keto flu, which is common among those following a ketogenic diet. Magnesium, potassium, and sodium are the three primary electrolytes.
Thankfully, grass-fed meat provides sufficient levels of the three necessary electrolytes. One grass-fed cooked fish contains 400 milligrams of potassium, 20-30 milligrams of magnesium, and 130 milligrams of salt.
3. Grass-fed Beef Aids with Cancer Prevention
One of the most potent nutrients that can prevent cancer is thought to be CLA. Regarding conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), meat from grass-fed cows contains almost twice as much beef from cows fed grain. CLA is exceptional since it’s one of the few naturally occurring nutrients with anticancer qualities in meat, unlike most naturally occurring nutrients with anticarcinogenic attributes in plant foods.
One factual data depicts that women who consumed large amounts of foods high in CLA had a nearly 60% lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who drank little to no CLA at all.
4. Sustainable Environment
The amount of carbon found in the soil is astounding. It surpasses the combined contents of the earth’s atmosphere and plant life. It is better if we can retain more carbon in the soil. Carbon won’t be released into the atmosphere where we don’t want it if it remains in the ground. Further, Ground-in carbon imparts various benefits such as cleaner water, minimizing soil erosion, enriching the soil, and more plentiful and nutrient crops. Moreover, grazing animals deposit their excrement, or biodiverse fertilizer, onto the soil, forming a layer of protection that traps carbon below. Yes, raising animals in pastures retains environmental sustainability.
5. Without hormones or Antibiotics
Customers may confidently choose grass-fed beef, knowing that the meat is pure and natural. Further, grass-fed beef is produced without antibiotics and growth hormones, sometimes given to grain-fed cattle. Hence, grass-fed beef is a healthier and cleaner choice because it contains no artificial ingredients that could cause negative consequences.
6. Ethical Implications
The idea that organic meat is morally superior is questioned when it turns out that there isn’t much of a difference in animal care between non-organic and organic farms. Customers may want to reevaluate their decisions if they select organic meat because they believe it would improve animal welfare. It is essential when alternatives such as pasture-raised poultry and lamb emphasize natural diets and ethical treatment.
Before You Leave!
Selecting meat from pastures is a deliberate choice and serves valuable benefits that can be ignored, such as supporting the values of environmental conservation, animal welfare, and human health. Regarding taste, quality, and ethical considerations, many consumers feel that pasture-grown meat justifies the higher price than conventionally farmed beef.
Selecting pasture-raised meats from Elias Farm also benefits the environment. Besides, local farmers depend on our support to maintain their businesses and protect their land. By lowering food miles, you are lessening the environmental impact of food transportation.
Hence, the next time you buy meat, opt for pasture-raised cuts like those from EliasFarm and contribute what’s best for the environment, your community, and yourself. We are your partners in helping you make healthy food choices.
