How to shop for grass-fed beef

The world of food labeling could leave you a little confused. Should I be buying organic? Grass-fed? What do the seals mean? 

As I covered in a previous post, when it comes to most food questions, it’s usually not about vilifying a complete food group but rather focusing on quality. To read more about why grass-fed is better, head here. 

Now, you may be asking how do I know I’m getting the right stuff when I’m at the counter at the store? 

In general, you’re looking for a label that says 100% grass fed AND finished. That means that the cows were raised on pasture for their entire lives. Some labels can say just grass-fed, but these cows could have been finished on grain and eaten grass for the majority of time, but not exclusively. That’s why the 100% designation as well as grass finished are important. 

Next, is organic the same as grass-fed? 

Organic is a designation around pesticide use. Farmers and or ranchers must adhere to strict guidelines and only use approved organic amendments in their soil or only feed their animals organic feed. Ideally, meat is organic AND grass-fed. Meaning it was on pastures not treated with chemicals or pesticides. However, it’s possible to have grass-fed beef that was not raised on organic soil. Or organic beef that is not grass-fed. 

Are there any labels I should keep an eye for? 

The Animal Welfare Approved label is a good guide. 

“Certified Animal Welfare Approved by AGW is the only USDA-approved third-party animal welfare food certification label that supports and promotes family farmers who raise their animals with the highest welfare standards, outdoors, on pasture or range.”

Where do I find a producer? 

This may take a little digging or asking, but be sure to talk to the butcher where you shop! Farmer’s markets are great too. You can also search the grass-fed database here: https://www.americangrassfed.org/aga-membership/producer-members/

Finally, I can’t recommend Stemple Creek Ranch enough. This is where I purchase my beef and they ship to the west coast. 

Hopefully that helps simplify the buying process and helps you feel like an empowered eater!

Best, 

Dr. Antonella