2025

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July 17, 2025

Nutritional Benefits of Grassfed Beef: Why It’s a Healthier Option
Discover the nutritional benefits of grassfed beef. Learn why it’s a healthier choice compared to conventional beef with higher Omega-3s, healthier fats, more antioxidants, and no hormones or antibiotics.

When it comes to choosing meat, the growing debate between grassfed and grain-fed options often leaves consumers wondering which is truly better for their health. While both types of meat are rich in protein, grassfed and pastured meat stands out due to its superior nutritional profile. Raised on a natural diet of grass, grassfed meat offers a variety of health benefits that conventional meat, which is typically fed grain, simply can’t match. Let’s dive into the key nutritional differences that make grassfed meat the healthier choice.

1. Higher Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining heart health, supporting brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body. While both grassfed and grain-fed meat contain omega-3s, grassfed meat has a significantly higher concentration. Studies show that grassfed meat contains two to four times more omega-3 fatty acids than conventional beef, making it a great source of these essential fats.

Omega-3s play a crucial role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease, promoting cognitive function, and supporting overall inflammation control in the body. Since most people don’t consume enough omega-3-rich foods, grassfed beef provides an excellent source of these important fats.

2. Better Fat Profile: Less Saturated Fat, More Healthy Fats

Grassfed meat is leaner than grain-fed ones, meaning it contains less total fat overall. This reduction in fat is particularly noticeable in the amount of saturated fat, which is associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Grassfed meat tends to have lower levels of saturated fat compared to conventional beef.

What sets grassfed meat apart, however, is its healthier fat profile. Grassfed meat contains more monounsaturated fats, which are known to help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL), contributing to better heart health. Additionally, grassfed meat has a higher concentration of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a type of fat that has been linked to fat loss, improved immune function, and enhanced metabolism.

3. Rich in Antioxidants and Vitamins

Grassfed and pastured meat offers more than just healthy fats—it also comes packed with vitamins and antioxidants that contribute to overall wellness. Because grassfed cattle eat a natural diet of grass, their beef is rich in vitamins A and E, both of which are powerful antioxidants. These vitamins help protect the body’s cells from damage caused by free radicals, support immune function, and promote healthy skin.

Grassfed meat also contains higher amounts of beta-carotene, which gives the meat a distinct yellowish hue. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which plays a vital role in eye health, skin health, and immune function.

4. More Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA)

CLA is a fatty acid found in higher amounts in grassfed meat compared to grain-fed ones. CLA has been widely studied for its potential health benefits, including its ability to reduce body fat, improve insulin sensitivity, and support heart health. Some research suggests that CLA may also have anti-cancer properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

Because grassfed meat contains more CLA, it provides an easy way to include this beneficial compound in your meals. While CLA is also found in dairy products from grassfed cows, their meat remains one of the richest sources.

5. Lower Calorie Content

Since grassfed and pastured meat is leaner than grain-fed meat, it typically contains fewer calories. For those looking to manage their weight, grassfed beef can be a great addition to a balanced diet, providing high-quality protein without the extra fat and calories associated with conventional beef. Lower calorie content can also help prevent overconsumption of unhealthy fats, making grassfed and pastured beef a better option for those trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

6. Higher Protein Quality

Both grassfed and grain-fed meat are excellent sources of protein, but grassfed meat contains a slightly higher proportion of muscle-building amino acids. These amino acids are the building blocks of protein and play a key role in tissue repair, muscle growth, and overall body function. Additionally, grassfed meat provides all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source ideal for supporting muscle mass and overall health.

7. No Hormones or Antibiotics

One significant advantage of grassfed and pastured beef over conventional beef is that it is less likely to contain added hormones or antibiotics. Many conventionally raised cattle are treated with growth hormones to promote faster growth and prevent disease. However, these hormones can remain in the meat, raising concerns about their long-term effects on human health.

Grassfed beef, on the other hand, is generally raised without the use of synthetic hormones or antibiotics. As a result, it provides a cleaner, more natural source of protein, free from potentially harmful additives.

Final Thoughts: Grassfed and Pastured Beef – A Healthier Choice

When compared to conventional grain-fed beef, grassfed beef shines in terms of nutritional value. From higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to a better fat profile and more protein, grassfed beef offers a range of health benefits that can contribute to better overall wellness. Additionally, the absence of hormones and antibiotics makes it a cleaner and more natural option.

If you’re looking to improve your diet and make more health-conscious food choices, grassfed beef is the clear winner. Not only does it provide superior nutrition, but it also supports sustainable farming practices that are better for the planet. So next time you’re at the store, consider reaching for grassfed beef—it’s a small change that can make a big difference for both your health and the environment.

Resources
June 19, 2025

Why Grassfed Practices Are Key to Supporting Biodiversity on Farms
Biodiversity is essential for healthy ecosystems, and grassfed practices play a crucial role in supporting this natural variety. By focusing on sustainable farming, grassfed methods help promote diverse plant, animal, and insect life. Here’s how these practices are key to building better ecosystems on farms.

What is Biodiversity and Why Does It Matter?

Biodiversity refers to the wide variety of life forms within an ecosystem, including animals, plants, and microorganisms. The greater the diversity, the more resilient the ecosystem becomes. Healthy ecosystems contribute to soil health, water quality, and greater resistance to disease and pests—all of which are essential for long-term farm sustainability.
Grassfed Practices and Their Impact on Biodiversity

Grassfed farming promotes biodiversity through methods that support both environmental health and animal welfare. Here’s how:
- Rotational Grazing: Livestock are rotated through pastures, preventing overgrazing and allowing vegetation to regenerate. This supports new plant growth and attracts insects, birds, and wildlife.
- Soil Health: Grassfed systems emphasize minimal soil disturbance, fostering a rich variety of plant species and microorganisms critical for soil vitality.
- Wildlife Habitat: Open pastures on grassfed farms provide essential habitat for native birds, pollinators, and small mammals, enriching the local ecosystem.
The Environmental Benefits of Grassfed Practices

Grassfed farming is inherently sustainable. It contributes to carbon sequestration by enhancing the soil’s ability to absorb and store carbon, helping mitigate climate change. Grasslands act as carbon sinks, and regenerative grazing practices amplify this benefit, supporting a healthier planet.

Real-Life Examples of Pastured Biodiversity Success

Many farms that implement regenerative practices report positive outcomes, including increased plant diversity, reduced pest issues, and improved soil health. These results contribute to more productive and resilient ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

By supporting pastured practices, you’re investing in more than healthy livestock—you’re supporting thriving ecosystems. Biodiversity boosts environmental health, protects wildlife habitats, and strengthens the long-term sustainability of our food systems.
June 9, 2025

Community Rallies Behind Processing Project
Sometimes, it takes a village to expand a meat processing enterprise.

That was evident recently in the northwestern Colorado town of Craig as Deborah Fitch of Fitch Ranch Artisan Meats guided the mayor, city council members, economic development officials, lenders, and builders through the processing plant she and her husband, Cam, have steadily grown since purchasing it in 2022.

The current facility is bursting at the seams, producing the family’s branded products distributed in regional retail stores and restaurants, and processing beef and pork for fellow ranchers in the area. The point of the tour, and a subsequent meeting with the officials, was to demonstrate the need for a new facility planned across the street from the existing plant.

Last year, the Fitches were awarded a Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program (MPPEP) grant, which will cover a portion of the $28 million project designed to process up to 100 head of cattle daily. Now, they are working to button up financing, navigate the regulatory process and finalize construction details before formally breaking ground.

The Fitch Ranch Artisan Meats expansion project is a bright ray of sunshine in a region clouded in economic uncertainty. Craig was founded as an agricultural community, but coal mining and the construction of a large coal-fired electric generating facility nearby began to replace farming and ranching as the primary economic driver half a century ago. Now, economic shock waves are rippling through the community as the aging power plant is being decommissioned, and the mines are shutting down.

The new meat processing facility will initially employ approximately 100 people and provide new opportunities for area ranchers to process their animals and develop their branded products. However, former coal miners looking to work at Fitch Ranch Artisan Meats will need training and affordable housing.

Craig’s political and economic leaders are stepping up to provide that infrastructure.

“Our economic development team has been working with Deborah and Cam since the beginning,” said Mayor Chris Nichols. “Our role is to develop new housing and infrastructure to support this type of business expansion. This is a great project that will provide jobs and economic development, and in the process, new tax revenue, for our community.”
The MPPEP grant isn’t the only way that USDA is supporting the growth of Fitch Ranch Artisan Meats.

Deborah and Cam were among the first processors nationwide to adopt the new Remote Beef Grading program, which provides an affordable method for smaller processors to market products bearing the USDA Choice and Prime labels. Being able to grade their beef carcasses is crucial for the Fitches, because they are one of the smallest processors in the United States eligible to process and market products under the Certified Angus Beef label.

On the financing side, the couple is working with the Fremont County Economic Development Corporation (FEDC) to access financing that FEDC administers through USDA’s Meat and Poultry Processing Intermediary Lending program.

Diana Armstrong, executive director of FEDC, participated in the recent tour and noted that the project in Craig can help seed new economic development in her region on Colorado’s Eastern Slope.

“As a grantee of the USDA Meat and Poultry Intermediary Loan Program, we’re proud to support the impactful Fitch Artisan Meats project and help expand opportunities for the people of Craig as they transition from coal. As funds revolve, we will reinvest in our Fremont County communities—strengthening both local economies and Colorado’s broader food system,” she noted.

The Fitchs’ expansion project is ambitious, but with the support of their village, area ranchers, former coal miners, and consumers will benefit from this new beacon of economic development in Northwest Colorado.

Tagged: USDAMeatandPoultry, USDAFoodSupplyChain, MPPEP, MPPTAProgram, MPPTA, MeatandPoultryProcessingCapacityTechnicalAssistance
Source: Flowerhill institute
Relevant Links:

American Grassfed Association certification standards and benefits:
https://www.americangrassfed.org/about-us/our-standards/
https://www.americangrassfed.org/the-importance-of-grassfed-certification-ensuring-transparency-and-quality-standards/

Grassfed certification programs and benefits:
https://agreenerworld.org/certifications/certified-grass-fed/
June 6, 2025

Why Grassfed and Pastured Standards Matter More Than You Think

When it comes to choosing high-quality meat and dairy, organic is often the go-to. But grassfed and pasture based standards go beyond USDA organic to offer healthier animals, better nutrition, and sustainability. Let’s explore how grassfed meat stands out from conventional ones in terms of flavor, nutritional value, and sustainability. Dive into the growing trend of grassfed and pasture based systems and how it’s reshaping the meat industry for the better.

What’s the Difference?

While organic certification focuses on no synthetic chemicals or antibiotics, the animals can be fed any products that are certified organic, grains, etc.

Grassfed certification ensures that animals are raised on pasture with a 100% grass (forage) diet.

Healthier Animals, Better Welfare

Grassfed and pastured animals are raised with unfettered access to pasture, natural grazing and behaviors. This low-stress environment supports better health.

Studies show that cattle raised on pasture exhibit better health indicators and more natural behaviors.

Environmental Benefits of Grassfed and Pasture-Based Practices

Grassfed and pasture based farming uses rotational grazing, which helps restore soil health, reduce carbon emissions, and sequester carbon.

Research shows that regenerative grazing practices, including adaptive multipaddock grazing, can significantly mitigate soil degradation and increase carbon sequestration.

Grassfed and Pastured Meat: Nutritional Powerhouse

Grassfed and pastured meat is richer in Omega-3 fatty acids, Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA), and vitamins, all of which are linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. A study published in the Nutrition Journal found that grassfed and pastured products contained up to five times more omega-3s than conventionally raised meat. These beneficial fats are essential for overall health and are present in higher concentrations in grassfed meat.

Choosing grassfed beef means more than just making a healthy choice for yourself—it’s also about supporting local, family-owned farms. These farmers are committed to sustainable, ethical practices, and by purchasing from them, you help strengthen rural economies and create jobs in your community.

How to Choose Authentic Grassfed and Pastured Products

Look for products with the AGA Certified Seal, ensuring that the meat is raised according to strict grassfed and pasture based standards.

Bottom Line

Grassfed and pasture-based standards provide better animal welfare, nutritional value, and environmental sustainability. By choosing grassfed and pasture based products, you’re making a healthier and more ethical choice.

Choosing grassfed and pastured based meat is a way to support sustainable local farming practices and contribute to the economic vitality of rural communities.

Explore the economic benefits of grassfed and pasture based meat and find a local farm near you on the American Grassfed Association website.
May 15, 2025

USDA Finalizes Voluntary “Product of USA” Rule

In March 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) finalized its rule regarding the voluntary use of the labeling terms “Product of USA” and “Made in the USA.” This new rule establishes a requirement that must be met in order for a meat, poultry or egg product to bear a label claiming the product is of U.S.-origin. Under the new rule, a product must be derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. in order to bear the label “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA.” The rule establishes requirements for both single and multi-ingredient products, and creates standards for U.S.-origin labels claiming that components of a product’s preparation or processing occurred in the U.S. The rule does not establish a mandatory U.S.-origin label, but rather creates an opportunity for a voluntary claim of a product’s U.S.-origin if the requirements are met.

USDA regulation and generic labeling

In the U.S., the labeling of meat, poultry, and egg products is regulated by USDA’s Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS). The authority of FSIS to regulate those products is found in the Federal Meat Inspection Act, the Poultry Products Inspection Act, and the Egg Products Inspection Act. Under these acts, FSIS is required to approve the labels of meat, poultry, and egg products. However, FSIS does have a process for the “approval of generic labels.” 9 C.F.R. § 412.2. Under this process, labels that qualify are authorized for use on FSIS regulated products without prior submission and approval from FSIS. Generically approved labels are required to bear mandatory labeling features such as, product name, ingredients statement, and nutrition labeling. The new “Product of USA” voluntary rule will qualify as a generically approved label. For more information on Food Labeling generally, click here to view NALC Food Labeling reading room.

Background of U.S.-origin label claims

The previous rule for U.S.-origin claims is found in the FSIS Food Standards and Learning Policy Book. It allowed the label “Product of USA” on products processed in the U.S. if the country where the product is exported to requires it, or if the product was processed in the U.S. This meant that food products made from animals born, raised, and slaughtered in foreign countries could bear the label “Product of USA” if the product was processed in the U.S. For example, products made from cattle born, raised, and slaughtered in Brazil, but shipped to the U.S. for processing could bear the label “Product of USA” even though the animal never stepped foot on U.S. soil while alive. Many stakeholders were unhappy with this rule and felt that it created a loophole that confused consumers and was unfair to smaller American producers.

There were a number of catalysts that prompted the USDA to make the rule change. Between 2018 and 2021, three petitions regarding the “Product of USA” label were sent to USDA from the following industry associations: the American Grassfed Association and Organization for Competitive Markets (AGA/ OCM), United States Cattlemen’s Association, and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. Click here to read NALC Issue Brief “Petition for Policy Change in FSIS’ ‘Product of USA’ Label” concerning the AGA/OCM petition. Along with the industry association petitions, in 2021, the Biden Administration issued an Executive Order urging the Secretary of Agriculture to update the rules regarding the voluntary “Product of USA” label. Additionally, in 2022, FSIS conducted a consumer web-based survey on “Product of USA” Labeling. The survey showed that 47% of surveyed consumers incorrectly understood the “Product of USA” label to mean the animal was born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. Surveyed consumers also indicated that they do value “Product of USA” label claims, and were willing to pay more for a product when all preparation and processing steps occurred in the U.S. The rule was proposed by USDA in March 2023, and is now finalized after a period of public comment.

Final Rule

Approval of U.S.-origin generic label claims

The new rule creates requirements for the use of voluntary U.S.-origin label claims. Under the new rule, voluntary “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” labels are allowed only on meat, poultry, and egg products when they are derived from animals born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. Specifically, for a single ingredient product the claims “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” may be used under FSIS generic approval on labels to indicate a product derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. “Product of USA” and “Made in the USA” claims may also be used on the labels of multi-ingredient products if 1) all FSIS-regulated products are derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S.; 2) all other ingredients in the product are of domestic origin; and 3) the preparation and processing steps for the multi-ingredient product have occurred in the U.S. The rule makes an exception for spices and flavorings, allowing the inclusion of spices and flavorings of foreign origin. For example, a single ingredient product, such as steak, will be allowed to bear the “Product of USA” label if it is derived from cattle that was born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. Similarly, a multi-ingredient product like pork sausage will be allowed to bear the “Product of USA” label if the meat and other ingredients regulated by FSIS are derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S., all other ingredients in the product, other than spices and flavorings, are of U.S. origin, and the preparation and processing steps occurred in the U.S.

Other U.S.-origin claims

Under the new rule, U.S.-origin claims other than “Product of USA” and “Made in the USA” may be used for generic approval on labels of single and multi-ingredient products when a component of the preparation and processing occurred in the U.S. To use U.S.-origin claims other than “Product of USA” and “Made in the USA,” a label must include a description of the preparation and processing steps that occurred in the U.S. For example, a pork product derived from an animal born, raised, and slaughtered in a foreign country, but processed in the U.S. could bear a label stating, “Packaged in the United States using imported pork.” Additionally, single and multi-ingredient products may bear a U.S. State, territory, or locality-origin claim to both indicate the product’s origin or a component of the preparation and processing steps which occurred in the U.S. State, territory, or locality. Products will only be allowed to make these claims if the requirements set forth for U.S.-origin claims and for U.S. preparation and processing component claims are met. For example, a claim referring to the origin of a meat product bearing the label “Product of Arkansas” must be derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in Arkansas. Similarly, a meat product derived from an animal born, raised, and slaughtered in a foreign country, but sliced and packaged in Alabama may bear a label claiming “Sliced and packaged in Alabama.”

Use of flag

Under the rule, the U.S. flag or a U.S. State or territory flag may be used for both an origin claim, or a component of preparation and processing claim on a single or multi-ingredient product. To use the U.S. flag or U.S. State or territory flag for a claim, the product must meet the requirements set forth for “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” claims, or preparation and processing component claims. To use the flag imagery for a claim relating to a component of preparation or processing that occurred in the U.S., the imagery must be accompanied by a statement describing the steps.

Geographical Significance Labeling

The rule also requires that products bearing a label of geographical significance must comply with the requirements created for voluntary U.S.-origin claims. 9 C.F.R. § 317.8(b)(1) is modified to require that product labels using “statements, words, pictures, designs, or devices” referencing a locality with geographical significance other than the locality where the animal was born, raised, slaughtered, and processed must be qualified by the word “style,” “type,” or “brand.” For example, a hot dog that is “New York-style,” but does not meet the requirements for a multi-ingredient product to bear a “Product of New York” claim can still use the words “New York” in its label as long as it is accompanied by the word “style.” The rule also amends 9 C.F.R. § 381.129(b)(2) to apply the same standard to poultry products.

Country of Origin Labeling

This is not the first time the U.S. has attempted to address origin claims on meat and poultry product labels. In the 2002 Farm Bill, Congress amended the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to require country-of-origin labeling (COOL) at the retail level for fresh fruits and vegetables, peanuts, pecans, macadamia nuts, ginseng, fish, shellfish, and ground and muscle cuts of beefs, lamb, and pork. Following the final COOL rule implementation in 2009, Canada and Mexico challenged the rule, specifically the provisions regarding beef and pork, in a World Trade Organization (WTO) dispute settlement case. Canada and Mexico alleged that COOL distorted trade by treating U.S. livestock more favorably than imported livestock. After years of dispute before different WTO panels, it was determined that COOL violated U.S. WTO obligations. As a result, Congress repealed beef, pork, ground beef and ground pork COOL requirements, and the USDA published a final rule amending the COOL regulations to comply. To read more about COOL, click here to visit NALC COOL reading room.

The new “Product of USA” rule differs from COOL because it is a voluntary label claim. However, this distinction has not stopped Mexico and Canada from voicing concern about potential trade impacts. In a statement released by its Ministry of Economy, Mexico “rejects” the rule, and claims that it would “create barriers in binational production chains.” Mexico alleges the rule is contrary to the “principles of . . . the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).” Mexico prefers to resolve the issue through constructive dialogue with the U.S. but is open to the use of both USMCA and WTO mechanisms to ensure the U.S. complies with its trade commitments. Canada reacted by releasing a joint statement from both its Minster of Agriculture and Agri-Food and Minster of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development. The statement highlights their disappointment in the final rule, and their intention to raise the issue at a trilateral meeting with both the U.S. and Mexico’s agriculture ministers later this month.

Conclusion

The USDA final rule will require that meat, poultry, and egg products bearing a “Product of USA” or “Made in the USA” label must be derived from an animal born, raised, slaughtered, and processed in the U.S. The rule also provides requirements for the use of a U.S.-origin label claiming a component of the product’s preparation and processing occurred in the U.S. Though the rule is voluntary, Mexico and Canada have already expressed concern with its trade impacts. The rule is effective on May 17, 2024, and products choosing to use voluntary U.S.-origin claims must comply by January 1, 2026.

For more information on the COOL WTO dispute with Mexico and Canada, click here for CRS Report “Country-of-Origin Labeling for Foods and the WTO Trade Dispute on Meat Labeling”

Source: https://nationalaglawcenter.org/usda-finalizes-voluntary-product-of-usa-rule/