

Why Grass fed Beef?

In one sentence: for health and taste. Historically all cattle were grass fed and free ranging, but when the factory farms and feed lots came into existence during the last century, the bottom line became the only motivating factor. It didn't matter that cattle were meant to consume grass and that grain-feeding them disturbed their digestive system so badly that it must be done gradually and with the use of antibiotics to keep them from becoming sick. Cattle on corn can develop feedlot bloat. BSE or Mad Cow Disease has developed in feed lot animals due to the use of animal byproducts. Feed lots also use chicken manure as cattle feed. Another disturbing thing is E.coli 0157:H7 bacteria. Grain feeding cattle increases the acidity of the animals stomach which in turn promoted the growth of E.coli 0157:H7. Grass fed cattle have a lower stomach acidity and consequently a higher resistance to the E.coli bacteria. So what are the other health benefits? Grass fed beef is leaner and is lower in overall and saturated fats. Grass fed cattle are higher in CLA-Conjugated Linoleic Acid (good fat), Vitamin E, and Omega-3. All three are recognized as being necessary for good health.

Michigan Grass Fed Beef and farm fresh vegetables

All of our cattle are free ranging and grass fed. They freely graze upon 120 acres of pasture land. During the winter months, they are given a grass/alfalfa mix of hay which we grown on our farm. Absolutely no antibiotics, animal byproducts, or growth hormones are ever used on our animals. You can rest assured that when purchasing one of our beeves you are consuming an entirely all-natural product.

We also offer free-ranging chickens and turkeys. Due to the seasonally of these birds (quick growth) it is highly recommended that reservations be made during late winter/early spring. The birds are offered on a first come - first served basis otherwise. We also offer fresh farm eggs in season.

Michigan Grass Fed Beef   Green Leaf Farms - Northern Michigan