Grass-Fed Protein vs Regular Protein | Is There a Difference?

What “Grass-Fed” Means

You may have encountered packaging that features a distinctive certified label indicating that the product is “grass-fed.” This label is commonly found on animal products like meats and eggs, as well as in supplements such as protein powders.

Now, you might wonder, what exactly does this “grass-fed” label signify? At first glance, it sounds like a positive attribute, but let’s delve deeper to understand its implications.

According to the Department of Agriculture, the term “grass-fed” pertains to a rigorous dietary requirement for animals, wherein they primarily consume grass and forage. For a product to be labeled as “grass-fed,” animals must not be fed grain or grain byproducts and must have continuous access to pasture.

Are There Benefits in “Grass-Fed” Sources?

There are several reasons why the label “grass-fed” may be an important attribute to consider. 

To begin with, it’s important to recognize that the nutrition and diet of the animals whose products we consume can significantly influence the quality and nutritional value that we derive from them.

A study on grass-fed meats demonstrated lower levels of fat found in beef. More specifically it was found that U.S Cattle who are grass-fed produce meats that contain up to 30-70% less monounsaturated fatty acids. The lower content of fats make this a great preference for those looking into maintaining heart health. In fact up to 6 times more omega-3 fatty acids can be found in grass fed sources. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids has plenty of benefits. For one, they play a critical role in cellular function. By providing structure and support between cells throughout the body. 

Verdict

It is important to highlight that, despite the existence of these studies, the observed differences between grain-fed and grass-fed products were generally minor. This suggests that the essential nutritional composition derived from these products does not undergo drastic changes depending on whether the animals were fed grain or grass. 

Investing a bit more in grass-fed options can be worthwhile, especially if you prefer leaner meats with lower fat content. From an ethical perspective, opting for grass-fed meats often signifies the distinction between animals freely roaming on farm grounds and those confined to crowded feeding-lots.

Grass-Fed Protein Powders

The term “grass-fed” extends beyond just meats; it also applies to various protein powders. These “grass-fed” protein powders are known for having lower levels of fat and a leaner formula compared to many generic commercial powders. Here are a few highly recommended choices: