Organic Grass Fed Beef (Benefits + Buying Guide)

Organic, grass-fed, grass-finished, pasture-raised, the labels can be dizzying and confusing. Labels and certifications are a form of marketing so in an effort to be a savvy consumer, we need to know what these labels mean. 

In today’s post, I’m honing in on organic, grass-fed beef, because there are so many benefits when you can identify truly clean, nutritionally-dense beef. Plus, it’s one of my favorite foods and I eat it on a daily basis!

*Affiliate Disclosure: I do have affiliate links in this blog post. If you purchase something from my link, I will receive a small commission from the sale.  This comes at no cost to you, but is paid by the company.  I do not take becoming an affiliate with any company lightly.  If I am, it’s because I believe in the company and their product. 

What Is Organic Grass Fed Beef?

Organic grass-fed beef is meat from cattle that graze on open pastures with a diet consisting primarily of grass, hay, or other organic feed and haven’t been given antibiotics, hormones, or synthetic chemicals.

Does Organic Beef Mean Grass Fed?

No, just because meat is labeled organic does not mean the cattle were grass-fed. A grass-fed diet is grass and forage instead of grains. An organic certification indicates that the cattle were never given antibiotics or synthetic hormones and were given organic feed which could be grass and forage but it could also be organic grains which many times are given to cattle to fatten them up before processing.

What Is The Difference Between Grass Fed And Organic Beef?

Grass-Fed 

The grass-fed standard signifies a more natural diet. This means that cattle graze primarily on grass and forage but those pastures may not be chemical-free. Antibiotics and hormones may also be given to the cattle.

Organic

The organic standard signifies clean, chemical-free cattle. This means that cattle are not given antibiotics or synthetic hormones, and they feed on organic grass, forage, but also organic grains or grain-finished.

Organic Grass-Fed 

This is the gold standard. The cattle are not only pasture-raised meaning they feed on organic grass and forage, but the cattle are not treated with antibiotics or synthetic hormones.

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Is Organic Grass Fed Beef Good For You

Omega-3 fatty acids 

Grass-fed beef has up to 5x more omega-3s than grain-fed beef.

Higher in CLA (conjugated linoleic acid) 

A healthy fat that is linked to improved metabolism, cardiovascular health, and reduced inflammation.

Antioxidant-rich

Higher levels of vitamins A and E, plus glutathione and other antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress.

Leaner protein 

Typically lower in total fat and calories per serving than grain-fed beef.

No antibiotics or synthetic hormones 

Reduces risk of antibiotic resistance and unnecessary hormone exposure.

No chemical pesticides 

Grass and forage is organically grown.

Easier to digest

Some people find grass-fed beef easier to digest, especially those sensitive to grain-fed meat.

Where To Buy Organic Grass Fed Beef

Primal Pastures, Plainview Beef, Grass Roots Farmers Co-op and U.S. Wellness Meats are not certified organic, however, they maintain standards that surpass organic standards.

Another great option is to find a local farmer and buy a ¼ or ½ cow yearly.  We’ve done this as well and love always having meat in our freezer.  It’s also a huge savings as you pay the same price for a steak as you would ground beef because you pay per pound.  It’s half the cost you would pay in stores. Check your local natural Facebook groups, local Co-ops or ask farmers if they know of anyone who does this in your area.

• Primal Pastures– This is next level meat, they offer chicken, pork, beef and fish.  I love getting chicken from them because it’s free of soy, corn and even their feed they give the chickens is made from olive oil, not a seed oil.  This is impossible to find!  I’ve asked and researched around.  Primal Pastures is truly doing it right- no corners are being cut.  
• Plainview Beef– Use code: GURLGONEGREEN for $50 off any order of $350 or more. I discovered Plainview this spring and have been so impressed with their process and how they are doing things differently.  They really are taking grass-fed meat and being able to put it on a large scale while still being regenerative.  They do beef only and it tastes amazing!  The flavor is unlike anything I’ve had.  You won’t be disappointed!
• U.S. Wellness Meats– I haven’t ordered from them in a while, but they do offer so many meat options and it’s all a cut above what you would find in the grocery store. 
• Grass Roots Farmers Co-op Use code: SUZI for 15% off. I order off and on from Grass Roots because they have some amazing sales and they’re a little more budget friendly than some of the above options.  I typically will buy chicken from them.  I like that you can scan the QR code and know what farm you are getting your meat from.
• Eel River Organic Beef at Whole Foods– This is a great option if you have a Whole Foods around you.  They are organic and grass-fed and finished beef. 
• Organic Rancher at Whole Foods– Another great organic, grass-fed option at Whole Foods.  
• Thrive Market– If you are a Thrive Member you can get some great grass-fed beef online.

Where to you buy your organic grass fed beef? If I missed your favorite, share below!

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