Grass-Fed vs. Grain-Fed: Decoding the Meat Label
As Kiwis, we love our land. We also love our meat. Did you know that the type of meat we choose to eat not only impacts the land we love but is impacted by the land? You may have come across the terms 'grass-fed' and 'grain-fed' while shopping for meat, but what do they mean, and why should we care? Let's go on a culinary journey with Online Meats.
Decoding the Labels: Unravelling the Mystery
Understanding the labels "grass-fed" and "grain-fed" is vital to making informed choices when shopping for quality meat. "Grass-fed" doesn't describe an animal that is only grazed on grass; while grass makes up most of the animal's feed, grain may be used to supplement their diet. On the other hand, "grain-fed" implies an animal fed on grains like corn and soy.
These labels influence the taste and quality of our meat, creating a narrative that extends beyond the dinner table.
Taste and Nutritional Insights
The journey from pasture to plate impacts not just the taste but also the nutritional composition of meat. Grass-fed meat boasts a robust and distinct flavour profile, characterised by earthy undertones and a hint of sweetness, attributed to the varied pastoral diet of the animal. Nutrition-wise, it tends to be leaner, with higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. In contrast, grain-fed meat offers a more marbled texture and subtle buttery sweetness.
Eco-Friendly Choices
As Kiwis connected to our land, the environmental impact of our choices matters. Grass-fed meat tends to be the sustainable choice over grain-fed counterparts, requiring less water and creating less greenhouse gas emissions.
Having grass-fed meat on the land can restore soil microbial diversity and help make the land more resilient to flooding and drought. Grasses also help trap atmospheric carbon dioxide. All factors that help nurture Aotearoa's pristine landscapes.
Online Meats' Kiwi Connection
Online Meats' is dedicated to supplying top-tier grass-fed meat with a distinctly Kiwi flavour. We partner with local farmers to give Kiwis ethical and sustainable food choices.
Take our Angus Beef Rump Steak, for example. This slow-growing breed is 100% New Zealand grass-fed for their entire lives. Slow-growing breeds and farming in harmony with nature help us achieve consistent taste, texture and excellent marbling in all our grass-fed Angus Beef.
Choosing Wisely: Kiwi Style
Armed with insights into flavour, nutrition, and environmental impact, you can make meat choices based not just on your taste preference but choices that impact your family's health and the New Zealand environment we hold dear.
Explore Online Meat's range of grass-fed goodness, and let's continue to support local farmers, make mindful choices, and celebrate the unique flavours that make our meat truly Kiwi. Together, let's savour the richness of our land, one delicious bite at a time.
Want to know more about our quality meats or how best to enjoy them? Just ask! Premium fresh meat delivered to your door is just a few clicks away.