1. Veterinary Science and Ag Economics

2.  Each person eats on average 59.7 pounds of beef per year (2010)  Compared to: ◦48.0 pounds of pork ◦Approximately 82 pounds of chicken

3.  The grass-fed cow, which eats from a pasture and is not "finished" on a diet of grains and supplements for rapid weight gain

4.  A grain fed cow/ steer is one that has been raised in pastures, then finished on a grain and forage diet

5.  Said to be:  Better for the planet (less energy goes into growing grass than grain)  Better for the beef eater (less overall fat, and more omega-3s and other "good" fats)  Better for the steer (critics call feedlot practices as inhumane)

6.  A feedlot steer can grow to slaughter weight (1200 lbs) up to a year faster than a cow fed only forage, grass, and hay  The feedlot process also enhances fat marbling, which is one factor that determines a cut of beef's USDA rating ◦the more fat within the red meat, the richer the taste, the higher the grade

7. Grain fed beef Grass fed beef

8. Grass-Fed BeefGrain-Fed Beef  Smaller carcass  Grows slower (up to a year longer)  Less marbling  Increased cost  Higher fat and calorie content  Negative publicity  High concentration of grains in diet

9.  As a cook, you will notice:  Sometimes a lot darker color  Often with less marbling  Yellow colored fat vs. white fat  Taste, usually non-traditional flavor

10.  Omega-6 are saturated fatty acids  Omega-3 are unsaturated fatty acids

11. Grass Fed BeefGrain Fed Beef  Ground beef: $8.49 per pound ◦Last year $4.99 per pound  Boneless Chuck Roast: $7.99  New York Steak: $18.99  Ground beef: $4.49 per pound ◦Last year $2.69 per pound  Boneless Chuck Roast: $5.99  New York Steak: $10.99