What we eat, eats matters. Or in other words, the way livestock is fed and raised makes a difference in both the quality and health of the animal product we consume. Zweber Farms is home to 100% grass-fed dairy and beef cows for the health and wellbeing of the animals, their consumers, as well as their soil, pasture and overall environment. This style of farming creates a positive cycle for them, us and the planet.
Health
Foraging on a diverse group of plants supports the cattle’s needs, creating a nurturing environment for them. As stated in an article from National Institute of Health “Nurturing them is nurturing ourselves.”
100% grassfed beef, like from the Zweber Farms cows, has over 2 times more omega-3 than meat from grain fed cattle. (UMN extension)
Grain Fed to cows is similar to fast food to humans. As a staple in the diet it will cause inflammation and disease. The bio-appropriate food source for a body (whether animal or human) provides the most necessary nutrients for bodies to function at its highest capacity and then less time, money and energy is needed for treatment of disease. When our livestock thrive, then we can too. It’s a win – win.
Animal Welfare
“What we do to them, we do to ourselves.”(nih.gov) Livestock raised and kept in their natural environment, the pasture, have dramatically less illness and behavior related issues. Majority of fully grain fed animal products come from Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations where they have little access to what they need. To combat sickness, most grain fed cows have antibiotics mixed into their food. Nature, movement, sun and the right foods for their bodies provide animals with all they need to flourish. It’s our human responsibility to provide this for them.
Soil and Environment
Emily Zweber of Zweber Farms, stated “The biggest reason to go grass fed for both beef and dairy is the health benefits we have seen to our soil and to our animals…Also, the two year drought we experienced [last year], was a testament to the soil quality we have built up in our long term diverse plant pastures.”
Pasture ranging and fully grass fed cattle contribute to ecosystem regeneration both small scale and as a collective.
Consuming 100% grassfed beef from the Zweber Farms is one of the many benefits in buying local. Follow them on Facebook to be alerted for upcoming open houses, check out their store or check out the website to custom order your half or quarter cow today.
My favorite way to cook 100% Grass Fed Stew meat is in the Instapot where it softens so perfectly, especially without much planning ahead. Here is a beef stew recipe for you to try in your pressure cooker! Don’t have one? Crockpot is still a great option when starting in the morning for your evening dinner.
Happy New Year,
Coach Anna
happianna1@gmail.com