The debate rages on about the benefits of both:
* Grass-fed cows have a lighter carbon footprint. They produce meat with a range of higher levels of omega-3 essential fatty acid, which can reduce inflammation, and Conjugated Linoleic Acid, which tests have show to protect against a range of diseases, including diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular disease. Grass-fed beef is firmer and leaner, and some people describe the taste as more earthy. Since it is produced on smaller-scale farms, it tends to be more expensive.
* Many beef eaters prefer grain-fed cattle because of taste and texture. The fat, marbled throughout the meat, melts at low temperatures and adds flavour and makes the meat more juicy. Grain-fed beef is also produced on a much larger scale, so it is cheaper and more widely available. Grain-fed beef has more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids, which can lead to inflammation, and lower amounts of Conjugated Linoleic Acid.
