Grass-fed dairy is more nutritious and delicious than conventional dairy, according to a recent study in the Journal of Dairy Science. Milk from grass-fed cows was found to be rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, as well as having a fuller, creamier texture and sweeter taste. It’s also more sustainable and humane as grass-fed cows are raised in a natural environment, supporting biodiversity and healthy soil and ecosystems. Although more expensive than conventional dairy, grass-fed products promote better health and a better planet. Speciality food stores, farmers markets, and online retailers are where you can find grass-fed dairy products.
New Study Finds Grass-fed Dairy is More Nutritious and Delicious
A recent study published by the Journal of Dairy Science found that grass-fed dairy is not only more nutritious, but more delicious than conventional dairy products. The study, which analyzed milk from cows on different diets, found that milk from grass-fed cows had higher levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and healthy fats, as well as a richer, creamier texture and sweeter flavor.
The Benefits of Grass-fed Dairy
When cows are allowed to graze on fresh grass and other plants, rather than being confined to feedlots and fed a diet of corn and soybeans, their milk is significantly richer in nutrients. According to the study, grass-fed milk contains more calcium, magnesium, and potassium, as well as higher levels of vitamin A, vitamin E, and antioxidants. Grass-fed milk also has a higher concentration of Omega-3 and conjugated linoleic acids (CLA), healthy fats that have been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and promoting weight loss.
Grass-fed milk and dairy products also taste better than conventionally-produced products. The study found that grass-fed milk had a creamier texture and sweeter, richer flavor than conventional milk, which is often described as thin or watery. Grass-fed cheese, butter, and yogurt are also more flavorful and delicious than conventional products.
Why Choose Grass-fed Dairy?
In addition to being more nutritious and flavorful, choosing grass-fed dairy products also supports a more sustainable and humane system of agriculture. Grass-fed cows are raised in a more natural environment, where they can graze and move about freely, rather than being confined to feedlots. Grass-fed farming also promotes biodiversity and supports healthy soil and ecosystems.
FAQs
Q: Is grass-fed dairy more expensive than conventional dairy?
A: Yes, grass-fed dairy products are often more expensive than conventional products. This is due in part to the higher cost of producing grass-fed milk and dairy products, as well as the smaller-scale production methods used by many grass-fed farmers. However, many people believe that the benefits to their health and the environment are worth the added cost.
Q: Where can I find grass-fed dairy products?
A: Grass-fed dairy products can be found at many specialty food stores, farmers markets, and online retailers. Look for products that are labeled “grass-fed” or “pasture-raised,” and be sure to check the ingredients list to ensure that the product is made from 100% grass-fed milk.
Q: Is grass-fed dairy suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
A: Grass-fed dairy products still contain lactose, so they may not be suitable for people with lactose intolerance. However, some people with lactose intolerance find that they can tolerate grass-fed dairy products better than conventional products. If you have lactose intolerance, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider before trying grass-fed dairy products.
Q: Are grass-fed dairy products better for the environment?
A: Grass-fed farming is generally considered to be more sustainable and better for the environment than conventional farming methods. Grass-fed cows require less fossil fuel inputs, produce less greenhouse gas emissions, and promote biodiversity and healthy soil ecosystems. Choosing grass-fed dairy products can help support more sustainable agriculture practices.
In conclusion, the new study finding that grass-fed dairy is more nutritious and delicious than its conventional counterparts is a great reason to switch to grass-fed products. It’s more expensive, but people should consider the benefits not only to their health but the planet as well. While there are many grass-fed farms out there, be careful in choosing your products and make sure it is labeled “grass-fed”.
