Grass-fed and what it means for your health

"Grass-fed" means cattle (or dairy cows) ate grass and forage rather than being switched to a grain-based diet. That difference shows up in the meat. Research suggests grass-fed beef tends to have more omega-3 fats, more CLA (conjugated linoleic acid, a fat being studied for its health effects) and more antioxidants like vitamin E than grain-fed beef. The differences are modest, and many people also find the flavor richer.

Labels can be confusing, since "grass-fed" alone may still allow grain at the end. Look for "100% grass-fed" or "grass-finished," or ask a rancher at the farmers market how their animals are raised.

Try this: swap grass-fed beef into one meal this week, like burgers or chili.