Natural Beef: Do You Know What You Are Getting?

Natural beef is becoming more and more available. Since the natural food industry is not regulated like organics, the term is used loosely in labeling and what is required.

Labeling requirements do specify that the label must also state why it is natural.

It started with beef having no hormones or antibiotics.

However, to meet consumers wishes, many producers are aiming to give them what they want.

So...

An increased importance is being placed on

- humane treatment of the animals
- grass fed and vegetable fed (this eliminates BSE exposure from meat byproducts)
- enhanced nutrition for the animal resulting in higher nutrient content
- environmentally friendly methods used in production (no chemical pesticides).

These products do provide a higher quality over conventionally raised animals for these reasons.

In choosing a producer you need to ask certain questions.

1. What is it that makes this natural?
2. What is the animal fed?
3. Are pesticides used on the grazing fields?
4. What is the animal fed in the winter?

Now, ideally the answer to the first question tells you enough to know the animal is pesticide and drug free.

I suggest finding a farmer or supplier with a favorable reputation. One that you trust. It is possible that you could find a certified naturally grown producer.

Even though there is no government regulatory body overseeing production, you can find farmers willing to supply what is wanted by you. Here is a favorable option to conventional beef products.

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