Organic Beef Vs. Traditional Beef

Organic and non-organic cattle look the same.

Organic food is food that has been grown or raised naturally and not exposed to chemicals such as pesticides. The trend toward eating more organic food continues to grow.

Feed

The Minnesota Institute for Sustainable Agriculture claims the United States Food and Drug Administration allows non-organic beef cattle to be fed slaughter by-products such as pork and horse proteins as well as poultry,

Drugs

Organic cattle may not be given hormones or antibiotics.

Pasture

Organic cattle often pasture more than non-organic cattle.

Although not necessarily required, organic cattle often spend more time in pastures than their traditional counterparts.

Healthy Choice?

According to a Dow Jones Newswires 2006 report published on the Cattle Network website, organic beef has not been proven safer for consumption than non-organic.

Expense

The restrictions and documentation requirements for those who raise organic beef make it more expensive than traditional beef.

References

• Cattle Network: Organic Beef Sales Still Small But Growing Fast
• Cooperative Extension System: What are the Differences Between Organic and Non-Organic Beef Production?
• University of Illinois: Natural vs. Traditional Beef Production