Answers to 10 Most-Asked Questions About Beef

You might be offended by this article.

There, we said it.

Exploring topics like animal cruelty and vaccines is sure to ruffle feathers, stir the pot... insert cute idiom here. Simply put, you might disagree with us, and that’s okay. The purpose of this article is to explore the 10 most-asked questions about beef. We hope to give well-rounded answers to help you better understand the beef industry and make informed buying decisions. However, before we dive in, we must acknowledge our unavoidable bias.

We are ranchers who raise grass-fed cattle. That influences our opinions, yes, but it also makes us industry professionals. We know cattle; we know beef. As we examine the following questions, we will do our best to present credible information with resources so you can do your own research.

Alright, let’s jump in.

Does beef damage the environment?

If you Google this question, you’ll notice the first page of results contains only articles from environmental groups. They focus on greenhouse gas emissions and how the beef industry contributes to deforestation, water pollution, and so on. What they don’t share are: how ruminant animals have played an age-old role in the biogenic carbon cycle and ensure range health, and how Agriculture as an entire industry yields less than 5% of direct emissions.

Cattle are said to contribute to climate change because they belch methane. You read that correctly. Environmental groups argue that cow burps (and flatulence) destroy our environment. Although methane is a greenhouse gas, the conversation surrounding cattle and global warming is broader than what certain media conveys.

Ruminant animals like cattle and sheep convert the carbon found in soil into methane. The methane is then converted into carbon dioxide (through hydroxyl oxidation) and captured by plants during photosynthesis and stored as carbohydrates. Humans cannot convert the energy stored in grass, so we rely on ruminant animals to "upcycle" it into a high-quality protein source. Also, when cattle graze, they stimulate healthy plant growth. (More on that here.) Their excrement fertilizes the soil, and their hooves aerate and incorporate layers of soil, benefiting root systems and overall range health.

How does beef cause deforestation?

Along with greenhouse gas, another popular argument used against the beef industry claims that cattle cause deforestation and take up too much land. (Here is a fantastic article about this topic.) The claim simply isn’t true. In the United States, nearly two-thirds of all agricultural lands are considered marginal lands, which means the land is unsuitable for growing crops or other uses but can be foraged by ruminants. Cattle utilize the meager resources of these otherwise “unusable” lands.

The United States has not deforested much land for cattle. Before the 1900s, it is estimated that 30-60 million bison and 35 million pronghorns roamed North America, easily rivaling today’s cattle herd size. They ensured the range’s health by grazing, fertilizing, and disturbing the soil with their hooves. Over the last hundred years, their population has dropped to 31,000 bison and under a million pronghorns.

Cattle play a vital role in the ecosystem, compensating for the lack of other ruminant species.

The argument involving deforestation also claims the U.S. beef industry causes the deforestation of rainforests. (You can read more about this here.) In short, when looking at the beef industry’s environmental impact, U.S. beef is a solution, not a problem.

Understanding cattle’s role in the ecosystem and biogenic carbon cycle helps to paint a bigger picture of the beef industry’s relationship with the environment. Agriculture is not the villain, even though environmental groups and political agendas would have you believe otherwise. According to reports from the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the leading sources of greenhouse gas emissions are “transportation, residential and commercial, and industry.”

If agriculture isn’t to blame for global warming, why all the fake news?

Over 80% of Americans live in urban environments. That means 80% of Americans likely do not have regular interactions with Agriculture. The disconnect between society and Agriculture endangers our national food system because:

If people do not understand how their food is produced, they won’t know the many ways producers care for the environment, i.e., their sustainable practices, emphasis on conservation, and humane animal treatment.
The lack of education makes people more susceptible to false claims. A single Facebook post has the potential to turn someone against Agriculture.
If people don’t care about food production, they won’t advocate for local producers. Instead, they’ll support imported food, which isn’t as fresh and nutritious, and due to the extensive transportation, yields significantly more greenhouse gas emissions.

We aren’t wagging our fingers at the public. They aren’t to blame for the disconnect and lack of education. In fact, people are more curious about food production now than they have been in recent years. We highlight all this to show . . .

There’s more to the story.

Producers (ranchers and farmers) care about the environment. They view themselves as stewards of the land’s resources. If the soil is overworked, crops won’t thrive. If pastures are overgrazed, grass won’t grow. If water isn’t responsibly managed, operations crumble. If animals aren’t treated well, meat quality suffers. Everything is connected. Producers cannot hurt the ecosystem without also hurting themselves. Of course, not every producer manages their operation correctly, but there’s a blatant difference in quality and overall success between producers who care about the environment and those who don’t. And the reality is that most producers do care!

As cattle ranchers, we go to great lengths to protect our land’s health and positively contribute to the natural order.

How to support Agriculture while also being environmentally conscious:

Purchase from ranchers and farmers who prioritize sustainable practices.
Buy local food! You’ll reduce emissions from transportation.
Research.

Statistically, the average American is three generations removed from the farm. Perhaps education can bring us back together or at least unite us with a common goal. We need a healthy earth and healthy food; we need Agriculture, the backbone of every civilization since the dawn of time.

But don’t take our word for it. Research for yourself.

Is beef considered animal cruelty?

Like with all meat, eating beef is personal. How someone views animals, nutrition, and the circle of life will determine their feelings toward eating beef. And rightfully so!

Here at Lazy T Ranch, we raise cattle for beef, so we can’t speak to differing convictions. But we can share our thoughts on ranching, eating beef, and humane animal husbandry.

Our philosophy is rooted in stewardship. We believe we play a necessary role in the food chain and feel a sobering responsibility to give our animals healthy, content, and purposeful lives.

As stated earlier, cattle help the environment, but without the demand for beef, most cattle would not exist, thus hurting the environment. And in a scenario where cattle roamed wild and uncared for, they would face sickness and death without contributing to our food system.

Beef is a high-quality protein source. On average, a steer produces 440 lbs. of beef, which can feed (roughly) 2,300 people. Raising cattle is an efficient way to provide nutritious protein.

But is ranching humane?

The word humane is defined as “having or showing compassion or benevolence.” Like most ranchers, we treat our animals with respect and care. We give them low-stress lives that align with their natural design, a grass diet, medical attention, and when the time comes for processing, we employ methods that prioritize dignity and peace. Keeping stress off cattle protects beef quality and prevents cruelty.

If cattle must die for beef, how is ranching not animal cruelty?

Ranching pivots on an axle of conservation. To grasp its breadth, one must first understand the natural order. Looking at the environment, there is a constant exchange of resources. (We give an example in the section above.) Ranchers view themselves as participants in said order.

We won’t further dissect the mentality surrounding livestock because your opinion of it is dictated by how you view life and death. We intimately experience the life cycle. We help bring calves into the world. We spend days and nights trying to keep sick animals alive. We celebrate when we succeed and feel the loss when we don’t. Our perspective of the life cycle differs from that of someone who doesn’t engage with it.

But to answer the question, we must first define animal cruelty, a term used to describe neglect and intentional cruelty. (Here is a legal overview of animal cruelty.)

Ranchers value life and do everything possible to prevent suffering. A good rancher does not neglect livestock. Period. So, cattle ranching isn’t considered animal cruelty.

We understand this article won’t change differing opinions. Still, the conversation surrounding cattle ranching boils down to the food chain, the circle of life, and how everything in nature contributes to the survival of another. Ranchers do all they can to be good stewards of the land and animals.

What’s the deal with vaccines?

Vaccines have always been a topic of debate, particularly their effects on people’s health. The beef industry faces similar discourse regarding the relationship between vaccines, meat quality, animal health, and public well-being.

So, are there vaccines in your beef? And should you be worried?

Before we explore the reality of cattle vaccines, we must first share the types of vaccines approved for use on cattle:

Viral Vaccines
Bacterial Vaccines
Combination Vaccines
Autogenous Vaccines
Modified-Live Vaccines
Killed or Inactive Vaccines

(Click here for a complete overview of vaccine types and uses.)

Cattle vaccines contain weakened or inactivated forms of pathogens, like viruses and bacteria. When given to cattle, the vaccines stimulate the animal’s immune system to produce antibodies, allowing the animal to fight off disease. By creating immunity, cattle vaccines prevent the outbreak and spread of infectious diseases and thus protect the health of the entire herd.

Are mRNA vaccines used on cattle?

Since the pandemic, people worry about eating meat from animals treated with mRNA vaccines, which contain genetic material often linked to the coronavirus. The mRNA vaccine is not approved for use on cattle, so beef does not contain mRNA.

The public’s main fear seems to be that vaccines (1) alter beef’s genetics and thus affect a person’s DNA and (2) remain in the beef and are ingestible. Both are virtually impossible. Vaccine withdrawal times are federally mandated, so there isn’t a chance for residual vaccines in beef. And if by some chance a person consumed residual vaccine, their GI tract would rapidly degrade it without affecting their health.

Cattle vaccines build immunity, not alter genetics. Now it’s important to note that, although the United States has strict rules regarding vaccine use, not all countries follow the same protocols. And the United States’ meat labeling laws are unclear. Many products labeled “Product of the USA” were not raised in the US but were butchered in the US or turned into value-added products like sausage.

To ensure your beef meets US vaccine standards, purchase beef raised and processed in the United States. You can buy from certified all-natural beef programs and producers with transparent vaccine protocols for added peace of mind. Sourcing is nearly always the answer to quality beef!

Do cattle need vaccines to survive?

Certain vaccines (like 7-way) help cattle reach adulthood. Overall, the use of vaccines in cattle production is left up to the discretion of individual livestock producers, aligning with federal regulations. Herds may need different vaccines depending on their environment, disease exposure, etc.

At Lazy T Ranch, we use vaccines that meet all-natural standards to ensure our cattle’s well-being. We never administer unnecessary vaccines. Our goal is to raise our animals naturally and healthily.

If cattle vaccines aren’t “bad” for humans, why all the concern?

People often confuse vaccines with antibiotics. They are not the same. Antibiotics treat bacterial infections; vaccines build antibodies to prevent infections. Overuse of antibiotics in cattle can lead to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which can sicken people. However, like vaccines, the use of antibiotics isn’t black-and-white. (Read more here.) It all boils down to responsible beef production. If cattle are raised in a natural environment and given quality care, they do not require a lot—if any—antibiotics.

We sell premium beef that is not subjected to antibiotics or added hormones. (Learn more about growth hormones here.) We keep our program simple, focusing on our cattle’s natural design and health, and ensuring our customers receive nutritious, quality beef they can trust.

What are the concerns with purchasing beef from a grocery store?

Origin. When you purchase beef from a grocery store, you don’t always know where it came from or how it was raised, and production claims aren’t trustworthy.
Additives. Grocery store beef is often treated with chemicals and dyes to maintain the appearance of freshness.
Quality. Although we support beef and want to uplift the industry, we can’t deny that some beef is objectively better than others. Compared to ranch-raised beef, grocery store beef doesn’t offer the same level of quality in terms of taste, tenderness, and health benefits.

We’ll say it again. Sourcing is nearly always the answer to quality beef. If you have access to local beef, please support your local producers. You’ll find the beef is ten times better than your Walmart steaks. If you don’t have access to local beef, explore your online options. More information here.

Why is buying local beef so-called better?

Fresher, tastier beef.

Unlike mass-produced beef that often travels hundreds or even thousands of miles to reach supermarket shelves, locally-raised beef typically undergoes shorter transportation times, ensuring it arrives at your plate at the peak of freshness.

Supports local ranchers and communities.

Buying locally-raised beef keeps small-scale farmers and ranchers in operation. These producers are often deeply ingrained in their communities, contributing to the vibrancy and resilience of rural areas. Investing in their products sustains livelihoods, preserves agricultural heritage, and fosters a stronger sense of community. Also, the direct relationship between consumers and local agriculture promotes transparency and accountability, allowing for greater traceability and assurance of ethical and sustainable practices.

Environmental stewardship.

Opting for locally-raised beef can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with food production and distribution. By shortening the supply chain and minimizing transportation distances, locally-raised beef helps mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Additionally, many local producers prioritize sustainable farming practices such as rotational grazing, regenerative agriculture, and water conservation, further minimizing their environmental impact and promoting ecosystem health.

Animal welfare and quality assurance.

Many local producers prioritize humane treatment and ensure their animals are raised in low-stress environments with access to pasture, natural feed, and clean water. The commitment to animal welfare aligns with ethical considerations and contributes to the superior quality and flavor of the meat.

Is beef healthy?

Yes, beef is healthy! It is so nutrient-dense, it’s basically a superfood. It provides iron, zinc, B12, B6, niacin, and protein. It combats aging; it’s like the food version of retinol. The benefits of eating beef are incredible, confirmed by countless recent studies.

Is grass-fed beef better than grain-fed beef?

Grass-fed beef contains a richer nutrient profile than grain-fed beef. It typically contains high levels of healthy fats like Omega-3 and Conjugated Linoleic Acid, which improve immunity and reduce the risk of certain diseases. Grass-fed beef also provides beta-carotene, antioxidants, and vitamins like Vitamin E.

It’s important to note that the term “Grass-Fed Beef” isn’t fully regulated. If cattle eat grass at some point, they can be labeled as grass-fed beef. This means a steer could spend its life in a feedlot eating grass hay and be considered grass-fed.

We wrote an entire article on this topic. Check it out here.

Are feedlots bad?

Nobody likes seeing pictures and videos of sickly feedlot cattle in cramped, muddy pens. They especially don’t like hearing that some cattle are fed French fries and candy and pumped with antibiotics. Feedlot operations that employ these methods to fatten cattle give feedlots a negative reputation. Yes, they exist, but they don’t represent all feedlots.

Some feedlot operations focus on fattening cattle as cheaply as possible on a mass commercial scale. Others feed cattle during the winter or “finish” them before processing. So, no, feedlots are not “bad” when managed well. Plenty of feedlot operations prioritize animal welfare. Again, sourcing is key!

Here are some articles that further explore this topic:

How much should I pay for beef?

Beef prices are at an all-time high thanks to inflation, supply and demand, and production costs. Here are some resources with price breakdowns:

We raise premium beef and do our best to keep our prices competitive.

Check out our store.

People have lots of opinions. Who is right?

Cattle ranching isn’t black-and-white, good versus evil. It is a complex, nuanced, valuable industry. And there’s always more to the story!

By answering the 10 most-asked questions about beef, we hope we’ve shown you the importance of education. There isn’t necessarily a “right” way to raise and eat beef. But when you know what’s important to you and the resources available, you can make the best decisions for your plate.