18 Nov Wed 2009
Breeds for Grass-Fed Beef
What breed is best for finishing on grass? Well, there is tons of debate, and no "right" answer.
We raise Maine-Anjou and (Black) Angus cattle. First a little about our Maine cows. They are a dual purpose breed of cattle that was imported from France. The Maine-Anjou breed was developed in the Maine and Anjou counties of France. Most cattlemen in France do not feed grains to their animals, thus the Maine-Anjou cow is perfect for grass development. These cows were originally Red and White. Maine -Anjou cows have a great disposition and are perfect for a small family farm. The cows have a good amount of milk, and are very good mothers. Another benefit to finishing Maine-Anjou calves is that they are quick growers. A typical Maine will finish in 12-16 months in a grain-fed operation. We harvest our grass-fed Maine calves at about 14-19 months. This is a great benefits to both the animals and our bottom line. When you harvest an animal younger you will have meat that is much more tender and flavorful!
Angus cattle or "Black Angus" cattle have been the best marketed cattle in the united states. They have tons of consumer recognition and can be good cows. Angus do have more marbling traits. Meaning that you should get more internal fat in a steak which will provide additional flavor. We have selected our Angus cows for maternal ability and carcass traits.
We have crossed our foundation Maine-Anjou Cows with Registered Angus cows. This cross has tons of benefits. With a cross of two purebred animals you will get the best of both worlds with milk, muscle and flavor. I hesitate to use the word "hybrid" but with crossbreeding you will get NATURAL Hybrid vigor without any chemicals, antibiotics or hormones.
I hope I haven't bored you with a discussion of our beef genetics. I just thought you might like to know a little more about our cows and why our beef is EXTREMELY tender and flavorful!!
We do have a quarter of 100% grass-fed beef available. And we have more 100% ground beef bundles available. Check out our store.
Have a great day!!
Shanen -Momma to the Mama Cows at the Ebersole Cattle Co