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We recently submitted samples of our beef for nutrition testing by the esteemed Susan Duckett, Meat Scientist at Clemson University. We've gotten back our results and we truly couldn't be happier.
Let's get into saturated fat and just what that means.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in understanding the differences between conventionally raised grocery store beef and premium quality grass-fed beef (like ours at Hi Bräu). Saturated fat has long been associated with health concerns, making it a huge part of how the choices we make regarding our beef impact our diet and overall well-being.
The Basics of Saturated Fat
Saturated fat is a type of dietary fat that is known for its potential to raise LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels, commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol. High LDL levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.
That being said, the lower the levels of saturated fat are in meat, the better. Now, time for the comparison.
Grocery Store Beef: Saturated Fat Content
Conventionally raised beef, typically found in most grocery stores, is often criticized for its higher saturated fat content. This is mostly due to the cattle's diet and living conditions. Factory-farmed cattle are typically fed grain-based diets, which are intended to fatten them quickly, resulting in a higher fat content, particularly saturated fat, in their meat. Not only that, but these cattle often lead a sedentary lifestyle within their small pens, further contributing to high fat content.
The exact saturated fat content in grocery store beef can vary, but it tends to be higher compared to grass-fed alternatives. The average saturated fat content in this beef can range from 5-8 grams per 100 grams of meat, depending on the cut and specific farming practices. The USDA classifies meat with 4.5 grams of saturated fat per 100 grams as "lean," which you may be hard pressed to find in a grocery store steak.
Hi Bräu's Grass-Fed Beef: A Healthier Alternative
On the other hand, grass-fed beef, like ours, is finally receiving recognition for it's lower saturated fat levels and numerous benefits. Our cattle are raised on pastures and consume a diet primarily consisting of grass and forage. This natural diet and active lifestyle from roaming open pastures result in a leaner meat with lower saturated fat levels.
We're super excited that, upon testing, our meat contained lower saturated fat content than nearly any grocery store beef, even that of some of our competitors. Our steaks contain between 1.3-2.5 g saturated fat per 100 grams of meat and our ground beef, which is know for its high fat content in grocery store varieties, contains 3.9 g saturated fat per 100 grams.
In the saturated fat showdown between grocery store beef and Hi Brau's grass-fed beef, the latter emerges victorious Every. Single. Time. If you want beef that's both better for your health and the environment than it's counterparts, shop with us. Feel free to reach out to us with questions - transparency is at the heart of what we do, along with plain ole' good beef.