18 Family Farms in Ottawa that provide Grass Fed Beef

On small family farms, the cows graze out in the pasture in the summer and eat dried grass, hay in the winter. The farms in Ottawa region raise the cows naturally, in the traditional way, not using hormones, antibiotics or grain supplements.

Bellow you will find a list of farms  located in Ottawa region that provide grass fed beef and organic beef.

Farm vs. Store

In regular stores most of the beef is grain-finished, coming from cattle raised on feedlots. The animals are raised with grass and forages, but they are given a grain diet 3-4 months before they go to the market. This energy-rich diet consists mainly in corn or barley and makes the animals grow faster, adds more tenderness and fat to the meat. It takes 6 to 12 months longer for grass fed cattle to reach the market weight compared to those finished on grains. Let’s keep in mind that the cows have not evolved to eat grain and this leads to digestive problems and weakened immune system. Also, the beef found in stores is more likely to have added hormones and antibiotics, as they are allowed in Canada for beef cows.

Why is grass fed beef better for you?

The animals need grass, lots of space, fresh air and sunshine. On the feedlots they are kept in an overcrowded, indoor space.

Studies show that the grass fed beef has a higher nutritional value than the grain-finished beef. The grass fed beef has more omega 3, more zinc, iron, vitamin B12, more antioxidants (like vitamin E).

Sources: aitc-canada.ca ; canadabeef.ca ; theglobeandmail.com; whygrassfed.ca.