What is the difference between Fed and Non-fed cattle?

Answer 1

Do you mean grass fed vs. corn fed? Grass fed cattle are grown on pasture and not put on to a feedlot. They tend to be leaner, but take longer to feed out and are lower in quality grade. Most steers(castrated males) and heifers (females that do not become breeding cows) are fed a mainly corn diet in feedlots. This means the cattle are more feed efficient (cost less) and usually are higher in quality (such as Prime or Choice).

Answer 2

Grain fed cattle are just that - in the feedlot before slaughter they are fed grain to fatten them up - grain fed cattle have more marbling (fat) through the meat which gives it the taste and tenderness more people are accustomed to. However because of the environment of the feedlot, and the economical need to have these cattle gain weight faster they are also given antibiotics and steroids which can leave traces in the meat.

Cattle that aren't finished in a feedlot - usually called free range or grass fed, aren't given these, have grown from just grass and hay, and then sent directly to slaughter with little or no time in the feedlot. Their meat isn't as marbled and while really it is just as good and a lot healthier - less fat and no chemical residues - it isn't as popular. Sometimes you will see it marketed as organic beef.

Answer 3

fed ones live the non fed ones die

Answer 4

i agree