Based on scientific comparisons focusing on nutritional content, grass-fed lamb exhibits specific differences that may be considered beneficial when compared to grain-fed lamb.
Nutritional Comparison: Grass-Fed vs. Grain-Fed Lamb
Scientists who compared grass-fed lamb meat from lambs grazing in pasture with grain-fed lamb meat from lambs in a feedlot found notable nutritional differences.
Specifically, the study indicated:
- Lambs grazing in pasture (grass-fed) had 14% less fat compared to grain-fed lamb.
- Grass-fed lamb contained approximately 8% more protein compared to grain-fed lamb.
Beyond macro-nutrient differences, grass-fed lamb is also recognized for its rich profile of essential vitamins and minerals:
- It is highlighted as an excellent source of:
- Vitamin B-12
- Niacin
- Zinc
- It is noted as a good source of:
- Iron
These findings suggest that from a nutritional standpoint, grass-fed lamb provides a leaner protein source with a favorable fat profile and contributes significantly to the intake of several key micronutrients.
