Summary
This study used whole-system data from the North Wyke Farm Platform to evaluate the nutritional value of beef produced from three common temperate pasture systems: permanent pasture, grass and white clover, and monoculture grass ley. Subtle differences in nutrient composition were observed between systems, with grass and white clover showing higher omega-6 PUFA concentrations, but overall nutritional quality was comparable across all three systems. The findings support classifying temperate pasture-based beef as a single commodity in future sustainability assessments, given its consistent nutritional density regardless of specific sward type.
UK applicability
These findings are directly applicable to UK beef production, as the study was conducted in south-west England and examined the three pasture system types most commonly used in temperate regions. The results support UK pastoral beef systems in sustainability assessments by demonstrating consistent nutritional quality across different sward management approaches.
Key measures
Fatty acid profiles (including omega-6 PUFA), mineral content, vitamin E concentration, and nutrient density across beef samples from three pasture system types over three years (2015–2017)
Outcomes reported
The study analysed fatty acids, minerals and vitamin E profiles in beef produced from three common temperate pasture systems (permanent pasture, grass and white clover, and short-term grass ley) over three production cycles. A 100 g serving of temperate pasture-based beef was assessed as a high source of key nutrients.
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