Summary
This narrative review by van Vliet and colleagues synthesises evidence on how feeding system — pasture versus grain — affects the nutritional composition of beef and dairy products, with particular attention to lipid profiles, micronutrients, and bioactive phytonutrients derived from diverse grassland diets. The authors suggest that grass-fed products tend to contain more favourable omega-3 fatty acid profiles and higher concentrations of certain fat-soluble vitamins and antioxidants, though the magnitude of differences varies considerably across studies and production contexts. The review also situates these nutritional findings within broader planetary health considerations, noting the potential co-benefits of well-managed pasture systems for biodiversity and carbon sequestration, whilst acknowledging trade-offs in greenhouse gas emissions.
UK applicability
The findings are broadly applicable to the UK, where pasture-based beef and dairy production is widespread and aligns with existing agri-environment policy frameworks; UK consumers and policymakers may find the nutritional and sustainability distinctions relevant to procurement standards, dietary guidelines, and post-Brexit agricultural support schemes.
Key measures
Omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratios; conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) content; fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, K2); carotenoid and polyphenol concentrations; greenhouse gas emissions and land-use metrics
Outcomes reported
The paper examines differences in fatty acid profiles, micronutrient content, and phytonutrient composition between grass-fed and grain-fed ruminant products, and considers associated implications for human health and environmental sustainability.
Topic tags
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