How To Make Sure Your Beef Is Ethically Sourced

As the realities of factory farming become more well-known, many people are looking for beef and other meat products with more ethical origins. Ethical farming practices ensure the animals live comfortable, healthy lives, and these efforts can result in higher-quality products. Read on to explore ways to find ethically sourced beef.

At the Grocery Store

When you’re at the grocery store, it’s hard to glean much information about the food lining the shelves. Meat products have all sorts of stickers and tags that can make it difficult to find the facts you need. For example, tags that say “free-range” only indicate that the animals have an opportunity to go outside. Instead, you want to look for labels that say “grass-fed”—as factory farms use grain for efficiency—or “Animal Welfare Certified.”

Local Butcher Shops

Lack of access to information is a significant hurdle for many customers, especially since grocery store stickers and labels can be vague. Purchasing from a local butcher allows you to ask them where their cuts of meat come from and what kind of conditions the animals experienced. These conversations are one of the best ways to make sure your beef is ethically sourced, and local butchers can connect you with small, ethical farmers in your area.

Craft Meat Delivery

In the age of digital shopping, you can have healthy and ethically sourced meat delivered straight to your doorstep. In fact, being able to sell meat online has allowed family-owned meat markets to expand and thrive, ensuring that ethically raised and prepared meat can reach a wider number of customers. Opting for delivery can do more than give you higher-quality meat products—you’ll also enjoy a wide range of cuts and options at reasonable prices.

If you want to explore the history of the ingredients you use in your kitchen, consider implementing these methods to learn more about the source of your beef.