What’s So Good About Grass-Fed Milk?

Do you ever wonder why some people opt to purchase grass-fed milk? Maybe you’ve heard about it from a health-savvy friend or seen it in your grocery store dairy case. Grass-fed milk is becoming a preferred choice for many, and in this article, we’ll explore the reasons why it may be a wise addition to your diet. So, grab a glass of milk (grass-fed, if you have it) and let’s dive in.

Why Is Grass-Fed Milk Better for You?

The answer lies in what the cows eat. Grass-fed cows primarily graze on — you guessed it! — grass. What the cows eat is directly correlated to the nutritional quality of the milk they’re able to produce.

One nutrient of particular benefit is omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are well documented for their numerous health advantages, including their role in reducing the risk of heart disease, improving brain function, and reducing inflammation in the body.

Research has shown that grass-fed milk contains a remarkable 147% more omega-3s per serving than conventional milk. Also, its fatty acid profile differs by its omega-6 ratio: Grass-fed milk contains 52% less omega-6 content than conventional milk, and 36% less omega-6 than organic milk. This is significant because having a higher ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to chronic inflammation, which can contribute to a variety of health issues such as cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and even certain cancers.

In addition, compared to conventional milk, grass-fed milk usually has higher levels of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has been associated with various health benefits, including weight management and reduced risk of heart disease.

Grass-fed milk is richer in other nutrients as well, such as beta-carotene, terpenes, lutein, vitamin A (retinol), vitamin E (tocopherol), and phytol (a derivative of chlorophyll).

Why Does Grass-Fed Milk Last Longer?

One surprising benefit of grass-fed milk is its extended shelf life.

Grass-fed milk often undergoes a process known as ultra-high temperature (UHT) pasteurization. During this process, the milk is heated to a higher temperature than traditional pasteurization. This not only kills harmful bacteria but also extends the milk’s shelf life by several weeks or even months, provided the container remains unopened.

Why Does Grass-Fed Milk Taste Different?

Research shows that being able to taste a difference may depend on your palate. While some people are capable of noticing more flavor and creaminess in the taste of grass-fed milk, most can only identify visual differences, such as color and texture.

One of the factors influencing the taste of milk is the processing. Grass-fed dairy products are often produced with a focus on minimal processing, which helps to preserve more of the natural flavors.

Additionally, the diet of grass-fed cows varies as the seasons change. This seasonal variability can lead to subtle flavor differences in the milk as well, adding to the uniqueness of taste.

To Sum It Up

The goodness of grass-fed milk lies in its nutritional value, the long shelf life in the fridge, and its rich, creamy taste. It’s an easy swap that adds a little extra nutrition to your daily routine, making it a choice that’s both delicious and beneficial to your health. So why not give it a try on your next grocery shopping trip and experience the difference firsthand? 

 

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking

• Benbrook CM, Davis DR, Heins BJ, et al. Enhancing the Fatty Acid Profile of Milk Through Forage-Based Rations, With Nutrition Modeling of Diet Outcomes. Food Science & Nutrition. February 28, 2018.
• Alothman M, Hogan SA, Hennessy D, et al. The “Grass-Fed” Milk Story: Understanding the Impact of Pasture Feeding on the Composition and Quality of Bovine Milk. Foods. August 17, 2019.
• Organic Valley. What’s the Difference Between Pasteurized and Ultra-Pasteurized Milk? May 10, 2022
• Organic Valley. 8 Things You Should Know About Grass-Fed Dairy. February 14, 2019.
• Kilcawley KN, Faulkner H, Clarke HJ, et al. Factors Influencing the Flavour of Bovine Milk and Cheese From Grass-Based Versus Non-Grass-Based Milk Production Systems. Foods. March 13, 2018.
• Faccia M. The Flavor of Dairy Products from Grass-Fed Cows. Foods. August 27, 2020.
• Progressive Dairy. Making Milk Taste Good: Analyzing the Factors That Impact Milk Quality and Taste. September 30, 2016.