What’s the Difference Between Pasture-Raised and Grass-Fed Beef?

Let’s talk beef.

If you’ve been around here a while, you know we’ve always been big fans of pasture-raised beef. It’s how we got started, and it’s still our go-to. But recently, we added a new option to the lineup—100% grass-fed and finished beef. And we’ve had a few folks ask: What’s the difference? So let’s break it down.

🐮 It All Starts the Same

No matter which option you choose from Midwest Prime, all our cattle are raised right here on our farm. They spend their early days out on open pasture, nursing and grazing alongside their mommas. We don’t rush the process—our calves stay with their moms until they’re about a year old. 

We don’t use hormones or antibiotics—ever. Just good grass, clean water, and the kind of care you give when you’re raising something with purpose.

🌿 Pasture-Raised: Our Original Favorite

Once our pasture-raised calves are weaned, they move to a big finishing pasture. They still have plenty of space to roam and graze, but we also give them access to a non-GMO grain blend.

It’s free-choice, meaning they eat it if they want to—but they’re still out on grass, enjoying the sunshine. That little bit of grain in their final months helps build marbling and tenderness. It’s the kind of beef you expect at a steakhouse—juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.

This is the beef our family eats most often. We love the flavor, the texture, the whole experience of it.

🌾 100% Grass-Fed & Finished: A New Option

For our grass-fed-only cattle, the process is a little different after weaning. Instead of moving to the finishing pasture, they stay with the herd—grazing alongside the cows and bulls on open pasture, just like before. In the winter, we feed hay.

The result is a leaner cut of beef with a slightly different flavor—earthy, clean, and great for folks who prefer a grass-fed lifestyle or are looking for something lower in fat.

We know some families are looking specifically for grass-fed and grass-finished beef, and we’re all about offering options that make sense for your goals and your kitchen.

👩🌾 So Which One Should You Pick?

Honestly? It comes down to personal preference.

• If you're after that rich, steakhouse flavor with great marbling—go with our pasture-raised beef.

• If you’re looking for something leaner, grass-only, and a little more rustic, try our 100% grass-fed option.

Both are raised with the same care, right here on our family farm, with full transparency and no weird stuff in the feed. Just clean, honest beef from animals that lived a good life.

Got questions? We’re happy to chat. Or better yet—try both options and see what your family loves best. Either way, you're getting beef you can feel good about.

SHOP ALL BEEF HERE!