Research to study effects of feeding beef with pasture and grain
Early results indicate that pasture-fed beef has less fat and higher conjugated linoleic acid.
16/03/05 Early results from a research at Virginia Tech's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences indicate that pasture-fed beef has less fat and higher conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). This indicates that it may be a healthier choice.
CLA is a combination of different types of fatty acids.. Animals change the chemical structure of these acids that are found in plants, in their digestive system. Studies are continuing on the value of CLA in human health.
The research is currently in preliminary stages. The goal is to develop innovative concepts and practices to enhance the efficiency, profitability, and sustainability of grassland-based beef production systems in the Appalachian Region, said Joseph P. Fontenot, the emeritus John W. Hancock Jr. Professor of animal science at Virginia Tech.
The research is partially supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Research Service along with funding from the universities involved, West Virginia University, the University of Georgia, and Virginia Tech.
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2005-03/vt-bfr031505.php
