Why pasture?
Grassland forms a vital part of the British countryside. It is an iconic symbol of our rural landscape, and for centuries has been the principal food source for cattle and sheep.
The Pasture-Fed Livestock Association champions the virtues of pastoral farming, providing a distinct identity for systems where animals eat only grass and forage crops their entire life. Food produced this way is much tastier and healthier for humans to eat than meat from animals fed grain.
Pasture or Grass?
Fields of just grass can provide all the nutritional components an animal needs. However, pastures which contain a variety of plant species, including herbs, wildflowers and clovers provide an even better diet – rich in essential vitamins and minerals drawn up from the soil below. They also support a diverse range of wildlife.
Some meat and dairy in the UK is already sold as ‘Grass-Fed’. However, this term can be used to describe products from animals that, as well as grazing, have also eaten cereals, manufactured feeds or by-products from food manufacturing.
Only meat and dairy displaying the Pasture Mark comes with a guarantee the animals have been fed a completely natural diet.
Benefits
There are significant benefits for people, animals and the countryside, from eating food derived from pasture farming.
