We now live in a world where sustainability takes precedence in everything we do! And there is now such a demand for food products nowadays which have been produced sustainably. Here at Lisdergan Irish Butchers, sustainability and being eco-friendly is extremely important to our business model and part of the reason for our success across Northern Ireland, Ireland and Great Britain. All of our Irish Sustainable Beef is Flax Fed and is sustainably farmed for natural goodness and flavour. Did you know that Flax is an Irish crop that has been part of our agricultural heritage for generations. According to the North Dakota State University (NDSU): Flax ‘can be used to fortify foods with omega-3 fatty acids. Research has shown that including flax in cattle diets increases the level of ALA, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, in the resultant meat and milk.’
In addition, the US National Public Radio (NPR), discuss in one of their articles how Jim Drouillard, who is a professor of animal sciences and industry at Kansas State University performed a series of tests over the past 10 years & found how ‘feeding flaxseed to cattle in the five months before slaughter reduced inflammation and the need for antibiotics, and offset some of the negative effects of a corn-based diet.’
Benefits of Flax Fed Beef:
- Better for Cattle
Did you know that flax is an anti-inflammatory and has significant benefits for cattle; reducing respiratory and joint ailments and therefore the need for veterinary treatment. Flax is fed to the cattle as part of a high welfare, grass-based system that enables the cattle to express their natural character both physically and genetically. Free to roam, rest and graze, they are happy and relaxed which translates to a 10% increase in marbling gene expression. The result is beef with superior flavour, texture and succulence.
- Better for the Planet
Flax presents a unique opportunity to reduce methane emissions by cattle, which are cited as making up more than 14% of global carbon emissions. Since it grows readily even in cooler, wetter climates, the carbon footprint of flax is much smaller than that of alternatives like soy. Combined with the natural carbon sequestration potential of a rotational grazing system, the addition of flax to cattle diets has potential to make beef a carbon negative product.
- Better for You
The right fatty acids are crucial for human health. Grain-fed beef is widely considered to be too high in Omega 6, which is linked to inflammation and may exacerbate conditions such as heart disease, arthritis and high blood pressure. Increased consumption of foods containing Omega 3 fatty acids lowers the risk of developing these condition, and alleviates symptoms. It’s also crucial for brain and join health. Flax fed beef is up to 100% higher in Omega 3 than grain fed, as well as being lower in Omega 6.
If you are interested in us supplying some of Lisdergan Butchery Flax Fed Sustainable Beef to your hotel or restaurant business, please contact us today as we supply it right across the UK & Ireland. Click here to contact us.
