Given the economies of scale of the large farms used to supply the supermarket chains, the meat produced tends to be cheaper as the profit margin per animal is very small. To gain these economies in their costs large numbers of animals are placed into smaller feed lots and the animals are forced to eat grain and other unnatural feeds. Given the fact there are large numbers in a small space disease is controlled with the use of antibiotics.
FAQ
> Why is Supermarket meat cheaper?
> Are grass fed animals better?
Grass is the natural food of ruminants (cattle). They are not designed to eat large amounts of grain. A considerable number of studies show that grass-fed beef has less fat and more nutrients than the far more common and less expensive grain-fed meat. Various studies have found that grass-fed beef has: lower total saturated and monounsaturated fat; more heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids and a lower (healthier) ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids; higher levels of vitamin E, beta-carotene and B-vitamins; and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a nutrient associated with lower cancer risk. Eating grass-fed products also reduces exposure to traces of sub-therapeutic antibiotics and artificial hormones given to conventionally raised animals.
> Why does it matter if chemicals are used on farms?
By using chemicals we are interfering with the natural balance of life on the farm – in the soil, in the waterways, in the air and in the plants. By interfering with this balance we create an unsustainable environment. Chemical free keeps pesticides, chemical fertilizers and genetically modified foods off land, out of water and out of our bodies.
> Are grass-fed, pasture-based animals less damaging to the environment?
We think so. Well-managed grazing and grass-fed operations use fewer energy-intensive inputs, and by regularly moving animals to fresh pasture the quality and quantity of forage growth is improved. This helps conserve soil and preserves biodiversity and wildlife.
> When I eat meat, what should I look for?
If you buy less meat overall, you can afford healthier, “greener” meat, which can be more expensive. Always read the labels! Look for: Grass-fed, chemical free or pasture-raised meat, these have fewer antibiotics and hormones. Animals that live in more humane, open, sanitary conditions.
> What's wrong with hormones and antibiotics in meat?
No antibiotics or hormones means less unnecessary exposure, helps keep human medicines effective.
