Epigenetic effects when cattle are fed grass vs corn & oilseed

 

Beef is clearly targeted by “climate change” advocates as negative for atmospheric gases (primarily methane, a by-product of ruminant digestion).    But the data for that has not convinced many people yet, especially once the earth’s carbon cycle (and its relationship to supporting life) is fully understood.  Consumption of meat shows us most consumers are not switching away from animal proteins.

However, the nutrition industry may exert more influence on the future of animal food production by weighing in on the differences between corn and oilseed fed ruminants, compared to grass and forage fed ruminants for slaughter animals.

A recent issue of Stockman Grass Farmer carried an article by Allen Williams, PhD with the following comparisons in desired vs undesired animal fats, as examples of how Epigenetic effects change the function of genes within DNA,  resulting from major and sustained changes in the animal environment.    Nutritional changes in ration composition is as big an environmental change as modern cattle have faced.

Phytonutrients are naturally occurring bioactive compounds derived from plants:  anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory  benefits to animals come from these compounds found in fresh forages at a level  5 to 20 times greater  than exist in the typical grain-based feedlot Total Mixed Ration.

Phytonutrient profiles are significantly higher in  grassfed beef  finished on diverse pastures than you will ever find in typical feedlot beef.  Likewise, the vitamin profile is superior.   The inference is simple:  Healthier soils growing healthy vegetation makes the ideal feed for any ruminant.  For humans the meat of these subsequently healthy animals is provably superior for our health.

Hippurate.   Improved gut microbial diversity and metabolism.    57% higher from grassfed beef.
Cinnamoylglycine.    Reduces Parkinson’s and cancer risks.     65% higher from grassfed beef.
Ergothioneine.    Aids immune function vs an array of diseases.    59% higher from grassfed beef.
4-Ethylphenylsulfate.   Strong anti-fungal activity.    85% higher from grassfed beef.
Histidine Betaine.    67% higher from grassfed beef  when grazed on healthy soils higher in soil fungi and microbial activity...   evidence of the benefit of animal exudates to soil biology.   
Dimethyl Sulfone.    Found in native plant species, 71% higher  demonstrating value of diversity in pasture seedings.        (Clearly, “animals are what they eat.”   All beef is NOT the same.)

As for Vitamin profiles, these studies found Vitamin E to be 64% higher, Vitamin A to be 34% higher, Vitamin C to be 33% higher, Vitamin B6 to be 27% higher, and Vitamin B3 25% higher.