Some facts about grass-fed organic dairy products
June 2025
Cows that are 100% grass-fed can live up to three times as long as grain-fed cows. (courtesy Family Features)
story courtesy of Family Features
It’s no secret that grocery store dairy sections offer several options today. One choice continuing to gain favor with some consumers is 100% grass-fed organic dairy products. Nutrition, environmental awareness and animal care are often reasons consumers choose grass-fed dairy products.
Globally, the 100% grass-fed dairy market is projected to continue growing. Some market experts predict annual growth rates as high as 22%. If you’re curious about 100% grass-fed organic dairy products, consider the following information provided by Maple Hill Dairy.
1. HONORING THE FARMERS
Unlike large-scale corporate dairy farms, most organic farms are small, family-owned operations dedicated to traditional, sustainable farming. Traditional small dairy farms have been disappearing, but 100% grass-fed organic dairy farms create a sustainable, viable path forward for family farmers who want to work in harmony with nature.
This natural approach to dairy is a “craft” process, favoring small family farmers willing to dedicate the extra focus and patience to produce organic products. These family farms are often then passed on to future generations.
2. COMMITMENT TO GOOD HEALTH
Most consumers don’t know the difference between traditional organic and 100% grass-fed organic dairy. One key distinction is the products’ nutritional composition; 100% grass-fed organic dairy provides a 50% healthier ratio of omega 3:6 and 40% higher levels of CLA fatty acids, which may support heart health and provide other health benefits.
3. HAPPY, HEALTHY COWS
Cows on a 100% grass-fed diet can live up to three times as long as grain-fed cows and are not subjected to unnatural diets, hormones or antibiotics. More time in pastures filled with lush grass means cows can roam, ruminate and graze on diverse, nutrient-rich grasses.
The result is often happier, healthier cows, which in turn results in a richer, better-tasting and more nutrient-dense milk.
4. SUSTAINABILITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT
Producing milk without grain or corn requires farmers to focus on regenerating soil and the soil life that supports everything else on the farm. In fact, the healthier the soil, the healthier the feed, so farmers have a natural incentive to be as regenerative as possible.
Regenerative grazing practices are a powerful and positive tool to improve land and the web of life on farms by actively restoring soil health, promoting biodiversity and reducing the environmental impact compared to conventional dairy. Well-managed grazing helps pull carbon from the atmosphere into the soil. In addition, healthier soil retains more water, reducing runoff and protecting water sources from agricultural pollution.
5. STRENGTHENING THE ORGANIC MARKET
Consumers are increasingly aware of their dairy product choices and how 100% grass-fed organic supports their health, farmers, animals and the planet. Some ways to support this continued growth include choosing certified 100% grass-fed organic dairy, advocating for regenerative farming and helping shape a more sustainable food system.
Learn more about 100% grass-fed organic dairy products at maplehill.com.