Which brands of butter are grass-fed?

Recent research indicates that butter from grass-fed cows contains significantly higher levels of beneficial omega-3 fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) compared to conventional butter. For health-conscious consumers seeking these nutritional benefits, knowing which brands of butter are grass-fed is essential for making an informed choice at the grocery store.

Quick Summary

A guide to identifying popular grass-fed butter brands and understanding the various certifications and labeling nuances. Compare options like Kerrygold, Vital Farms, and Organic Valley, and learn the differences in farming practices to choose the best product for your dietary needs.

Key Points

• Kerrygold: A widely available, primarily grass-fed Irish butter known for its rich flavor and golden color from cows grazing most of the year.

• Vital Farms: An American-based company offering pasture-raised, grass-fed butter from a network of small family farms with high standards for animal welfare.

• Organic Valley: Provides both 'Pasture Butter' and 'Grassmilk®' which is certified 100% grass-fed and organic for maximum nutritional benefits.

• Labeling Matters: Distinguish between 'grass-fed' (can vary), 'pasture-raised' (access to fields), and 'organic' (free of antibiotics/pesticides) to make an informed choice.

• Nutritional Edge: The higher beta-carotene, omega-3, and CLA content in grass-fed butter, indicated by a deeper yellow color, provides a nutritional advantage over conventional butter.

• Costco Option: Kirkland Signature offers a budget-friendly grass-fed butter, typically sourced from New Zealand, providing a great value in bulk.

Top Brands of Grass-Fed Butter

Many brands now offer grass-fed butter, but the level of commitment to grass-feeding and other farming practices can vary. Here is a breakdown of some of the most recognized options available today.

Kerrygold Pure Irish Butter

One of the most widely available and well-known brands, Kerrygold is celebrated for its rich, golden color and creamy flavor. The butter is made from the milk of Irish cows that graze outdoors on green pastures for most of the year.

• Dietary Details: Kerrygold cows primarily eat natural grass, supplemented with a small amount of non-GMO feed during winter months when grazing isn't possible. This practice aligns with Ireland's 'Grass-Fed Dairy Standard'.
• Key Features: Its high butterfat content provides a richer flavor and superior texture for baking and cooking. It is available in both salted and unsalted varieties at most major grocery stores.

Vital Farms Pasture-Raised Butter

Vital Farms butter is made from cream sourced from cows that are pasture-raised on a network of small family farms across the United States. The brand focuses on humane animal treatment and sustainable farming practices.

• Dietary Details: Cows graze on open pastures for an average of 200 days per year, with supplementary feed making up the rest of their diet. The butter is also produced in the European style, with a high butterfat content of 83-85%.
• Key Features: Available in both salted and unsalted options, it is known for its creamy texture and fresh, golden appearance. The company is a Certified B Corporation, prioritizing social and environmental performance.

Organic Valley Pasture Butter & Grassmilk® Butter

Organic Valley is a cooperative of organic family farms that offers both a Pasture Butter and a Grassmilk® Butter. The Grassmilk® line is notable for being 100% grass-fed.

• Dietary Details: While all Organic Valley dairy cows are pasture-raised, the Grassmilk® products come specifically from cows fed an exclusive diet of fresh grasses and dried forages, with no grains whatsoever.
• Key Features: The 100% grass-fed Grassmilk® butter offers a distinct flavor and is certified by the Organic Plus Trust. It is also certified USDA organic, ensuring no antibiotics or artificial growth hormones.

Kirkland Signature Grass-Fed Butter

Costco's store brand, Kirkland Signature, offers a more budget-friendly grass-fed option. Its packaging is often compared to Kerrygold, and it provides a great value for bulk purchasing.

• Dietary Details: The butter is typically sourced from New Zealand, where a grass-fed dairy system is standard practice. While not 100% grass-fed, it adheres to the high pasture-based standards common in the region.
• Key Features: A cost-effective alternative for consumers seeking grass-fed butter in larger quantities without sacrificing quality. Its flavor profile is similar to other high-quality imported grass-fed butters.

Understanding the Labels: Grass-Fed vs. Pasture-Raised vs. Organic

When navigating the dairy aisle, understanding the nuances in labeling is crucial.

• "Grass-Fed": This term can be misleading as it doesn't always guarantee a 100% grass diet. Regulations can vary, and some "grass-fed" cows may still receive supplementary grain feed. The best products will specify "100% grass-fed" or reference a certification program.
• "Pasture-Raised": This term refers to the cow's access to pasture and is an indicator of humane and ethical farming practices. Pasture-raised animals naturally consume a large portion of their diet from grass, leading to a richer nutritional profile in their milk.
• "Organic": A USDA Organic seal indicates that the butter is free from antibiotics, artificial growth hormones, and pesticides. While organic farming encourages cows to graze, it does not guarantee a 100% grass-fed diet unless specified. Organic butter is still a step up from conventional options and often contains higher levels of beneficial fats.

Comparison Table of Popular Grass-Fed Butters

Brand	Source	Grass-Fed Commitment	Additional Certifications	Availability
Kerrygold	Ireland	Primarily grass-fed, supplemented with feed during winter.	Origin Green Sustainability Program.	Widespread, major grocery chains.
Vital Farms	US Family Farms	Pasture-raised, 90% grass-fed, with supplemental feed.	Certified B Corporation.	Widespread, including health food stores and major chains.
Organic Valley	US Family Farms	Offers both 'Pasture Butter' and 'Grassmilk®' (100% grass-fed).	USDA Organic, Organic Plus Trust.	Widespread, organic and health food sections.
Kirkland Signature	New Zealand	High pasture-based diet typical of New Zealand farms.	Varies, check packaging for details.	Costco stores.
Anchor	New Zealand	Primarily grass-fed, pasture-raised.	N/A, based on New Zealand standards.	Regional and online retailers.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

1. Nutrient Profile: For the highest levels of omega-3s and CLA, seek out products certified as 100% grass-fed or from cows with maximum grazing time. The deep yellow color is often a visual cue of high beta-carotene content, indicating a grass-rich diet.
2. Flavor and Texture: Grass-fed butter, particularly European-style with higher butterfat, offers a richer, creamier flavor that can vary seasonally depending on the forage. Taste testing different brands is the best way to find your favorite.
3. Certifications: If you are concerned about organic farming practices or GMOs, look for USDA Organic certification. For assurance of a 100% grass-fed diet, seek specific seals like the Organic Plus Trust 'Certified Grass-Fed' or similar third-party verification.
4. Price and Availability: While grass-fed butter often commands a higher price, it's becoming more accessible. Weigh the cost against your priorities for nutrition and ethical sourcing. Brands like Kerrygold and Costco's Kirkland are often more affordable and readily available than smaller specialty brands.
5. Ethical Considerations: Companies like Vital Farms, with their focus on pasture-raised conditions and B Corp status, offer a strong commitment to animal welfare and sustainable practices. Supporting brands that align with your personal values is an important aspect of your purchasing decision.

The Rising Popularity of Grass-Fed Dairy

In recent years, the market for grass-fed products has expanded significantly due to growing consumer demand for healthier, more transparent food sources. This movement is driven by an increased awareness of the nutritional benefits and the ethical implications of conventional farming. Many consumers are seeking out alternatives that they perceive as more natural and sustainable. This has led to the proliferation of brands catering to this niche market, from large international players like Kerrygold to smaller, organic-focused co-ops like Organic Valley. The availability and variety of grass-fed butters now reflect this consumer shift, moving from a niche specialty item to a mainstream grocery staple.

For more information on the health benefits of grass-fed dairy, you can explore resources like Perfect Keto's guide to the nutritional differences. This growing trend is a testament to the power of consumer choice in influencing agricultural practices and offering more options to those who prioritize nutrition and sustainability.

Conclusion

Choosing the best grass-fed butter depends on a combination of factors, including your priorities for nutritional benefits, flavor, cost, and ethical standards. Top brands like Kerrygold, Vital Farms, and Organic Valley each offer excellent grass-fed options with varying levels of commitment to grazing. By understanding the labels and what they signify, you can confidently select a butter that not only tastes great but also aligns with your health and environmental values. Always check the packaging for specific certifications and look for brands that offer transparency about their farming methods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kerrygold butter 100% grass-fed?

Kerrygold butter is not 100% grass-fed. While its Irish cows graze on pastures for most of the year, their diet is supplemented with feed during the winter months when grass is not abundant.

What is the difference between grass-fed and pasture-raised butter?

Grass-fed butter comes from cows primarily fed grass, but the percentage can vary. Pasture-raised indicates the cows have access to outdoor pastures, a factor that naturally leads to a diet rich in grass. For a product to be truly 100% grass-fed, look for specific certifications.

How can I tell if butter is truly grass-fed?

Look for specific certifications on the packaging, such as Organic Valley's '100% Grassmilk' or a third-party verified seal from organizations like Organic Plus Trust. A deep yellow color is also a visual indicator of high beta-carotene from a grass-rich diet.

Does grass-fed butter contain more nutrients?

Yes, butter from grass-fed cows is known to contain higher levels of beneficial nutrients compared to conventional butter. These include higher concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), vitamin K2, and beta-carotene.

Is Costco's Kirkland brand grass-fed butter good?

Costco's Kirkland Signature grass-fed butter is generally a good, cost-effective option. Sourced from New Zealand, it is made in a country with high grass-fed dairy standards, though it may not be 100% grass-fed.

Can I use grass-fed butter for baking?

Yes, grass-fed butter is excellent for baking. Many brands, like Kerrygold and Vital Farms, produce European-style butters with a higher butterfat content, which contributes to a richer flavor and superior texture in baked goods.

Why is grass-fed butter more expensive?

Grass-fed butter is often more expensive due to more labor-intensive, pasture-based farming methods and the seasonal nature of grazing. These practices are also associated with higher standards of animal welfare and environmental sustainability.