Is Grass-Fed Beef Better?

New York Times - WorldEN 4 min read 100% complete by Sachi Kitajima MulkeyJanuary 12, 2026 at 11:00 AM

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long article 4 min

A recent article in the New York Times, published January 12, 2026, examines the climate impact of grass-fed versus conventionally raised beef. While grass-fed beef may seem like a more environmentally friendly option, experts say the extended time it takes for these cows to reach market weight results in higher methane emissions. Cows, regardless of their diet, produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Conventionally raised cows are "finished" on grain in feedlots, reaching slaughter weight faster than grass-fed cows. Although feedlots raise animal welfare and pollution concerns, the longer lifespan of grass-fed cows contributes more to overall methane emissions, making the climate impact a complex issue.

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Key Player Opposition Context

University of Aberdeen 50% Scotland 50% United States 60% Peter Smith ×270%

Keywords

grass-fed beef 100% climate change 80% methane emissions 70% greenhouse gas 60% factory farms 60% animal welfare 50% beef production 50% environmental effects 40%

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Neutral

Score: -0.10

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Source

New York Times - World

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90%

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grass-fed beef climate change methane emissions greenhouse gas factory farms animal welfare beef production environmental effects

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