Where do you buy grass fed butter?

As a food and nutrition expert with a keen interest in sustainable and healthy eating practices, I often get asked about where to find high-quality, nutritious food products. One such product that has gained popularity in recent years is grass-fed butter. Grass-fed butter is made from the milk of cows that have been raised on a diet of fresh grass, which is believed to result in a richer, more flavorful product with a better nutritional profile than butter made from cows fed a grain-based diet.

**Step 1: Identifying the Key Features of Grass-Fed Butter**

Before we dive into where to buy grass-fed butter, it's important to understand what sets it apart from conventional butter. Grass-fed butter is typically:


1. Higher in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The diet of grass-fed cows leads to a higher concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in their milk, which is then reflected in the butter.

2. Rich in Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA): CLA is a naturally occurring substance in the meat and dairy products of ruminant animals that are grass-fed. It has been linked to various health benefits.

3. Contains More Vitamins: Grass-fed butter tends to have higher levels of vitamins A and E compared to butter from grain-fed cows.

4. Natural Fat-Soluble Flavors: The diet of the cows can influence the taste of the butter, with grass-fed butter often having a more complex and rich flavor.

Step 2: Where to Buy Grass-Fed Butter

Now, let's explore the options for purchasing grass-fed butter:


1. Local Farmers Markets: One of the best places to find grass-fed butter is at your local farmers market. Here, you can often find small-scale producers who make butter from the milk of cows that are raised on pasture.

2. Specialty Grocery Stores: Stores that specialize in organic and natural foods are more likely to carry grass-fed butter. Look for brands that specify "grass-fed" on the label.

3. Online Retailers: The internet has made it easier than ever to find specialty food items, including grass-fed butter. Websites like Amazon, Thrive Market, and others offer a variety of brands that you can have delivered right to your doorstep.

4. Health Food Stores: Health food stores often carry a range of dairy products that are free from artificial hormones and antibiotics, and grass-fed butter is a common item on their shelves.
5. **Co-ops and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)**: Joining a co-op or a CSA can give you access to locally produced foods, including grass-fed butter.

**Step 3: Considerations When Buying Grass-Fed Butter**

When purchasing grass-fed butter, consider the following:

- Certifications: Look for certifications like USDA Organic, which ensures the cows were not given antibiotics or growth hormones and were fed an organic diet.
- Pasture-Raised: Ensure the label says the cows are pasture-raised, which means they have access to fresh grass throughout the grazing season.
- Ingredients: The ingredient list should be short and simple, ideally just "milk" or "cream."
- Sustainability: Consider the environmental impact of the product. Grass-fed farming practices are generally more sustainable than conventional farming.

**Step 4: The Example of Allgau Grass-Fed Butter**

Referring to the information provided, Allgau grass-fed butter, imported from Germany, is an example of a product that fits the criteria for grass-fed butter. Although not certified organic by the USDA, the cows are pastured for most of the year, and unlike some other brands, they do not receive grains during the winter months, consuming 100% hay instead. This practice aligns with the principles of grass-fed farming and can result in a product that is both delicious and nutritious.

In Conclusion

Finding and purchasing grass-fed butter is a matter of seeking out reputable sources that align with your values for health and sustainability. By considering local options, specialty stores, and online retailers, you can enjoy the benefits of this nutrient-rich food in your diet.

Like the name implies, this grass-fed butter is imported from Germany. Like Anchor butter, it is not certified organic by the USDA, but the cows are out on pasture the majority of the year. Unlike Kerrygold, Allgau cows do not receive grains during the winter months, instead getting 100% hay.